'Animal welfare issues' revealed in documentary spark investigation into dairy industry 

Undercover filming by RTÉ recorded scenes at marts across Munster of calves being kicked and thrown around, tails being pulled and twisted, and sticks being used

Around 200,000 dairy bull calves are exported annually from Ireland for the veal market in Europe. The removal of milk quotas in 2015 saw the dairy industry expand in Ireland, resulting in increased calf births. Picture: iStock

An investigation into “animal welfare issues at marts” and “breaches of regulations on the transport of animals in mainland Europe” has brought the Irish dairy industry under renewed scrutiny.

RTÉ Investigates followed the export journey of bull calves born in Ireland and destined for the European market, uncovering the alleged ill-treatment of animals throughout the process.