(2004/C 78 E/0089)

WRITTEN QUESTION E-2197/03

by Bart Staes (Verts/ALE) to the Commission

(2 July 2003)

Subject:   Cattle transport — CATRA findings

The Commission announces in its communication IP/03/854 that the CATRA research project makes recommendations on the transportation of cattle (over long distances).

According to the findings of this study, animals experience the greatest stress during loading and unloading. Also, cattle transport vehicles need better, more appropriate design. The study also calls for improvements in the design of lairage facilities.

What concrete measures will the Commission be taking in these areas in order not only to improve the quality of the meat — as it states in its communication —, but also to ensure that transportation of animals takes place under the best possible conditions for them?

Answer given by Mr Byrne on behalf of the Commission

(4 August 2003)

A legislative proposal on the protection of animals during transport was adopted by the Commission on 16 July 2003. Scientific advice provides a sound basis for the formulation of policy proposals by the Commission and the recent findings of the Community-funded cattle transport (CATRA) research project provide valuable information in this regard. Additional inputs concerning this issue include an opinion from the Scientific Committee on Animal Health and Animal Welfare and the outcome of a detailed stakeholder and public consultation.

The legislative proposal takes these various elements into account in order to improve the protection of animals during transport. The Commission's proposal covers inter alia animal loading and unloading, handling facilities, vehicle standards and the training of personnel. The Commission believes that a step-by-step approach represents the best means of securing real improvements in animal welfare over the short to medium term. Consequently, the Commission proposal aims to ensure that the high standards recommended by scientists are implemented by the creation of proper legislative instruments, facilitating improved control and enforcement by the national competent authorities.