This is a very emotive subject. As a recognised Charitable Body we cannot get involved in protests etc. While the ideal method would be for all cattle to be slaughtered in Ireland that is not the situation here and we recognise that. Our Inspector inspects all cattle as they are being loaded on the ships and he has also inspected the ships themselves. Over the years he has noticed a vast improvement in conditions. The shipping companies are also interested in the welfare of the cattle and cooperate fully with us. We are satisfied that all precautions are being taken by the exporters. We also realise that Ireland is an agricultural country and farmers depend on their cattle being exported.

Marts

We visit the marts on a regular basis and find that conditions there have greatly improved over the years.