Comments on the draft law “Law on Welfare and Protection of Animals no VIII-500 “(Lithuania)
The International Fur Federation (IFF) is disappointed to see the Lithuanian amendments to its Animal Protection Law prohibiting the breeding of animals for the production of fur. We are surprised that the farmers will not be compensated for the loss of a viable business.
We believe that the decision has been taken with reference to false claims and myths and is not based on a detailed assessment of animal welfare on the Lithuanian fur farms. To close a completely legitimate industry and take away the livelihood of several families without even offering a proper compensation package for the farmers is nothing less than a scandal.
Over the years the Lithuanian fur farmers have made substantial investments in their farms including infrastructure, equipment, and investments in living up to the European certification scheme Welfur. In some cases, with the help and support of the Lithuanian authorities, the farmers got EU funding to improve farming practices and animal welfare at the farm level. In the areas where the fur farms are located, there are no alternative business opportunities. A ban will lead to job loss affecting not only farmers and farm workers but also related industries and families.
Lithuanian did not provide sufficient compensation for the farmers to compensate for the loss connected to the ban. Compensation should take into consideration the investments made, the loss of livelihood and the potential difficulties in transitioning to other jobs. A right for fair treatment is secured under national law in Lithuania but has in this case not been respected and therefore we believe the European Commission should notify the Lithuanian government under the TRIS procedure.
We urge the Commission to notify Lithuania to reconsider the ban proposal to allow a proper financial impact assessment to ensure that the European Commission’s concept of better regulation is also respected by the Members of the European Union.
With kind regards,
Mark Oaten
An International Membership Organization acting in Cooperation with
Saga Furs Oyj | American Mink Exchange | Fur Harvesters Auction Inc. Auction Company “Sojuzpushina Limited” | RusPushnina Limited
