Local Euro MP Brian Simpson has received assurances from European Commission Vassiliou that she is prepared to act in the area of transportation of live animals to improve not only welfare standard but also the enforcement of any rules that are agreed.

“We know that in some EU countries animal welfare standard are poor and law enforcement non-existent.  This indication from Commission Vassiliou is a step in the right direction and will hopefully lead to far better standard of welfare for live animals that are being transported” said the Labour MEP.

The Commissioner also indicated that she is looking at welfare standards not only for animals going to slaughter but for zoo animals, horses, donkeys and other non slaughter animals.  When questioned by Mr. Simpson at the European Parliament Agricultural Committee in Brussels, Mrs. Vassiliou was very clear that she was keen to involve all animals involved in live transportation and she would take action against any Member State who failed to implement and enforce EU animal welfare laws.

“I welcome the Commissioners commitment on this issue and I will be watching carefully to ensure that her encouraging words are translation into action” said Mr. Simpson.