Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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I am aware that a shipment of cattle left Ireland on 10th November 2023. Animals exported from Ireland must be transported in compliance with EU animal welfare rules, and with Ireland’s national rules for sea transport of livestock introduced by my Department, which go beyond EU rules.

Each loading of livestock onto dedicated vessels for export to non-EU countries is monitored and supervised by a team of experienced Department officials. The consignment of cattle referred to was also supervised in this manner.

There are contingency plans in place to cover conditions that may be encountered en route, for instance there is always more food and water placed aboard the vessel than would be required for the expected journey.

In the event that unexpected weather conditions arise en route, it is within the discretion of the vessel Captain to amend the course of the vessel as he or she sees fit in order to maximise the welfare, health and safety of the crew as well as the animals on board. The vessel referred to was temporarily laid at anchorage in a sheltered bay off the coast of France for this purpose.

The Department was in contact with the Captain to confirm this. It subsequently resumed and completed its voyage.

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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I am aware that an unidentified bovine carcase was found in France and can confirm that officials of my department have been in communication with both their French counterparts, and the Captain of the Sarah M, on this issue.

These communications are ongoing, however there is currently no evidence to link the carcase to the vessel.