Ms Paula Barry Walsh:

Issues were raised around the live export of animals, the export of meat, why such exports are needed, and the relationships around the trade. The Minister has put forward an action plan regarding support for market access. Within that plan there is a willingness to expand the markets for both meat and live animals. There is a dual process going on. The Department is engaged in opening the markets and negotiating the most favourable certificates it can. That enables the trade. At that point the industry itself responds to the market forces. If there is a meat trade, the industry will avail of it. Equally, if there is a live animal trade, it will be availed of. Sometimes the balance between the two fluctuates. It differs wildly between countries. That is the way it is approached. We enable trade and industry responds and is active commercially.

On the issue of the number of exporters, it is a small number. There are 15 or fewer, but behind them is an industry of assembly owners, transporters, haulage companies and various other groups, so the trade does support the agriculture sector and is of value to the sector more widely, not just to the livelihood of 15 people.

Reference was made to a representative organisation for exporters. In terms of its value for such a small number, the feeling is that it would have value if exporters got together, had a person who could speak about their welfare standards, make their case and engage with the industry in other countries. We see that value in exporters being active to try to expand the lairage capacity available in Cherbourg.

Another query was raised about the long trips made and the truth surrounding the issues raised. I will hand over to Mr. Doyle to answer it.