Attempts have been made to lobby the Irish Government to prevent the export of cattle to non-EU countries. This would not be in the best interests of our beef farmers.

Irish farmers adhere to the strictest animal welfare policies and it is not in our nature or commercial interests to see animals mistreated.

The surge in live exports has helped deliver confidence in the traditionally low-income suckler sector at a time when there is great uncertainty in agriculture and the economy.

Countries such as Turkey have a major deficit in beef production and despite its attempts to increase its national herd, it needs to meet the demand with imported livestock.

Veterinary officials from countries including Turkey have visited Ireland and made it clear that public perception is as important as strict animal welfare.