After what he describes as “exhaustive” negotiations with colleagues from over 20 Member States, Fianna Fáil MEP Billy Kelleher feels he is “one step closer to getting rid of the impracticable and damaging proposals” on pregnant and unweaned animals from the ANIT recommendation.
The comes after his success at convincing his Renew Europe colleagues to table alternative amendments last week. Kelleher managed to secured support for the re-tabling of original compromises from his colleagues in Renew Europe.
He also confirmed that the EPP and the S&D groups will also re-table the original compromises. He said the next fortnight would be “crucial” to protect live animal exports.
“While the support of every MEP in each of our three groups is not guaranteed, it is a positive sign that groups representing a majority in the parliament have agreed to re-table these sensible, yet pro-animal welfare, amendments,” he stated.
“This will be a difficult vote next week. Parliament is split 50:50 on this issue. While the outcome cannot be certain, this week’s decision of the three groups to re-table the more sensible proposals is an important step.”
The vote on these proposals will take place on Thursday, January 20, 2022, when the Parliament convenes in Strasbourg.
Until then he said he will work to “convince” more MEPs, especially Irish colleagues, to vote for proposals that “improve standards and allow the industry to continue”.
LSL News.