Answer given by Mr Dalli on behalf of the Commission
7.7.2011
1. The Commission is aware of the film posted on the web concerning the slaughter of 70 Romanian horses in Tulcea.
2, 3 and 4. There is no EU legislation prohibiting horses to be slaughtered provided that animals are transported and slaughtered according to the relevant EU rules[1]. The Commission has already contacted the Romanian authorities on the issue reported by the Honourable Member. The Romanian authorities have informed the Commission that an investigation is ongoing and that the situation will be further monitored.
5. When the Commission finds evidence that Member States' authorities have systematically failed to properly enforce EU rules, it may open an infringement procedure and conduct an investigation. The Commission may subsequently bring the matter before the Court of Justice of the European Union, who then rules on whether the Member State has failed to fulfil its obligations. Member States shall take the necessary measures to comply with the judgment of the Court.
- [1] OJ L 3, 5.1.2005, p. 1 and OJ L 340, 31.12.1993, p. 21.
OJ C 365 E, 15/12/2011