ICSA president Sean McNamara has said confirmation that Brittany Ferries intends to end its livestock transport services from Ireland to mainland Europe is a serious concern for Irish livestock farmers. "Live exports are a vital part of the Irish livestock sector. They provide an important outlet for farmers and help ensure there is genuine competition for Irish stock. Anything that reduces competition or limits export options is bad news for farmers. We cannot allow farmers to be left with fewer outlets for their stock," he said.

 Continuing, Mr McNamara said, "Any reduction in transport capacity to mainland Europe has the potential to disrupt the trade, particularly for calf exports during the spring season. It is essential that exporters continue to have reliable and cost-effective access to European markets."

 Mr McNamara said ICSA would be seeking urgent clarification on the timeline for the withdrawal of the service and on what alternative shipping arrangements will be available. "The Department and the industry cannot simply assume that this gap will be filled. We need to ensure there is sufficient capacity to maintain the live export trade and maintain access to key European markets. This is an issue that requires immediate attention. Irish farmers cannot afford to see essential export routes reduced without a clear plan to ensure there are viable alternatives."