Cattle exports to resume

The Minister for Agriculture has announced the resumption of live cattle exports, suspended because of the foot-and-mouth crisis.

Minister Joe Walsh said an agreement had been reached with Spain to allow the direct shipment of younger animals to commence again immediately.

He added that there had been "high level contact" with Lebanon regarding the reopening of this important market.

He said he was hopeful of an early and positive outcome to this approach to allow the resumption of this trade.