Dutch to fine Irish carriers transporting unweaned calves
The Dutch Food and Safety Authority is imposing fines on Irish transporters for failing to feed unweaned calves during long sea and road journeys. The move aims to improve animal welfare standards for the 200,000 calves exported annually for veal production.
Why it matters
This reflects growing international pressure to enforce stricter animal welfare regulations in the agricultural supply chain.
Agriculture & Consumer Affairs Correspondent
The Dutch Food and Safety Authority (NVWA) has announced that it will impose fines on four Irish carriers transporting unweaned calves to the Netherlands.
The move is in response to claims the animals are not fed during the sea crossing, even though they are legally required to be fed during transport.
The Netherlands is a key destination for Irish dairy calves sold to mainland Europe, with around 200,000 animals leaving the country every year.
They are mostly used for veal production, and are usually transported via sea from Ireland to France, before making the rest of the journey via road.
Animal welfare groups claim this situation can lead to calves becoming weak, suffering from dehydration and hypoglycaemia, and even dying en route.
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