Cowen calls for balanced, practical approach to live animal transport
Fianna Fáil MEP for the Midlands North-West Barry Cowen has called for a balanced and practical approach to proposed new EU regulations on live animal transport. Speaking this morning at a joint meeting of the European Parliament’s Agriculture (AGRI) and Transport (TRAN) Committees, MEP Cowen welcomed aspects of the European Commission’s proposals but stressed the need for key amendments to ensure the rules are workable for farmers and transporters.
MEP Cowen voiced his support for the Commission’s recommendations on sea journey derogations and road journey time limitations, stating that they represent a fair compromise between scientific evidence and economic realities. However, he highlighted two major areas of concern: the proposed five-year transition period and the minimum transfer age for calves.
The Fianna Fáil MEP argued that the current five-year timeframe is too short given the scale of investment required by transporters to comply with new regulations. Additionally, he criticised the proposal to increase the minimum transfer age for calves from 14 days to five weeks, citing conflicting scientific evidence and the potential financial burden it would place on farmers due to increased costs in housing, feed, veterinary care and manure management.
MEP Cowen also emphasised the importance of meaningful engagement in discussions on these regulations. He stressed that real progress can only be achieved through active participation, constructive debate and a willingness to listen to different perspectives. “Serious policy challenges require serious engagement,” he noted, in contrast to those who make fleeting contributions without engaging in the necessary dialogue to find workable solutions.
“While I support many aspects of the Commission’s proposals, it is vital that we ensure any new rules are fair and achievable. The five-year transition period is simply too short given the level of investment transporters will need to make in new vehicles and technology. Extending this period will give the sector the necessary time to adapt.”
“Similarly, the proposed increase in the minimum transfer age for calves fails to account for the full scientific picture and overlooks the impact on farm structures. Such a drastic change will place an undue burden on farmers, driving up costs in multiple areas. This needs to be properly examined before implementation.”
MEP Cowen confirmed that he will be tabling amendments to address these key concerns and will continue to advocate for a practical and balanced approach to live animal transport regulations.