The Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers' Association (ICSA) has called for clarity after Brittany Ferries decided to end its livestock transport services from Ireland to mainland Europe.

Brittany Ferries has not yet indicated when it will cease transporting Irish livestock but it is expected that this is likely to come into effect before calving season 2027.

The decision follows speculation over the weekend that the company was reviewing its livestock transport services from Ireland.

Over 200,000 calves have been exported from Ireland to date this year. Brittany Ferries is one of two ferry companies that facilitate the transport of Irish calves to mainland Europe.

ICSA

ICSA president Sean McNamara said the decision by Brittany Ferries 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.

The ICSA president added: "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."

Clarity

McNamara said that 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 [of agriculture] and the industry cannot simply assume that this gap will be filled.

"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," he said.