Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)
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Question 175: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food the steps she intends to take to promote the export of live sheep; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26405/05]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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The number of sheep exported live from Ireland in recent years has increased from approximately 35,000 head in 2003 to 58,000 head in 2004, with a figure of 65,000 head having been exported to date in 2005. This compares to a total of 3.25 million sheep slaughtered at approved export plants in 2004. The export trade in live sheep consists in the main of animals destined for slaughter in plants in Northern Ireland. All other exports are subject to the application of residency and standstill certification requirements on the movement of animals from farm to farm. My Department is seeking to improve these provisions, which are required under EU legislation, and has written to the EU Commission seeking an amendment that should meet the concerns of farmers and exporters. The Department is awaiting a response from the Commission.