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Background

Farm Animal Welfare Committee (FAWC) Opinions on Fish Welfare. UK Aquaculture Forum, Belfast 21.2.12. Background. Farm Animal Welfare Committee, formerly the Farm Animal Welfare Council Previous Report on the Welfare of Farmed fish produced in 1996

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Background

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  1. Farm Animal Welfare Committee (FAWC) Opinions on Fish Welfare.UK Aquaculture Forum, Belfast 21.2.12

  2. Background • Farm Animal Welfare Committee, formerly the Farm Animal Welfare Council • Previous Report on the Welfare of Farmed fish produced in 1996 • Many changes the size and structure of the industry since 1996 – fewer larger operations, both companies and sites. • Many changes in the understanding and science of fish welfare since 1996. Scientific knowledge has advanced.

  3. Current Consideration • FAWC will conduct a study over the next year, seeking two opinions on: • The welfare of farmed fish, generally – completed by the Pigs, Poultry and Fish standing committee, chaired by Professor Mike Appleby • The welfare of farmed fish at slaughter – completed by the Welfare at Slaughter standing committee, chaired by Professor Henry Buller • The consultation launched on the 5th of December, due to conclude on the 24th of February • Seeking “ comments about the welfare of farmed fish and the welfare of farmed fish at slaughter.” • Opinion sought from 119 organisations / companies, including aquaculture interests, academic and veterinary institutions, retailers and welfare groups

  4. Drivers for an Updated Opinion • Advances in Industry • Changes in technology • Changes in the European regulatory and legislative context • Changes in the National regulatory and legislative context • Changes in the perception and knowledge of the consumer

  5. Areas of Interest - General • 1996 Report covered salmon and trout, need to consider other species as industry expands and diversifies • Fish numbers and some holding systems are now very large – challenges to view populations and individuals • Major areas: Environmental conditions and water quality Diseases and parasite infestation Nutrition Genetics Mutilations Emergency killing Movement and handling Transport

  6. Areas of Interest – Welfare at Slaughter • 1996 Report principle that“ Farmed Fish must be killed humanely” • Currently around 35 million fish per year are slaughtered in the UK • Concerns remain regarding welfare at slaughter, particularly regarding the application of inappropriate methods

  7. Achieving the Goal • Regular meeting of the Committees • Consultation – Request for opinion – closes 24th February • Visit to representative farms: Salmon, Trout and Halibut, Freshwater and Seawater, Slaughter and processing. • Public Consultation Meeting, later in 2012, date tbc • Seeking to reach an opinion in late 2012

  8. And Discuss . . .

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