The ISCPA is urging the Government to put an end to live animal exports, citing the recent undercover footage revealing the abuse of Irish bull calves. The footage captured calves being mistreated at a cattle export facility in Co Kerry, sparking outrage and concern.
The ISCPA believes that such practices are tarnishing the reputation of the Irish dairy industry and the country as a whole. They are calling for a complete halt to live exports, advocating for rearing and slaughter to be carried out locally in Ireland.
The charity also highlighted the surplus of male calves in the dairy industry, with approximately 200,000 calves expected to be deemed unusable this year. This surplus has led to an increase in live exports, with record numbers projected for 2024.
Ethical Farming Ireland has joined the call for action, emphasizing the need for industry accountability and improved welfare standards for calves. Sinn Féin’s Martin Kenny has also echoed the need for alternative solutions to benefit Irish farmers.