Animal welfare in Serbia

21.5.2013

Question for written answer E-005695-13
to the Commission
Rule 117
Phil Bennion (ALDE)

Allegations of cruelty at animal shelters in Serbia have been brought to my attention. I have been informed of cruelty at shelters throughout the country, such as in Požega, where it has been alleged that dogs are kept indoors, starved, beaten and injected with T61 with no proper sedatives or preparation.

Article 13 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union requires Member States to pay full regard to the welfare requirements of animals. In light of Serbia’s candidate status, are such allegations known to the Commission? If so, has the Commission taken any action to verify them?

OJ C 41 E, 12/02/2014