The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) has confirmed the deaths of seven animals during a live export.

DAFM said "seven animals died or were euthanised" during a January 2026 sailing.

Speaking to Agriland, a spokesperson for DAFM said: "This mortality rate is higher than usual.

The spokesperson added that any animals identified as sick or injured "received immediate and appropriate veterinary care and treatment" during the journey.

January voyage

DAFM confirmed that the deaths occurred upon a department-approved vessel bound for Algeria with a "consignment of cattle".

According to the spokesperson, the vessel, which departed from Waterford Port on January 12, 2026, was accompanied by a department veterinarian.

The vet accompanies the vessel "to assist and supervise animal welfare standards during the journey", according to the department.

By the end of the journey, the vet's report indicated that 24 animals had either developed an illness, or incurred injuries during the voyage, with the seven deaths stemming from this figure.

Following the deaths, the department has said it "reviews its processes and procedures around the transport of animals by dedicated vessel aligned to relevant EU and National Regulations on an ongoing basis".

Live exports

Separately the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon has also clarified the regulations that govern live exports.

In response to a question raised by Fianna Fáil TD, Erin McGreehan, Minister Heydon said the export of animals is a private commercial activity which is regulated by DAFM in accordance with EU and National Regulations.

The minister outlined to the deputy that all animals are assessed for their fitness to travel by department veterinary inspectors, before being certified and approved for transport.

He also said that animals can only be transported on a dedicated livestock vessel which has been approved by DAFM in accordance with the provisions of S.I. No. 356/2016 - Carriage of Livestock by Sea Regulations 2016. 

Minister Heydon said: "The provisions of this regulation provide for more stringent controls than the EU regulation."

These include having sufficient crew members on board who are competent in animal husbandry.

Minister Heydon also detailed that the vessel must be checked by the department’s veterinary inspectors before, during, and after loading of animals, for any issues which could affect the welfare of the animals transported.

He added: "Live exports are an important part of Ireland’s livestock industry, they play a significant role in stimulating price competition and providing an alternative market outlet for farmers.

"My department facilitates this trade, recognising its importance to the agri-food sector, while placing a strong emphasis on the welfare of all animals being transported."