Welfare of Animals During Transport

In 2010 the 2005/1 legislation is under review and through both the DEFRA working group on this issue and through EFTBA the TBA are continuing to promote the interests of breeders.

Horse Passport Regulations 2009 – Full details can be found on: www.defra.gov.uk

BHEST Launches Equine Transport Qualification

The British Horseracing Education and Standards Trust (BHEST) launched its newly developed Equine Transport Qualifications at Weatherbys on 26 th March 2007 to over 50 delegates from a wide range of equestrian disciplines. The qualifications are designed to meet the new Welfare of Animals During Transport legislation which requires those transporting animals as a commercial activity to have Certificates of Competence by January 2008. Pathways for attendants and drivers for both short and long journeys are available as demanded by the legislation, and BHEST is one of only three Awarding bodies offering these Defra�approved qualifications. Christine Jarvis, representing Defra at the launch, expressed her satisfaction that the industry has worked so constructively with Defra to meet the requirements of the legislation.

The TBA has been closely involved with the development of the qualifications from the outset. Further information is available to registered employers on the TBA Employers’ Register site which can be accessed through the TBA website. To register as an employer, visit the TBA Stud Staff and Employers Project page, or contact Caroline Turnbull at Stanstead House.

New EU rules for transporting animals comes into force on 5 January 2007.

The new rules are aimed at improving the welfare of animals during transport and include particular requirements for anyone moving live vertebrate animals in connection with an economic activity.

From 5 January 2007, anyone wishing to transport animals as part of a business or commercial activity will need to be authorised as an animal transporter.

Anyone requiring a Transporter Authorisation should apply using:

• a short journey application form WIT1 if you transport animals on journeys over 65km and up to 8 hours, or
• a long journey application form WIT2 if you transport animals on journeys of 8 hours and over.

Transporter Authorisations will be issued by the State Veterinary Service. They are currenlty free of charge and last for 5 years.

Full details on how to apply can be found on:
www.defra.gov.uk

Downloadable documents

• Certificates of Competency, TBA recommendations [49.37KB] - downloaded: (672)
• Defra Notice on Competence Certificates [19.69KB] - downloaded: (331)