In reaction to our yearly investigative reports and letters of complaint regarding Irish exports of unweaned calves to mainland Europe, the Irish authorities asked to virtually meet with us finally. Together with representatives from Ethical Farming Ireland, CIWF UK, ISPCA and the Swedish Association for the Protection of Animals we spoke about the long distance journeys Irish calves go on to reach mainland Europe, and the fact that the required EU feeding intervals for them are routinely breached. They did not agree that violations were taking place, but did speak about taking better care that journey logs were correctly filled out and checked afterwards and we were informed research is being conducted into how calves could be fed on board. There was no confirmation of when the research will be complete or if it will be successful and it seems that there is every intention to continue the export of unweaned calves regardless. We are not very satisfied but will continue being in dialogue with them until concrete changes are finally put into place.
