Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
The European Convention for the protection of animals kept for farming purposes (ETS 87, 1976) is a
'framework convention' which gives principles for the keeping, care and housing of animals, in particular in
intensive breeding systems. A Standing Committee (T-AP) composed of Representatives of the Parties to the
Convention, is responsible for the elaboration and adoption of more detailed recommendations to the Parties
concerning the different species of animals for the implementation of the principles set out in the Convention.
Details of the various conventions are to be found at: http://www.coe.int/t/e/legal_affairs/legal_co-operation/
biological_safety%2C_use_of_animals/Farming/
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Eurogroup for Animal Welfare
The Eurogroup for Animal Welfare was formed in 1980 as a confederation of non-governmental organisations
with an interest in animal welfare.
Its function is to produce policy papers on animal welfare issues and to lobby the European Institutions.
http://www.eurogroupforanimals.org/about/about.htm
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Federation of Veterinarians of Europe
The Federation of Veterinarians of Europe (FVE) is a federation of veterinary association from 38 European
countries representing the views of over 200 000 veterinarians. The welfare of animals is a key concern of the
organisation.
Through working groups, the Federation has produced a number of opinions and policy documents which it
uses to lobby the European Commission and Parliament.
Documents can be viewed at: www.fve.org
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Farm Animal Welfare Council - United Kingdom
The Farm Animal Welfare Council (FAWC) is an advisory body established by the UK Government in 1979. Its
terms of reference are to keep under review the welfare of farm animals on agricultural land, at market, in transit
and at the place of slaughter; and to advise the Government of any legislative or other changes that may be
necessary.
The Council can:
a
investigate any topic falling within its remit.
b
communicate freely with outside bodies, the European Commission and the public.
c
publish its advice independently
Its reports on various animal welfare issues can be viewed at http://www.fawc.org.uk/reports.htm
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Farm Animal Welfare Advisory Council
In Ireland, the Minister for Agriculture and Food appoints 18 members from the government Departments, the
farming industry, welfare bodies and from veterinary groups to form the Farm Animal Welfare Advisory Council.
The Council has as its terms of reference:
a
To identify ways in which the welfare of farm animals can be further improved and to prioritise areas requiring
attention.
b
At the request of the Minister/Department, to consider and advise on proposals for EU and national legisla-
tion relating to farm animals.
c
To consider ways of increasing public awareness and development and dissemination of information relating
to welfare of farm animals at home and abroad.
d
To provide any other advice relevant to the welfare of farm animals as the Minister may seek from time to time.
Guidelines produced for various sectors of the livestock farming industry and for welfare of animals during
transport can be found at: http://www.agriculture.gov.ie/fawac/index.jsp?file=publications.xml
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Humane Slaughter Association
The Humane Slaughter Association (HSA) is the only registered charity that works, in the UK and internation-
ally, through educational, scientific and technical advances, exclusively towards the highest worldwide standards
of welfare for food animals during transport, marketing and slaughter.
The Association produces
a
Up-to-date technical information and advice on all aspects of animal handling, transport and slaughter.
b
Training in humane methods of handling and slaughter of livestock for farmers, vets, abattoir staff and students.
