This morning the EP adopted with a large majority (605+, 53-, 31 abstentions) the proposal for a decision B9-0191/2020 regarding the setting up of a committee of inquiry to investigate alleged contraventions and maladministration in the application of Union law in relation to the protection of animals during transport within and outside the Union, and defining its responsibilities, numerical strength and term of office [2020/2690(RSO)].

Given the low level of compliance with the EU regulation an in-depth assessment is urgently needed so as to allow concrete improvements for millions of transported animals.

Members of the Intergroup on the Welfare and Conservation of Animals were the initiators for the setting up of this Committee of Inquiry (see list below):

The call for this Committee of Inquiry on live transport came from 181 MEPs from all political groups who were renewing a request already submitted 2018.

At that time, the Conference of Presidents concluded that an Implementation Report was more appropriate to deal with this matter than a Committee of Inquiry.

In February 2019 the EP adopted the report by Animal Welfare Intergroup Member Jørn Dohrmann MEP (ECR, DK) on the implementation of Council Regulation No 1/2005 on the protection of animals during transport within and outside the EU (2018/2110(INI)).  This report highlighted key concerns to be addressed and among other issues, it recommended the EU Parliament to establish a Committee of Inquiry on the welfare of animals during transport for a more in-depth analysis. 

Animal Welfare Intergroup President, and one of the initiators of the idea for an Inquiry Committee said:

“Too many animals are still being transported in clear breach of the EU rules when it comes to the means and conditions of transport. I saw animals being transported in extreme heat, being abused and loaded onto horror ships that were completely unsuitable for transport. This Committee of Inquiry will carry out a thorough investigation to uncover the shortcomings regarding the granting of transport permits or the breaches of the rules during the different stages of transport. We want to ensure that all Member States abide by the rules and no longer grant transport permits under extreme weather conditions, export animals to third countries or allow to transport animals in a way that seriously affects their welfare.”

The Inquiry Committee will be instrumental in the framework of the revision of the Transport Regulation as announced in the recently published Farm to Fork Strategy for a fair, healthy and environmentally-friendly food system.