Live animal exports must continue, says government Minister.

Michael Healy Rae, Minister of State with responsibility for Forestry, Farm Safety and Horticulture, has told the secondary school students that live exports are an issue of fundamental importance to him.

Speaking at Agri Aware Farm Walk and Talk series at Salesian Agricultural College, in Pallaskenry, Co. Limerick, the Minister commented, “Whatever you’ll listen to and whatever type of things you will hear going on, always remember when you’re living on an island, you have to export. The best way to export is exporting live,” he said.

“I will not mince my words on this. We’re an island nation. I really believe in our live exports, it’s so important to have as much outlet and sales as we can have around the world”.

He expressed confidence in those involved in the live animal exports including shippers, buyers and livestock hauliers.

In response to the negative image of the trade, he said there were isolated incidents but coverage was exaggerated and hyped.

The Minister said that there will always be those opposed to live animal exports.

His view is that the world needs food to be produced and that as an island nation, Ireland must continue to play a role in live animal exports.

A report published in 20024 by Bord BIA, Irish state agency, indicated that the value of live exports of animals from Ireland stood at €340 million during 2024, an increase of almost 30% from 2023 levels.

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