THE European Federation of Thoroughbred Breeders Associations [EFTBA] says a breakthrough has been made on the issue of transporting breeding stock within the European Union.

The initial drafts of the proposed Welfare in Transport Regulation had the potential to create significant challenges for the thoroughbred breeding sector. However, the EFTBA has been informed this week that revised wording has been incorporated into the draft legislation.

The new wording states: “Point 4a (Article 2, Chapter I, Annex I) provides an exemption for purebred breeding horses and donkeys (Equus caballus and Equus asinus) that are registered in the main section of a breeding book established by a breed society recognised under Regulation (EU) 2016/1012, provided they are not being transported for slaughter.

“These breeding animals represent significant genetic and economic value. The high standard of transport arrangements typically applied to them, combined with close oversight from those responsible for their care, means welfare risks during transport are already minimised.

“For this reason, the transport of such animals, for purposes other than slaughter, is exempt from specific administrative and procedural requirements, namely mandatory stay periods at places of departure, journey logs, and journey time limits.”

Joe Hernon, EFTBA chairman, said: “This revised wording provides an important derogation for the breeding sector in relation to these requirements, similar to those already granted to racing and elite FEI competition horses.

“This achievement would not have been possible without the considerable support received from the European Council, the European Commission, Members of the European Parliament, national governments and their officials, the EFTBA Executive and membership, our veterinary advisers, and partner organisations including the European and Mediterranean Horseracing Federation (EMHF) and the European Horse Network (EHN).

“We extend our sincere gratitude to all who have contributed to this effort.”

While some challenges remain, including matters relating to auction sales, work in these areas is continuing. Nevertheless, the proposed derogation represents a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to ensure that the legislation protects animal welfare without inadvertently damaging the breeding industry.”