Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

The Deputy is aware of our personal views with regard to live exports. On the basis of the situation that arose I had to look at every available option, be it a land bridge through the United Kingdom or supporting and facilitating the reintroduction of the crossing. I spoke with the relevant Minister and Minister for State in London and we have been facilitated at Commission level.

There may be difficulties with the land bridge, particularly the question of whether operators of the ro-ro between here, the United Kingdom and mainland Europe would be prepared to carry livestock. The farming organisations and some welfare people have raised problems about this. If I had no option I would have to pursue it more vigorously.

We have facilitated the reintroduction of the ferry service from Wexford to mainland Europe which hopefully will address the important livestock industry and perhaps remove the necessity of following up the land bridge.

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