Michael Fitzmaurice (Roscommon-Galway, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank Mr. Healy for his presentation. My first question for the ICSA is on live exports. We had people before this committee who said there was a major opportunity for them in that regard, but is it sustainable to try to kill up to 40,000 cattle a week? Once farmers were at 27,000 to 30,000 a week, we were okay, but once we went over that number, there was a problem. Even allowing for the reduction in the size of carcase, do the witnesses believe that can continue?

I refer to Mercosur. I have seen a few groups come in here on that issue. In fairness to the committee, and I am not a member, or to the Minister, a person will be appointed by Europe to do the deal with the Mercosur countries, and whether we jump up, dance or whatever, they will want to know how many Mercedes or this, that and the other we will sell. If Mercosur comes in, more than Ireland will be in trouble in terms of beef. I would like to hear Mr. Healy's views on that.

What are the ISCA's views on the four movement rule and the 70 days requirement? If livestock come from an Irish Cattle Breeders Federation, ICBF, or a Bord Bia approved farm and go to another one on the 70th day, it should not be a problem. The witness spoke about anaerobic digestion.

I thank the Macra na Feirme witnesses for their presentation. I see they are promoting five-star bulls. The people on the suckler side of the world would have always contended that since we went down that road, the quality of our cattle, in terms of going for the Italian and other trades abroad, and EU grade cattle has deteriorated. Anyone who goes to a mart will tell them that. Why is Macra promoting that or is it just going along with the likes of the ICBF?

Will the witnesses tell me their view of the advantages of the beef forum, because it has no legal standing? What is their view on the feedlots? Do they believe that exporting slurry and derogations on dairy or beef farms, which may be helping feedlots, is a good idea and should it be continued?