Debate on farm animal welfare

DELEGATES from the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), the veterinary equivalent of the World Health Organisation, are to be shown a new film on world farm animal transport in Paris this week.

The delegates from 160 nations will debate OIE proposals to adopt the first-ever global standards for live farm animal transport and slaughter, with a final decision expected on Thursday.

The standards emphasise that animal welfare should be considered throughout transportation. They stress the need for rest periods, that food and water be provided and also outlaw certain transit practices.