Traditional pig slaughter in the Czech Republic

26.1.2015

Question for written answer P-000999-15
to the Commission
Rule 130
Jiří Pospíšil (PPE)

A new veterinary law has entered into force in the Czech Republic which aims to significantly reduce — or rather to eliminate — the domestic slaughter of pigs, which is a traditional element of Czech rural life. In this context, it is being argued that the new regulations stem from EU rules which only permit breeders to slaughter animals in order to produce meat for their own consumption. However, other people have always been invited to attend traditional pig slaughters, something that would not be possible under the new rules.

1. Is this new law based on EU rules and decisions?

2. If so, how can this situation be resolved while maintaining the aforementioned traditionof pig slaughter in the Czech Republic?