Additional daily capacity for 400 animals at Cherbourg has been approved by the French authorities. The news was welcomed by Minister of Agriculture Michael Creed.

"Live exports are a critical part of the infrastructure of our livestock industry," Creed said. "They play a significant role in stimulating price competition and provide an alternative market outlet for farmers. The announcement today of additional daily capacity for 400 animals is most welcome. Based on current ferry sailing schedules, this provides increased capacity of some 1,200 animals per week."

The provision of lairage facilities is a matter for private industry, but staff from the Department have had ongoing contact with the exporters in Ireland, lairage owners in France and the French authorities in recent months to explore options to facilitate further trade.

The minister had also raised the matter with the French Minister for Foreign Affairs when they met in Dublin recently.

"One of the constraints faced by exporters has been the limited lairage capacity at Cherbourg," Creed said.

Expansion

"I welcome the initiative of the lairage owner in France to expand his facilities which has now been approved by the French authorities. I would like to acknowledge the responsiveness of the French authorities, who understanding the significant importance of this route for Irish exports, have moved quickly to approve the facility. This will provide some welcome additional capacity for those exporting animals to Europe."

Creed also emphasised the absolute need for exporters to ensure strict adherence to the transport regulation to ensure the welfare of the animals at all times.

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