Equine red tape slammed
Equine red tape slammed COSTLY, bureaucratic EU rules are threatening the future of Wales' equine industry, a top Cob breeder has claimed. "Farcical" plans for electronic identification of horses and ponies will cost owners hundreds of pounds for little benefit, said shadow rural affairs minister Brynle Williams. |  |
He said: "The economic downturn is already seeing an increase in animal welfare cases. Microchipping will only increase this risk.
"The priority should be on protecting the welfare of Wales' equines and supporting the industry."
All foals born after July 1 must be microchipped as well as having expensive passports.
Mr Williams warned that other EU schemes had already "lumbered" the industry with excessive red tape.
He demanded a more reliable national equine database and microchipping exemptions for semi-feral ponies.
"There is an urgent need for common sense over the system of identifying equines," he added.
Owners of rare Welsh Mountain Ponies on the Carneddau have revealed they are seeking exemptions from microchipping.
Original Report by Andrew Forgrave, Daily Post
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Added on: 15/01/09.
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