Transportation of Live Animals

January 2007 saw the new EU Regulations come into force across Europe. The Regulation replaces all existing legislation and states that: “No animal shall be transported unless it is fit for the intended journey, and all animals shall be transported in conditions guaranteed not to cause them injury or unnecessary suffering.”

The Regulations are complex, open to local interpretation and will be enforced by local authorities (Trading Standards) which also adds to the confusion. It applies to all those involved with the transport of vertebrate animals in connection with an economic activity, including farmers, livestock and equine hauliers along with those working in markets and collection centres.

The EU Regulation sets out requirements for journeys over 65km:
• Hold a transporter authorisation
• Ensure drivers and/or attendants hold a certificate of competence (from January ’08)
• Complete an Animal Transport Certificate
• Vehicles to be clearly marked “Live Animals”

Further requirements apply for journeys over 8 hours.

Those who have not already applied for a Transporter Authorisation are encouraged to do so as soon as possible – before they incur a charge www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/welfare.

Westmorland is leading the way regarding Certificates of Competence, being the first centre nationally to offer training and assessments. Courses are being held monthly, with the next dates being

Tuesday 29 th January 2008

Thursday, 14 th February

Thursday 21 st February

Wednesday 12 th March

Tuesday 25 th March

The prices for transportation of live animals courses,£83 for first element normally Cattle & Sheep - combined element and then £22 per additional element Poultry, Pigs, or Equine.

Test only £46 for one element as above

Tuesday, 12 th February

Monday, 25 th February

Thursday, 13 th March

Thursday, 27 th March

Costs are being kept to a minimum. Whilst not experts, the “girls in the office” are able to answer questions and offer advice to farmers about the Regulation and it’s implications – please call 015395 67804 for information.