WRITTEN QUESTION E-0786/98

by Johanna Boogerd-Quaak (ELDR) to the Commission

(18 March 1998)

Subject: Threats to small-scale traditional cattle-markets in the Netherlands and elsewhere in Europe arising from the implementation of Directive 97/12

It appears that the introduction as of 1 July 1998 of Directive 97/12(1) on health problems affecting intra-Community trade in bovine animals and swine is proving unintentionally damaging to small-scale traditional cattle markets in some EU Member States. Measures which are entirely justified from a veterinary and health point of view cannot be applied by these markets, so that they are threatened with closure. Other historic markets like those threatened with closure in Schagen and Purmerend (Netherlands) can be found elsewhere in Europe.

1. Is the Commission aware of the threat which the stricter rules under Directive 97/12 may pose to small traditional cattle markets in Europe which do not have the economic resources to comply with the more stringent rules, and may have to close in consequence?

2. What steps does the Commission intend to take to reverse the damaging effects on certain small-scale cattle markets which for historical, cultural or tourism-related reasons fulfil an important role for local communities?

3. Can the Commission say whether existing structural fund targets currently offer ways of encouraging small-scale traditional cattle markets to fulfil European requirements in the veterinary, environmental, public health and animal health areas?

4. Does the Commission consider the new budget heading on a broad rural policy, currently being completed, which aims to make more room for cultural tourism and rural leisure pursuits, as a possible basis for a policy aimed at preserving small-scale traditional cattle markets in Europe?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

(8 May 1998)

1. Directive 97/12/EC was adopted by the Council to replace conditions established by Directive 64/432/EEC concerning intra-Community trade in bovine animals and swine(2). A major objective of an up-dated legislation was to reduce the risk of spreading animal diseases. This included diseases such as bovine tuberculosis and bovine brucellosis which can affect man. During the past 10-15 years the number of cattle markets had gradually decreased in the Member States. This trend reflected the precautions being taken to avoid spread of infectious diseases via trade in live animals passing through markets. The new rules reflect the desire to provide good conditions for live animals placed in an unusual environment and to enhance disease protection measures for man and animals. As in all sectors of Community activity, modernisation can have economic consequences.

2. It is the opinion of the Commission that activities at historic sites and activities related to cultural events and tourist attractions must pay due attention to the way animals should be treated in a humane modern society. This also applies when animals are being traded. Support from the Community for maintaining historic sites, cultural events and tourist attractions can only be covered by measures under the appropriate policies.

3. The existing regulations governing support for the marketing and processing of agricultural products (Council Regulation (EC) 951/97)(3) would allow for aid to traditional cattle markets for investment in marketing facilities to bring them in line with Community requirements in the areas of animal health and welfare, public hygiene, and provided the items aided did not benefit sales directly to the consumer, that is the retail sector.

However, it is a matter for Member States to make such traditional cattle markets a priority for aid either under Regulation (EC) 951/97 or an operational programme such as exists for the objective 1 and 5b areas of the Community. Aid for such activities could also be undertaken by Leader groups in the context of a development plan for their areas.

4. Under draft proposals for a new rural development policy there is a greater emphasis on rural heritage, culture and tourism, but again it will be a matter for Member States to decide the priority to be given to activities such as traditional cattle markets.

(1) OJ L 109, 25.4.1997, p. 1.

(2) OJ 121, 29.7.1964.

(3) OJ L 142, 2.6.1997.