‘Gateway to Farm Animal Welfare’ is the new portal created by FAO in collaboration with its partners in order to promote the improvement of livestock health, welfare and productivity worldwide.
Through its expertise in various milk production systems, IDF was among the first organisations to be approached by FAO to join the new initiative.
Besides animal welfare aspects related to transport, slaughter and pre-slaughter management, the portal focuses on key issues and concerns to the dairy sector, such as animal husbandry and handling and the culling of animals for disease control. The portal also aims to promote compliance with animal welfare standards, including the internationally recognised OIE standards pertaining to international trade.
IDF director general, Christian Robert, said: “IDF pays tribute to FAO for creating an internet portal that serves as a comprehensive information database displaying all animal welfare-related publications, standards, legislation, guides, newsletters, training materials, policy and strategy documents, event announcements, etc. It has been expertly designed to provide a one-stop-shop for individuals and organisations searching for the latest information on the welfare of livestock.”
An editorial board composed of representatives from the various involved organisations, including the IDF technical director, has been appointed to preserve the integrity of the FAO portal as a source of reliable, science-based information. Expected users are farmers and government officials, lawmakers, researchers, the livestock and food industry and non-governmental organisations.
Animal health and welfare will be high on the agenda at the next IDF World Dairy Summit, which will take place in Berlin, 20-24 September 2009.
Source: International Dairy Federation
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