NFU raises questions about RSPCA role
Following the AHVLA report on the events at the port of Ramsgate last year, the National Farmers Union (NFU) has called for the RSPCA to clarify its role at the port.
It is felt that the recent report highlights confusion between the AHVLA and RSPCA over how to handle the incident. The timeline of events issued by the agency along with the report details the agency's intention to transport the vehicle in question to contingency premises 24 miles from Ramsgate. The RSPCA however objected to the proposal, and "informed the AHVLA inspector that they (the RSPCA)...were not prepared to allow the use of a vehicle that was unsuitable and overstocked, to transport the animals to the emergency facility."
Deputy president of the NFU Meurig Raymond claimed the RSPCA "appeared to have asserted significant influence over Government officials on the ground," during the incident which resulted in more than forty sheep having to be euthanised.
Mr Raymond insisted: "It is highly concerning that, although the RSPCA has no official role at the port, from an early stage, they were making objections to agreed contingency plans, making interventions from their legal team and, within an hour of a problem being found, they had ‘instructed’ AHVLA officers to unload animals at the port, despite RSPCA previously highlighting the lack of suitable facilities for handling animals."
The RSPCA however has defended its role during the incident, insisting the report "clearly states that all the key decisions on the day were taken by the competent authorities; AHVLA officers." The charity referred to its objection to the initial contingency plan as "well-founded" as a "fist-sized gap" was later found between the the deck floor and the shell of the vehicle, posing a significant risk to the animals.
The AHVLA timeline describes events from the inspection of the first vehicle at the port at 8:35am, to the arrival of the replacement vehicle at 1:00am the following morning, during which several difficulties are reported in implementing a contingency plan. As a result of the AHVLA's recent report, various alterations have been made to procedures to prevent a repeat of the incident.
To view the timeline of events click here.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
