EU Parliament wants better protection for transported animals
Infringements range from 0% to 16.6%
27 January 2022
1 minute read
By: Members of European Parliament want stricter controls, tougher penalties and shorter traveling times to increase animals' welfare across the European Union, as long journeys create stress and suffering for farm animals.
Every year, millions of animals are transported long distances across the EU and to non-EU countries to be bred, reared or slaughtered, as well as for competitions and the pet trade. From 2009 to 2015, the number of animals transported within the EU increased by 19% - from 1.25 billion to 1.49 billion.
The numbers for pigs, poultry and horses increased, whereas those for cattle, sheep and goats decreased. Over the same period, the number of consignments of live animals in the EU increased from about 400,000 to 430,000 per year.
There are already EU rules for the protection and welfare of animals during transport. However, a resolution adopted by MEPs on 14 February calls for better enforcement, sanctions and reduced journey times.
