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Veterinary inspection fees on live exports of calves under three months of age are to be reduced.
Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed announced on Wednesday that the new fee will be €1.20 per animal, reduced from €4.80.
This reduction will bring greater equity in respect of fees payable per consignment in respect of calves, weanlings and adult cattle.
Fees payable on bovine animals over 3 months of age will remain at €4.80 per animal.
The reduced fee will apply from 1 February.
Price competition
Minister Creed said “I am very conscious of the vital role that live exports play in stimulating price competition for domestic cattle and providing an alternative market outlet for farmers.
"In relation to veterinary inspection fees on live exports, I accept that the fees payable on younger bovines has been somewhat disproportionate on a consignment basis relative to older animals.
"I have now moved to correct that anomaly and I am satisfied that this new arrangement is more equitable and should help to encourage exports."
Total live exports of cattle amounted to 145,575 in 2016.
The Minister for Agriculture added, "The continental market for young calves has traditionally been important for dairy farmers, providing an important source of income and underpinning the market for such stock. The export of these calves reduces the potential for over-supply of adult cattle at a later stage, which would put the beef market under pressure”.
He also said that his Department will issue a trader notice with the revised schedule of fees and levies relating to the live exports of animals.
There are no changes in respect of the disease eradication and Bord Bia levies which continue to apply as heretofore.
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