NSA disturbed by incident at Ramsgate Port
14th September 2012
The National Sheep Association was disturbed by the incident at Ramsgate Port on Wednesday (12th September), which resulted in the death of 45 sheep.
Phil Stocker, NSA Chief Executive, said: “The welfare of sheep must be a top priority for farmers, hauliers and all included in the supply chain. Our understanding is that this incident could have been avoided if regulations and controls, which are effective in the majority of cases, were followed. The law is very clear, for good reason, and insists on only healthy animals being moved via roadworthy vehicles and using suitable loading and unloading facilities.
“The transporting of live animals long distance and between EU states is a legitimate activity – but safeguarding of stock involved in this trade relies on rules being enforced in all EU countries. We have every confidence in the UK authorities and would like to see the facts behind this case investigated with the aim of improving enforcement and reducing welfare risks at all points of ownership and responsibility.
“Incidents such as this risk undermining public confidence in what is an important and legal trade, as well as the wider sheep industry and our products. It is in our interest to do all we can to promote and ensure good welfare conditions for our sheep, not just while they are in our ownership, but beyond where possible.”
