Port suspends live animal exports

From Thursday, 13 September, the Port of Ramsgate has suspended any live animal movements through the Port with immediate effect.

This is a temporary suspension, but its lifting will depend on the construction of suitable facilities within the Port. Providing the facilities will depend on the cost of building and running such a facility, and also whether it is a priority of the council in comparison with other issues.

This move follows an incident where staff at the Port of Ramsgate took action overnight (12 September) to support animal health laws when a lorry unfit for transporting live animals failed inspection on its arrival. Despite every effort being made at the port to treat the animals humanely, 40 sheep had to be put down following advice from the RSPCA.

Just last week, leading members of Thanet District Council’s Cabinet wrote to the environment Secretary calling for the facilities needed to prevent situations like this happening.

Leader of Thanet District Council, Cllr Clive Hart said that “Thanet District Council recognises that live exports are a lawful trade, but we are also conscious of our responsibilities regarding the welfare of animals passing through our port. We are saddened to see animals arrive at our Port in this condition and it underlines the need to implement EU regulations strictly in order to avoid any suffering caused to the animals.

You may also want to read the related news article: Live animal export letter sent to Environment Secretary