This report describes the outcome of an FVO specific audit in Bulgaria, which took place between 26 to 30 April 2010 as part of the general audit carried out under the provisions of Regulation (EC) No 882/2004 on official food and feed controls.

The specific audit evaluated the implementation of national measures for animal welfare on farms and during transport.

It is concluded that there has been little improvement in the performance of the CA since the last mission in 2009. In particular, in the laying hen sector poor enforcement action to prevent restocking of non-compliant cages and non dissuasive administrative sanctions means that cages which are not in compliance with minimum animal welfare requirements are still being used. Regarding the pig sector, official controls do not ensure compliance with the requirements regarding manipulable material, feed for pregnant sows and gilts and mutilations.

The system for approval of long distance means of transport is not effectively administered by the CA. Plans for the development of control facilities at the port used as exit point have been prepared, but there are still weaknesses in the official controls.

The report makes a number of recommendations to the Bulgarian competent authorities, aimed at rectifying the shortcomings identified and enhancing the implementing and control measures in place.

Further Reading

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You can view the full report by clicking here.

Further Reading

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You can view the response of the Bulgarian authority by clicking here.