Galgos and the strategy for the Protection and Welfare of Animals 2012-2015

8.11.2012

Question for written answer E-010202-12
to the Commission
Rule 117
Robert Sturdy (ECR)

On 29 September 2012, the Andalusian Regional Government announced legislation that would legalise the practice of training Spanish greyhounds (galgos) by tying them to motorised vehicles, quad bikes, mopeds etc. This results in many dogs being dragged along by these vehicles and severely injured or killed. Currently, this practice is illegal in Spain; however, in Andalusia these laws and their corresponding fines are often overlooked.

The Commission has recently issued a communication on the European Union Strategy for the Protection and Welfare of Animals 2012-2015 (COM(2012) 6 final/2) which outlines the future work and goals of the EU on animal welfare. As part of this strategy, one of the actions foreseen in 2014 is a study on the welfare of dogs and cats involved in commercial practices.

Does the Commission plan to assess the specific situation of galgos in its study on the welfare of dogs and cats involved in commercial practices?

Is the Commission planning any other possible actions for the protection of dogs under the strategy for the Protection and Welfare of Animals?

With regard to the welfare of dogs, does the Commission intend to take any measures to strengthen Article 13 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, which requires Member States to pay full regard to the welfare requirements of animals?

Does the Commission intend to undertake any direct action in regard to this horrific practice in Andalusia?

OJ C 320 E, 06/11/2013