COUNCIL RESOLUTION

of 22 December 1993

on the strengthening of veterinary epidemiological surveillance measures

(94/C 16/01)

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community,

Whereas the introduction since 1964 of harmonized veterinary rules for the main breeds of animal and the main products of animal origin subject to common market organization has facilitated the development of intra-Community trade in such animals and products;

Whereas Chapter I of Directive 90/425/EEC establishes the principle of veterinary checks at the place of origin for animals and certain products of animal origin, trade in which might involve the danger of spreading epizootic diseases;

Whereas on 1 January 1993 veterinary checks at borders between the Member States were abolished;

Whereas certain inadequacies have appeared in the system of checks at the place of origin introduced by Directive 90/425/EEC;

Whereas, before the transitional measures provided for in Directive 90/675/EEC expire, a decision should be reached to strengthen checks at the place of origin;

HEREBY AGREES, while reaffirming the role and responsibilities of the official services (particularly in checking certification) and in order to ensure control of the movement of animals after the abolition of border checks, to supplement existing control provisions so as to:

1. classify all holdings in relation to the highest possible status and enable more direct access to trade for operators whose holdings have been classified in this way;

2. ensure a close link between animal health, public health and the health quality of the products concerned;

3. strengthen control of trade and imports of animals and products of animal origin and reduce fraudulent movements;

4. further the optimal exchange of information between all the parties involved;

REQUESTS the Commission to formulate appropriate proposals by 1 July 1994, taking particular account of the need to

- ensure official supervision of holdings in order to guarantee the veterinary checks provided for in Article 3 of Directive 90/425/EEC,

- clarify the respective responsibility of operators involved in trade and in maintaining a high health level and of veterinarians responsible for control and disease measures,

- seek appropriate ways and means of ensuring effective supervision of holdings from the veterinary standpoint and of guaranteeing the maintenance of their health status,

- allow Member States to choose the most appropriate means as regards arrangements for the practical application of this principle through the optimal use of their veterinary staffing resources.

HEREBY AGREES to do everything in its power to ensure that these principles are implemented swiftly in the context of the amendment of Directive 64/432/EEC.