2798. Deputy Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the specific, measurable actions his Department is taking to identify, inspect and approve alternative vessel capacity ahead of the autumn weanling trade and next spring's calf export season; if he has engaged directly with alternative commercial ferry operators to ensure continuous access to the single market; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63570/26]

2799. Deputy Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will provide a full statistical breakdown of the total number of live cattle and calves exported from Ireland to date this year compared to the same period in 2025; the volume of these exports broken down by destination country; if his attention has been drawn to recent industry meetings in Athlone highlighting structural deficits in shipping infrastructure following the withdrawal of a service (details supplied) from transporting live animals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63569/26]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 2798 and 2799 together.

The full statistical breakdown of cattle exports by breed type, date of export, age and destination is available on my Department’s website at www.gov.ie/en/department-of-agriculture-food-and-the-marine/publications/cattle-aim/#bovine-birth-and-movements-monthly-reports.

I am very conscious of the vital role live exports play in stimulating live competition for domestic cattle and providing an alternative market outlet for farmers. It is with regret that I was informed by one ferry company of its decision, based on operational issues, to cease the transport of livestock from Rosslare to Cherbourg from September of this year.

The transport of live animals is a private commercial activity which is regulated by my Department in accordance with EU and national laws. My Department is ready to assess and approve vessels that might be made available for the transport of livestock out of Ireland. I would encourage all stakeholders to work collaboratively with a view to addressing this issue.