WRITTEN QUESTION E-2810/99

by Cristiana Muscardini (UEN) to the Commission

(18 January 2000)

Subject: Protocol on improved protection and respect for the welfare of animals

In May 1999, the above, legally binding protocol entered into force. The protocol recognises that animals are sentient beings and requires that the Community take their welfare needs in particular areas fully into account.

1. What steps is the Commission taking to implement the protocol requirements?

2. Does the Commission intend to submit proposals on intensive pig farming, as required by Council Directive No 91/630(1) which set a deadline of 1 October 1997?

3. Does it intend to propose a gradual abolition of gestation crates for pregnant sows, in view of the recommendations of the Scientific Veterinary Committee, according to which individual enclosures which do not allow the sow to turn round easily should be banned?

4. Does it plan to propose a radical change in policy whereby trade in meat and carcasses would take the place of the long-distance transport of live farm animals?

In this regard, it should be noted that the protocol defines animals as sentient beings and not as goods. Clearly, therefore, live animals should no longer be subject to Community rules on free trade in goods.

(1) OJ L 340, 11.12.1991, p. 33.

Answer given by Mr Byrne on behalf of the Commission

(23 February 2000)

The Protocol in question recognises that animals are sentient beings and since its adoption the Commission has focused increasingly on accommodating the animal protection dimension in its policies. In the year 2000 it intends to present far-reaching proposals concerning animal welfare in the field of pig breeding and animal transport.

Notably, it will present a proposal concerning the protection of pigs in intensive rearing systems with a view to amending Council Directive 91/630/EEC of 19 November 1991 laying down minimum standards for the protection of pigs.

The Commission's project may include provisions mandating the keeping of sows in groups and the establishment of distinct areas in which they can behave naturally.

The Commission may propose applying these measures as soon as possible in the case of future holdings. The time limit for imposing the rules on existing farms will be discussed by the experts, who will notably have to consider the socio-economic consequences.

Community legislation on animal protection during transport is based on the results of scientific research and practical experience, both of which indicate that, provided certain animal protection requirements are met, the transport of animals is feasible.

However, Council Directive 91/628/EEC as amended by Directive 95/29/EEC of 29 June 1995 on the protection of animals during transport(1) needs to be reappraised on the basis of more recent information.

The Standing Veterinary Committee recently appointed a working party to study certain difficulties in applying this Directive.

It is possible that the Commission may draft an amendment to existing Community legislation during the year 2000 on the basis of the working party's conclusions.

Besides, the Commission is preparing a project based on the opinion of the Scientific Committee on Animal Welfare, laying down standards for the mechanical ventilation of animal transport vehicles. This proposal is scheduled for the first half of the year 2000.

(1) OJ L 148, 30.6.1995.