Midlands–North-West MEP Ciaran Mullooly has called on the Government to address concerns about ferry capacity for Irish livestock exports.
The Independent Ireland representative said Brittany Ferries’ withdrawal from carrying live animals from Ireland could leave exporters dependent on a single operator for suitable ferry services to mainland Europe during the 2027 export season.
He urged the Government to engage with ferry companies and exporters, assess the capacity at risk and develop a plan to maintain access to continental markets.
Mullooly’s call follows a response from the European Commission to North Tipperary farmer Brendan Kennedy, who raised the issue in August.
According to Mullooly, the Commission indicated that Member States can consider justified public-service arrangements or compensation under EU rules to protect essential maritime connections.
He said the response placed responsibility for examining possible measures with the Irish Government, rather than committing the Commission to establishing or funding another service.
“Exporters need certainty, particularly in light of the reported withdrawal of a ferry operator from livestock transport,” he said.
Mullooly also confirmed his support for a European Parliament petition submitted by Mr Kennedy concerning livestock ferry capacity.
