Italian border inspection posts fail animal welfare

Posted on 18/05/2012

Just a few weeks after a disappointing report which evaluated the implementation of controls for animal welfare on farms and during transport in Italy, a more recent audit carried out by the European Commission’s Food and Veterinary Office in Italy shows again poor follow-up actions taken by the Competent Authorities this time with regard to animal welfare controls at border inspection posts.

Although it has been noted that procedures and working instructions in place take into consideration requirements on animal welfare, the audit team reported that the presence of old structures, bad maintenance and improper follow-up of shortcomings flagged during previous audits cannot guarantee the welfare of animals during checks or detention.

This report shows once again that Italian Competent Authorities are dragging their feet when it comes to enforce animal welfare laws. This situation is clearly unacceptable and Eurogroup urges the European Commission to take action to ensure swift and full implementation of controls for animal welfare in Italy.