Protection of animals during transport (amend. direct. 91/628/EEC)

The Council addressed once again the sensitive and difficult issue of the protection of animals in transport. For this purpose it had the Presidency compromise put forward in March together with suggestions from the Commissioner, Mr Fischler. Concluding its discussions, the Council noted that several delegations could agree on certain basic principles that should underpin any future solution, such as the distinction to be made between species, specific requirements for the most delicate animals, adaptation of means of transport to the animals’ physiological needs, and transport by sea. There were still deep disagreements among delegations, especially over journey times, rest periods, watering and feeding intervals, and the continuation of journeys after rest periods. The Council agreed to continue the discussion at its next meeting, when it would try to reach a conclusion on the issue.