Ireland Bars Docking of Aged Livestock Carrier

A livestock carrier built in 1979 has been roaming the Mediterranean near southern Europe, currently without a destination after being denied entry to Ireland.

Scheduled to dock at Greenore port on Ireland's northeast coast on April 30 to pick up cattle for export, the Sarah M was blocked from entering due to its recent registration with the Russian Maritime Register of Shipping, which made it subject to European Union sanctions. This information was brought to the authorities' attention by the NGO Ethical Farming Ireland, resulting in the prohibition of the ship's entry into Ireland.

This year, Ethical Farming Ireland has been notably active in maritime news. The NGO sent a letter to Irish Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue in February, urging for reforms in the maritime exportation of animals. This action followed a collaborative investigation with the NGO Israel Against Live Shipments, which examined the health of animals both before departure and upon arrival.

The letter highlighted the adverse conditions affecting the animals: "Poor nutrition, overcrowded pens, stress, lowered immunity and humidity will all have contributed to rapid spread [of ringworm] amongst the young bulls."