Calf exporters do not expect their trucks to be carried on the new ferry boat when it starts sailing between Rosslare and Cherbourg in early January.

The indications they have received is that the operator, Stena Line, believes that existing capacity from Rosslare is sufficient for the number of calf trucks that will require transport.

There would be a financial cost on the operator in having the boat inspected and approved for carrying calves and some modifications to vehicle lanes and markings would likely be required.

Nonetheless, were demand to increase, the boat would probably be suitable. For example, it has cabins for drivers accompanying trucks. Most dry freight container loads are unaccompanied on ferries.

Regarding next spring, calf exporters don’t fear major problems with ferry capacity or lairage capacity, or with meeting welfare requirements.