Authors: question : Claudiu-Richard Târziu (ECR). Answer: Mr Várhelyi on behalf of the European Commission
Question : Fairness in the application of the new European animal welfare rules in the specific context of Eastern Europe
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Answer in French (translation): 1. In line with better regulation principles, the next legislative proposal on animal welfare on farms will be accompanied by a full impact assessment, as was the 2023 legislative proposal on animal welfare during transport [1]. These assessments take account of structural differences between Member States, notably the diversity of farm sizes and production methods. In addition, the Commission is carrying out extensive stakeholder consultations to take account of the realities on the ground. The aim is to ensure proportionate rules while achieving the desired welfare outcomes.
2. On the basis of the results of the impact assessment and stakeholder consultations, the Commission will seek to propose proportionate rules for animal welfare on farms, adopting a progressive approach, with a species-specific transition period, and providing farmers with sufficient financial support and time to adapt. The harmonized and modernized rules will also give farmers the assurance of long-term stability for their investments. The transport proposal adopted in 2023 is now in the hands of the co-legislators.
3. The modernization of EU animal welfare rules offers a strategic opportunity to strengthen the competitiveness of the entire EU livestock sector, while encouraging innovation. Many of the EU's current animal welfare rules are outdated, many member states have adopted national rules that go beyond the EU's minimum requirements, and private initiatives have proliferated, fragmenting the internal market and distorting competitiveness. Harmonizing standards between member states will promote fairer competition and the smooth running of the single market.
Preview: Question : In Romania and other central and eastern European countries, livestock breeding is not just an important economic activity, but also a part of rural identity and cultural heritage. The new European animal welfare initiatives - such as the elimination of cages or the limiting of transportation - can place excessive burdens on small and traditional farms that do not have the resources necessary for a rapid transition.
There are concerns that these regulations are designed for large farms in western Europe and are being applied uniformly, without reflecting the Union's economic diversity. This approach could have an adverse impact on farmers in the East and reinforce the perception of an unequal single market. In this context, we request the following clarifications from the European Commission:
1. What concrete measures will it take to ensure that the animal welfare standards will be implemented in a proportionate manner that reflects the structural differences between the Member States, especially those in eastern Europe?
2. What types of financial support or transition mechanisms does it intend to offer to small farmers to enable them to adapt without the risk of being forced to cease their activity?
3. How will it guarantee that the application of these rules will not lead to distortions in single market competitiveness to the detriment of farmers in less developed regions of the Union?
Answer: 1. In line with the principles of better regulation, the upcoming legislative proposal on animal welfare on farm will be accompanied by a comprehensive impact assessment, just as the legislative proposal from 2023 on the welfare of animals during transport was [1]. These assessments consider the structural differences across Member States, including the diversity of farm sizes and production methods. In addition, the Commission performs extensive stakeholder consultations to take into account the realities on the ground. The objective is to ensure proportionate rules while still achieving the intended welfare outcomes.
2. Based on the outcome of the impact assessment and stakeholder consultations, the Commission will aim to propose proportionate rules for on-farm animal welfare with a gradual approach, species-specific transition period, and to provide farmers with sufficient financial support and time to adapt. The harmonised and modernised rules will also provide farmers with the assurance of a long-term stability for their investments. The transport proposal adopted in 2023 is now in the hands of the co-legislators.
3. Modernising EU animal welfare rules presents a strategic opportunity to enhance the competitiveness of the entire EU livestock sector while fostering innovation. Many of the current EU animal welfare rules are outdated, many Member States have adopted national rules going beyond minimum EU requirements, and private initiatives have flourished, leading to a fragmentation of the internal market and causing distortions in competitiveness. Harmonisation of the standards across Member States will promote fairer competition and a smooth functioning of the single market.
From the European Parliament website
