Written answers

Tuesday, 6 July 2010

Department of Agriculture and Food

Live Exports

10:00 am

Photo of Denis NaughtenDenis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 574: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the steps he is taking to enhance the live cattle trade to Britain; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29377/10]

Photo of Brendan SmithBrendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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The live export trade complements the processed beef trade and is an important component of our meat and livestock industry. Overall live exports in 2009 increased by 94% on 2008 levels. In the same period, exports to the UK increased by 159%, with those to Great Britain increasing by 440%, and those to other destinations by 74%. Up to the end of week 25 of 2010, live exports were 49% ahead of the levels achieved during the same period in 2009, reflecting exceptionally strong demand for all classes of cattle in our main markets. Again exports to Great Britain grew significantly above those to other destinations, increasing by some 118%, while those to Northern Ireland increased by 78% and those to all other destinations by 40%. The weakening value of the euro against sterling offers opportunities to Irish beef exporters and there are indications that the live trade to Britain will increase in the short term as domestic demand there is expected to outstrip supply. Bord Bia continues to work closely with the industry in monitoring and developing emerging opportunities for Irish livestock in the United Kingdom, the Continent and international markets. Its activities include ongoing contact with leading retailers in Britain to establish their interest in cattle born in Ireland and finished in Britain.

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