Politicians and animal welfare organisations have blasted the Irish Government over a new trade deal that will see live pigs flown to China for breeding.
Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue described the deal as “an important milestone” following years of negotiations between the two countries.
Details of the deal, which is to be finalised include a protocol on the export of live pigs and set out quarantine and hygiene requirements.
Caroline Rowley of Ethical Farming Ireland said the journey will be extremely stressful for the pigs as it will involve an 11-hour flight with changes in air pressure, temperature, turbulence and excessive noise.
“Animal welfare standards in China are very poor. China is ranked G by the World Animal Protection Index for farm animal welfare, which is the lowest possible ranking,” she said.
However, the trade deal follows reports the UK is already preparing to ban the live export of animals and the EU may follow.
The Irish Society for the Protection of Cruelty to Animals (ISPCA) has called on Minister McConalogue to reconsider the export of live pigs.
“The ISPCA is completely opposed to live transport, particularly to countries outside of the EU where welfare standards do not conform to those of the EU,” said the charity.
LSL News.