91997E1939

WRITTEN QUESTION E-1939/97 by Kirsten Jensen (PSE) and John Iversen (PSE) to the Commission (4 June 1997)

Subject: Swine fever

On Monday, 12 May 1997, Dutch newspapers carried reports on the deplorable conditions in which pigs suffering from swine fever are kept. Pigs had fallen through a hatchway in their sty into their own excrement, in which they drowned. A photographer had his camera taken off him by the police.

Does the Commission believe that sick animals should be treated decently?

Will it take the initiative and submit a Green Paper on animal welfare in the EU?

Does it intend to investigate why the public is not allowed to find out about such conditions and why the Dutch photographer was not allowed to publish his pictures?

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission (26 June 1997)

The only Community legislation currently in force concerning the welfare of pigs on farms is provided by Council Directive 91/630/EEC, of 19 November 1991 laying down minimum standards for the protection of pigs ((OJ L 340, 11.12.1991. )). The Annex to the Directive (Chapter I, point 6) requires that all pigs reared in groups or in stalls must be inspected by the owner or the person responsible for the animals at least once a day. Any pig which appears to be ill or injured must be treated appropriately without delay. It should be possible, wherever necessary, to isolate sick or injured pigs in adequate accommodation with dry, comfortable bedding. Veterinary advice must be obtained as soon as possible for pigs which are not responding to the stock-keeper's care.

In relation to future developments with regard to the welfare of pigs, the Commission would draw attention to Article 6 of Directive 91/630/EEC which requires the Commission to submit a report to the Council drawn up on the basis of an opinion from the scientific veterinary committee on the welfare aspects of intensive pig rearing systems. It is anticipated that the scientific veterinary committee will complete its report by the end of July this year.

The question of access by press photographers to private premises is governed by the law of the Member State concerned.