(2004/C 70 E/283)

WRITTEN QUESTION E-3394/03

by Astrid Thors (ELDR) to the Commission

(17 November 2003)

Subject:   Cruelty to animals in applicant countries

The history of dancing bears is an old and savage one. In Bulgaria, several dozens bears have been poached or purchased on the black market and subjected to a harsh training regime. Dancing bears are still commonplace in Romania as well. The standard method of training involves forcing a thick iron ring through their nose, which causes considerable pain when yanked. The bears dance in an attempt to avoid the pain. Alternatively, music is played whilst the bears stands on hot plates, where it will dance to stop being burnt. It will then dance whenever it hears music. When not performing, the bears are chained up with little shelter, no exercise and limited food and water. Misguided tourists perpetuate the tradition by giving money.

In the accession negotiations, has the Commission paid any attention to the fact that Romania and Bulgaria allow this cruelty to animals and, in this way, breach what is current European Union legislation?

Answer given by Mr Byrne on behalf of the Commission

(8 December 2003)

The Commission deplores cruelty to animals in all its forms. However, the Commission is only able to act in animal welfare matters where it has the legal power to do so.

Under the relevant Protocol to the EC Treaty animal welfare considerations must be taken into account in relation to the Community agriculture, transport and internal market and research policies. The use of animals for entertainment purposes falls outside the scope of Community animal welfare law. The prevention of cruelty to such animals is a competence of individual Member States.

It has, therefore, not been possible to raise the issue mentioned by the Honourable Member during the accession negotiations.