S.L. 439.10 Art. 3Transportation of animals to and from the territory of Malta. Cap. 439.

(1) (a) The transport of animals to the territory of Malta from trading partners and from the territory of Malta to trading partners shall be effected in accordance with these regulations and, in respect of the animals referred to in regulation -

(i) 1(2)(a), the provisions of Chapter I of the Schedule,

(ii) 1(2)(b), the provisions of Chapter II of the Schedule,

(iii) 1(2)(c), the provisions of Chapter III of the Schedule,

(iv) 1(2)(d), the provisions of Chapter IV of the Schedule,

(v) 1(2)(e), the provisions of Chapter V of the Schedule: Provided that space allowances (loading densities) for animals at least shall comply with the figures laid down in Chapter VI of the Schedule, in respect of the animals and the means of transport referred to in that Chapter: Provided further that travelling times and rest periods and feeding and watering intervals for certain types of animals shall comply with those laid down in Chapter VII of the Schedule, in respect of the animals referred to in that Chapter.

(b) No animal shall be transported unless it is fit for the intended journey and unless suitable provisions have been made for its care during the journey and on arrival at the place of destination. Animals that are ill or injured shall not be considered fit for transport: Provided that, this provision shall not apply to -

(i) animals that are slightly injured or ill whose transport would not cause unnecessary suffering;

(ii) animals that are transported for scientific research purposes approved by the Veterinary Services.

(c) Animals that fall ill or are injured during transport shall receive first-aid treatment as soon as possible; they shall be given appropriate veterinary treatment and if necessary undergo emergency slaughter in a way which does not cause them any unnecessary suffering. (2 Notwithstanding the provisions of sub-regulation (1)(b), the transport of animals may be permitted for emergency veterinary treatment or slaughter under conditions which do not meet the requirements of these regulations. Any such transport is permitted only where no unnecessary suffering or ill treatment is caused to the animals concerned. If necessary, specific rules for the application of this sub-regulation shall be adopted in accordance with European Community rules and as laid down under the procedure found in article 22 of the Animal Welfare Act.

(3) Without prejudice to the requirements laid down in sub-regulations (1)(a) and (b) and in the Schedule, it may be laid down appropriate additional conditions for the transport of certain types of animal such as solipeds, wild birds and marine mammals in order to safeguard their welfare.

(4) Pending implementation of these provisions, the Veterinary Services may, subject to bilateral agreements with trading partners, apply some additional rules.