Cathal Crowe (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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936. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his Department will incentivise farmers to consider live exports. [7492/22]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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This Government supports the live export of animals as it plays an important part in competition in the market-place for cattle in particular. In that context, however, government demands that the highest welfare standards apply.

I am committed to supporting the sustainable development of all farming sectors and ensuring there are a range of supports in place to do this. These supports are put in place with the aim of supporting the income of farming families and driving the sustainable development of the sector to ensure it`s long term ability to maintain competitiveness in an increasingly competitive global market. The cornerstone of this support is the basic payment under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). Ireland's CAP strategic plan was submitted for approval to the European Commission on 31 December 2021 with a view to commencing delivery in 2023. My Department further supports livestock farm businesses through market access initiatives, the application of official controls and other activities such as in relation to animal health surveillance and supports for disease eradication and control programmes.

The trade in animals is a matter for private actors.