Madam President, I want in the first instance to refute the suggestion that farmers and those involved in the livestock industry are not conscious of the need for animal welfare. The very ethos and profession of farming is one of concern for animals and for good livestock husbandry.

I suppose in an ideal world we would all prefer a situation where there would be no need for live exports, where our farm animals would be slaughtered and processed in the country of origin and which, of course, would have the result of creating jobs in the processing industry. In Ireland, may I say, insofar as we can we encourage that particular process. There are, however, countries where live exports is not a problem. There are countries as well that do not have a high dependence on agriculture. In Ireland our economy is agriculture-based. A very high percentage of farm income is derived from livestock production. It should be noted as well that not all animals are suitable for slaughter and a very high percentage of Irish exports are animals which are exported under humane conditions for finishing in other countries.

I should say as well that the Irish Government imposes very strict regulations on live exports. So by all means let us upgrade and carefully monitor the conditions for live exports. Let us improve our regulations on animal welfare. But from our point of view exports are necessary for competition in the broader livestock sector. I would appeal this morning for the application of common sense in relation to the matter which is before us for discussion.

It is ironic that Recital D should refer to the need to provide a dense network of abattoirs while at the same time EEC regulations have resulted in the closure of slaughtering facilities in my own country. It is even more ironic to note Recital E in relation to transport and the facilities of the shipping companies, whose owners are expressing concern. If they are expressing concern in relation to export conditions then let them upgrade their facilities to ensure that the livestock are exported under humane conditions.

Paragraph 7 acknowledges the financial hardship and recommends compensation. It would, in my view, be unrealistic ...

(The President cut the speaker off)