This is a landmark victory for animals. It comes after months of relentless campaigning by Compassion in World Farming together with its partners Welfarm, FOUR PAWS, Ethical Farming Ireland, Quatre Pattes, Southampton Animal Action and Dorset Animal Action.

Animals are not cargo, and this decision will spare thousands of animals from gruelling sea journeys each year. The campaigning will not stop until this cruel trade is completely consigned to the history books.

With Brittany Ferries' withdrawal as of 1 September, Irish Ferries is now the only operator continuing to transport live animals from Ireland to France, including unweaned calves. On these brutal journeys, calves can go without food for 18 hours. This is in breach of EU animal welfare law.

That is why the tireless work to #BanLiveExports continues until this trade is consigned to history.