SCF is seriously concerned about the recent announcement by CalMac of new requirements for livestock transports on ferry journeys over three hours.
New restrictions placed on CalMac by the UK Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) imply that livestock must be accompanied by a person able to euthanise animals during a ferry crossing which is over three hours. This introduces many difficulties for crofters on islands such as Barra who will either have to find someone to accompany the animals or instead have to transport livestock to the mainland by way of a lengthy detour via Lochmaddy, with longer overall journey times detrimental to animal welfare.
The announced proposal will create a range of problems: Assuming that the only option for euthanasia in this situation would be a captive bolt as it is unlikely that a vet would be on hand to administer a lethal injection, who would decide euthanasia would be required? How is the animal going to be restrained? And how is disposal of the carcass going to be handled?
SCF Chief Executive Donna Smith said: “Given the increasing burdens being placed on crofters, this feels like another move that will contribute to livestock keepers giving up in the face of adhering to impossible regulations which I’m sure will also have ripple effect impacts on many businesses, hauliers, and not least CalMac themselves.” SCF has written to David Hamill, CalMac Area Manager for the Outer Hebrides, Small Isles, Skye and Raasay, asking to be included in any stakeholder discussions aimed at resolving this issue, and has informed Highlands and Islands MSPs about the problems this policy poses for crofters. We are hoping to come to an agreement preventing the imposition of this onerous and nonsensical measure.