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Pig in transporter: no better animal welfare in sight
Photo: Sebastian Gollnow/ dpa
A year ago, the EU Parliament called for better protection of animals during transport.
But so far, little has happened at European level - and a great success is not imminent.
Federal Minister of Agriculture Cem Özdemir fears that the stricter regulations against suffering during long animal transports will be delayed.
"I'm a little worried that the proposals could fall by the wayside with a view to the upcoming European elections," said the Green politician in Brussels on the sidelines of a meeting of the 27 agriculture ministers of the EU countries.
The EU Commission has announced that it will submit a proposal by the end of the year.
The next EU elections are due in May 2024, after which the majority situation could change, which can make negotiations more difficult.
German rules are not enough
The Federal Republic has limited animal transports to countries outside the EU, said the Federal Minister.
He referred to the withdrawal of German veterinary certificates for exports of live cattle, sheep and goats, for example for breeding in third countries, from July 1, 2023.
However, no animal is helped if it is brought to other Member States in order to be transported from there to a third country.
The protective measures do not go far enough for the animal protection organization Four Paws.
So that national restrictions cannot be circumvented, it is important "that we urgently come to common rules in Europe," said Özdemir.
Specifically, maximum transport times and restrictions on certain transports, such as young animals or to distant third countries, are needed.
Even with labeling, no agreement is visible
In addition, Özdemir insists on labeling the origin of meat.
"I very much regret that this was postponed from last year to the beginning of this year, but I want to put pressure on it to finally come."
The ministry relies on a European regulation.
However, Özdemir first wants to start with a legally regulated labeling of husbandry in Germany, which should initially only apply to fresh pork.
mmq/dpa