The withdrawal of a major calf export service has been described as a “setback” for the livestock trade by some of Ireland’s beef exporters.

It comes after Stena Line announced that it will withdraw its three-day Rosslare to Cherbourg service, with its last sailing arriving in Rosslare on 30 September 2025.

Stena Line is the largest transporter of live calves out of Ireland. However, two other companies still operate this route.

Cork Marts CEO Johnathan O’Sullivan said it is a “setback” if the same capacity can’t be met by other carriers.

“They are the main transporter of livestock out of Rosslare so any disruption to the free flowing of the animals will set us back, no doubt about it.

“It will be a fair loss for next springtime, particularly when the calf season starts again next year and in that peak time it will definitely have an impact.”

Exporters

However, Irish Farmers Association (IFA) dairy chair Martin McElearney there has been an increase in operations through Rosslare this year.

“Going back to last year, there was only boats going two or three days a week - this year, they’re probably going six to seven days a week,” he said.

In addition, McElearney said that there is time for the other operators to “pick up the slack”.

“The main point would be it’s not tomorrow; it’s in a couple of months,” he added.

“It’s disappointing, but the saving grace is two other exporters are still doing that route. They wouldn’t have the same capacity but they are still there.

“We can’t actually export any more calves a week than what are because the capacity isn’t there on the other side to rest. Boats weren’t full.”

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