Answer given by Mr Dalli on behalf of the Commission
1.4.2011
The issues of illegal trade in pet animals and their protection have already been addressed by the Commission in the replies to E‑4525/08, E‑3787/09 and E‑6868/10[1].
The Commission notes that Italy took the necessary measures to enforce Regulation (EC) No 998/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 26 May 2003 on the animal health requirements applicable to the non-commercial movement of pet animals and amending Council Directive 92/65/EEC[2].
However, as the European Convention for the Protection of Pet Animals of the Council of Europe[3] is not part of EU legislation and as the protection of pet animals is under the exclusive competence of the Member States, public awareness campaigns regarding the potential risks related to trade in these animals are part of Member States' responsibility.
- [1] http://www.europarl.europa.eu/QP-WEB
- [2] OJ L 146, 13.6.2003.
- [3] http://conventions.coe.int/Treaty/en/Treaties/Html/125.htm
OJ C 294 E, 06/10/2011