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INTERNATIONAL FUR TRADE FEDERATION PRESS RELEASE, NOVEMBER 17, 2005
Animal Welfare Loses Out as MEPs Reject European Commission Trapping Proposal
Today's rejection by the European Parliament of the draft EU Directive on Humane Trapping Standards is a setback for the welfare of trapped animals in the EU, according to the International Fur Trade Federation (IFTF).
Several million animals are trapped each year in the EU for a variety of reasons. At present, methods differ from country to country and no uniform standards are in place.
The draft Directive was intended to implement agreements on international humane trapping standards signed in 1997 between the EU, Canada, Russia and the United States.(1) Implementation of these agreements has led to significant improvements in animal welfare in Canada, Russia and the United States, and a similar result could be expected in the EU.(2)
"It is very disappointing that the European Parliament could not agree to the European Commission proposals. MEPs were divided in their views. Some Members felt the standards proposed did not go far enough; while others felt that the proposals were too restrictive and would mean trapping would have to stop in their country," commented IFTF's spokesperson.
"However, these concerns were not justified. The draft Directive proposed tough, but achievable standards. It also allowed for on-going review as new science becomes available."
The EU is under an obligation to implement the agreements signed in 1997.
IFTF's spokesperson added, "Now there will be a further delay in introducing more humane practices in the EU, while the European Commission decides what to do next. Unfortunately, while the politicians discuss, animal welfare improvements are put on hold."
Notes to editors:
(1) The EU negotiated two Agreements on International Humane Trapping Standards (AIHTS) in 1997. The first Agreement was with Canada and Russia; the second with the United States. Both Agreements incorporate the same standards. They were ratified by the EU Council in 1998 (Council decisions 98/142/EC and 98/487/EC). Under the Agreements, all traps must be tested against the agreed standards and, if they conform, must be certified by a designated competent authority. If they fail, they must be replaced.
(2) In Canada, some 153 commonly used traps have been tested under the AIHTS since 1999. Over 50% of the traps tested did not meet the standard and will be illegal in Canada by 2007.
(3) For more than 20 years, the International Fur Trade Federation (IFTF) has contributed substantial funds to research into the most humane methods of taking wild fur-bearers, in close co-operation with governments in Canada, Russia and USA. The IFTF's contribution alone to this research has been US$5 million.
For further information contact pressoffice@iftf.com.