Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent) | Oireachtas source

There is a new recognition of all things Irish in Britain this week, except Irish cattle. Cattle born in Ireland but finished in Northern Ireland or Britain have no home. They are nomads and not recognised under law in Britain. We can export cattle to Benghazi but not to Birmingham. This is undermining the Common Market and the livelihoods of Irish beef farmers. In the context of Statutory Instrument 484 of 2013 in respect of the Common Market, the regulation will becomes law from 13 June. May we have a debate on it prior to its enactment and will the Minister, given his responsibility for protecting the Common Market, ensure we will be able to export cattle from this jurisdiction north of the Border in order that they can be slaughtered and enter the food chain? This is undermining the livelihoods of farmers and communities throughout the country.

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