As you traverse the complex world of farming, one key aspect you’ll encounter is the movement of livestock. Whether you are considering conducting livestock movements for market purposes or just transferring animals from one holding to another, it’s crucial to understand the rules and regulations related to this process. This article will unpack the regulations surrounding the transport, journey, and welfare involved in moving animals like cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs within the UK.
Understanding the Role of CPH in Livestock Movements
Before diving into the specifics, let’s get a clear understanding of what a County Parish Holding (CPH) number is and its significance in livestock movements. A CPH number is a unique code that represents your agricultural holding. It serves as a reference point for regulatory bodies in instances related to animal welfare, disease control, and livestock movement.
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In the United Kingdom, if you keep livestock, it is a legal requirement to have a CPH. Also, before any movement, you will need to report it to the British Cattle Movement Service (BCMS) if you are moving cattle or the Animal Reporting and Movement Service (ARAMS) if it’s sheep or goats.
The Regulation for Animal Transport
Transporting animals, whether it’s cattle, sheep, goats, or pigs, constitutes a crucial part of livestock farming. This section will explore the regulations that govern these movements.
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When it comes to animal transport, the primary regulation is the EU Council Regulation 1/2005 on the protection of animals during transport. Despite Brexit, this regulation still applies in Northern Ireland and in Great Britain for international journeys. They aim to assure the welfare of animals during their journey, minimize potential injury, and decrease the likelihood of disease spread.
For journeys under 65 km within the UK, there are no specific transport rules. However, you still need to meet general animal welfare requirements. For journeys over 65 km, the regulations vary based on the duration and purpose of the journey. You must hold a valid transporter authorization, and the vehicle used for transport must undergo approval for long journeys.
Guidelines for Animal Welfare During Transport
Beyond the simple act of movement, the welfare of your animals during transport is of paramount importance. Regulations dictate that animals should only be transported under conditions that will not likely cause them injury or undue suffering.
The welfare of animals in transit is governed by both the Welfare of Animals (Transport) (England) Order 2006 and the Council Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 on the protection of animals during transport. These regulations stipulate that individuals involved in transporting livestock must have received training on animal welfare aspects.
The regulations further state that animals should only be transported if they are fit for the journey. You must not transport an animal that is ill, infirm, fatigued, likely to give birth during the journey, or has just given birth in the preceding 48 hours.
The Market-Driven Movement of Livestock
The movement of livestock for market purposes is a standard practice within the farming industry, but it also falls within regulatory purview. When moving livestock from your holding to a market, you need to complete a movement document. The document creates a record of animal movements, which is essential for tracking in the event of a disease outbreak.
In some parts of the UK, like Northern Ireland, there are additional rules for moving animals to and from markets. For instance, all cattle moved from a market must be tagged, except when going directly to slaughter. Moreover, cattle under 10 days old or those intended for export must not be brought to a market unless they are going to a dedicated calf market.
Livestock Movement: Ireland’s Special Case
Ireland occupies a unique position when it comes to livestock movement due to its geographic location and political context. The island of Ireland is divided into Northern Ireland, which is part of the UK, and the Republic of Ireland, which is an independent nation.
When it comes to moving livestock between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK, livestock keepers need to follow the same rules as for movements within England, Scotland, and Wales. However, the movement of animals from the UK to the Republic of Ireland or vice versa is treated as an export or import and is thus subject to additional regulations.
These include ensuring that animals are correctly identified, certified, and meet the health requirements of the destination country. It should be noted that due to Brexit, there may be additional requirements or changes to current regulations, and livestock keepers should stay informed of any updates.
The Necessity of Certificates of Competence in Livestock Movement
The adherence to best practices in animal welfare is non-negotiable in the UK. To ensure professionals involved in livestock transportation are adequately trained, a certificate of competence is required. The certificate is necessary for those involved in the movement of livestock, including cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, and other animals for journeys over 65 km.
This certificate is designed to instil the necessary knowledge and skills in professionals for the welfare of animals in transit. It covers topics such as the understanding of animal behaviour, the ability to assess fitness for travel, provisions for first aid, and planned rest periods for animals during long journeys.
The certificate can be obtained by completing a short training course offered by various accredited organisations. The course format can either be online or classroom-based. The certificate is only granted after passing an assessment following the training. The duration of the certificate validity varies; for instance, drivers and attendants of short journey road vehicles only need to renew their certificates every five years.
Having this certificate is not just a legal requirement but embodies the commitment of the UK farming community to uphold the highest standards of animal welfare. It is a tangible demonstration of the importance placed on the humane treatment of animals during transport.
The Role of Journey Logs in Livestock Movement
One of the essential tools for managing and monitoring livestock movement is the journey log. These logs are required for every journey that exceeds 8 hours.
A journey log is a detailed record of the trip from the beginning to the end, including locations, distances, times, resting periods, and other pertinent information. The log should correspond with the planned schedule provided to animal welfare authorities before the journey begins.
The use of journey logs is crucial for ensuring that livestock are transported according to regulations. They provide an accurate account of the journey, facilitating any necessary investigations by animal welfare authorities. Notably, journey logs are instrumental in tracing the movement of animals in the event of disease outbreaks, which is vital in controlling the spread and initiating timely action.
Journey logs are a testament to a system that values transparency and accountability in livestock transport. They are a concrete example of the comprehensive approach of the UK to the management of livestock movement.
Conclusion: Prioritising Animal Welfare in Livestock Movements
In conclusion, moving livestock within the UK requires adherence to a comprehensive set of regulations designed to prioritise animal welfare. From obtaining a CPH number to transporting animals, engaging in market-driven movement, and managing special cases like Ireland, each step is governed by rules aimed at ensuring the well-being of animals.
Maintaining certificates of competence and keeping journey logs are also mandatory aspects of these regulations. They promote a high level of professionalism and transparency in animal transportation, ensuring that animals are treated humanely and that their movements are accounted for.
Navigating these regulations may seem overwhelming, but it is a necessary and rewarding responsibility. By complying with these rules, you are not only fulfilling your legal obligations but also contributing to a culture of respect and care for animals. After all, the welfare of animals is a reflection of our values as a society. So, let’s continue to uphold the high standards of animal welfare that define the UK’s approach to livestock movement.
