Irish calves could be taking to the skies in 2021. The Irish Farmers Journal understands that the option of flying calves to destinations such as the Netherlands, France and Spain is being closely considered.

Teagasc has been tasked by stakeholder group, the Calf Welfare Forum, to examine the feasibility of air travel.

Flying calves out of the country, at a cost of approximately €70/head, would be much faster, but twice as expensive as by land and sea.

Brexit threatens the overland routes that see hauliers use Wales and England as a landbridge.

Serious disruption is expected at UK ports from January, whether a trade deal is agreed or not. Some 170,000 Irish calves were exported in 2019 but COVID-19 reduced calf exports this year to 120,000.

Travelling times for direct shipping routes to France are close to the 18-hour maximum time allowed without lairage.

It is understood that Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue met exporters and shipping representatives last week, and the importance of shipping cattle as a primary export route was stressed.