Joanna Lumley Among Celebrities Slamming Brittany Ferries Decision on Livestock Exports from Rosslare

22nd March 2025

Jehan Ashmore

Livestock: Animal rights NGOs have expressed concerns after Brittany Ferries announced it is to resume this month live animal exports from Rosslare to Cherbourg. This will involve ropax Cotentin, as above, at the Irish port. Among 100-plus celebrity signatories were actors Pauline McLynn and Joanna Lumley, TV presenter Chris Packham, broadcasters, activists, and MEPs. The French company joins Stena Line and Irish Ferries in transporting live animals to mainland Europe. Credit: Jehan Ashmore

Celebrities Pauline McLynn and Dame Joanna Lumley are among the names listed on an open letter to Brittany Ferries urging them to reverse a decision to resume transporting livestock from Ireland to France this month.

The Breton-based ferry operator, reports the Wexford People, is to resume transporting livestock after some 30 years using the MV Cotentin from Rosslare Europort to Cherbourg, Normandy. Afloat adds the ferry is of a 'ropax' design, built primarily for freight vehicle transport along with passenger accommodation on the overnight 16-hour, 30-minute route connecting continental Europe.

In a statement issued by Brittany Ferries, they said that the decision "follows 18 months of close engagement with the Department of Agriculture, Food, and Marine and relevant authorities to ensure that the highest animal welfare standards are prioritised at every stage of the journey”.

The ferry firm added, "Animal welfare is of paramount importance to Brittany Ferries. The Cotentin has been specifically selected for this service, as it is oriented towards freight transport and equipped to provide the best possible care for animals during transit.

“It is important to note that Brittany Ferries will not transport animals destined for slaughter. All livestock carried on board will be transported in accordance with strict regulatory guidelines, ensuring their health and well-being are protected.

“We remain committed to working closely with relevant authorities and our partners to uphold the highest animal welfare standards, reflecting our deep-rooted agricultural heritage and dedication to responsible transport practices.”

Despite the ferry operator’s statement, several animal welfare Non Governmental Organisations (NGO) have expressed concerns, including Ethical Farming Ireland, Compassion in World Farming, Eyes on Animals, and L214.

More from the regional newspaper on the announcement by Brittany Ferries, which is to become the third ferry operator, joining Stena Line and Irish Ferries in the transportation of live animals to mainland Europe.

Published in Brittany Ferries

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About The Author

Jehan Ashmore

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Jehan Ashmore is a marine correspondent, researcher and photographer, specialising in Irish ports, shipping and the ferry sector serving the UK and directly to mainland Europe. Jehan also occasionally writes a column, 'Maritime' Dalkey for the (Dalkey Community Council Newsletter) in addition to contributing to UK marine periodicals.

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