The Atlantic M is back in Ireland to take another boatload of animals to Turkey. The vessel has five decks, four of which hold livestock, and can hold over 3,000 cattle.

One further load to Turkey is expected before Christmas. Overall, live cattle exports from Ireland this year will still be down by approximately 25% on last year. To date, in 2016 live exports stand at 125,303 head, down from 166,129 by this time last year. Exports to Turkey are welcome news in what has otherwise been a difficult year, due to the Brexit vote in June causing fluctuations in currency and a higher supply of cattle across the EU.

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In pictures: Weanlings being loaded for Turkey

Buying of cattle for Turkey winds down

Map: What other live export markets are open?