New EU rules over animal transport

STEPS being taken to implement EU transport regulation, which harmonises rules on the transport and care of animals, will apply on a phased basis from January 2007.

The regulation puts in place rules in respect of the transport of animals for three categories of journey — up to 65km, over 65km, under eight hours and over eight hours. It also contains provisions relating to staff at marts and assembly centres.

Agriculture Minister Mary Coughlan said the vast majority of Irish farmers and transporters operate to the highest of standards.

“The new regulation will clearly state the standards, and will be applied in a sensible manner, ensuring compliance with the legislation, no additional cost to farmers and no disruption to trade,” she said.

Ms Coughlan said properly regulated transport of animals plays an essential role in supporting indigenous farming activity and the export trade in live animals.

While basic minimum provisions relating to welfare must continue to be observed, persons transporting animals up to 65km will not require any authorisation or specific training. Persons transporting animals beyond 65km will have to register with their district veterinary office and from 2008, will be required to demonstrate competence.

Farmers using their own vehicles on journeys over 65km, however, will not have to undergo any specific training as they will be deemed to have the required competence.

Commercial transporters over 65km will have to carry documentation relating to the animals and journey.

Personnel involved in transporting animals for long journeys (more than eight hours) will be required to undergo training and to hold certificates of competence from 2008.

The regulation provides for submission of journey logs (formerly route plans) and specifies standards for vehicles involved in such transport relating to insulation, ventilation, minimum height specification and ramps.

Mandatory satellite tracking will be required on new road vehicles from 2007 and on all such vehicles (excluding the transport of registered horses) from 2009.

Exemptions in the regulation facilitate transport of animals to shows and transport of mares during the foaling heat.