Ref. Ares(2018)5683579 - 07/11/2018
WORK PLAN TO REDUCE ROUTINE TAIL-DOCKING OF PIGS IN
MEMBER STATES
Tail-biting in pigs is considered an abnormal behaviour due to pigs feeling stressed or
discomfort. In cases where it appears, pigs can be tail-docked. But as this practice is in itself
painful for the pigs and it does not remove the causes that trigger biting, farmers should take
other measures to prevent tail-biting before carrying out this procedure. Pigs should not be
routinely docked.
Objective
To improve the application of Council Directives 2008/120/EC and 98/58/EC in a two year
period, in particular:
to improve pig farm management measures and supply of enrichment materials, and
to reduce routine tail-docking of pigs.
The plan includes all Member States but will focus on main EU pig producing countries and
commercial farms.
Key points
Main relevant stakeholders: activities (e.g. questionnaires, visits, information
materials, meetings) will engage competent authorities, industry and private
veterinarians.
Creation of a multidisciplinary change team: it will focus on improving processes at
farm level. Members with relevant practical expertise, credibility and direct
involvement in the processes will help Member States in assessing risks and improve
farm management conditions.
Targeted Commission audits: to main pig producing Member States in order to assess
implementation of Directive 2008/120/EC, 98/58/EC using the Commission
Recommendation and the Commission Staff Working Document as audit standard.
Request of action plans to Member States: progress will be measured with indicators.
Three stages: to test effectiveness and progress.
High level involvement: Chief Veterinary Officers will get reports on progress.
Milestones
May – Nov 2017
Commission targeted audits
Jun – Dec 2017
Creation of TAILS- a team of experts to assist in pig farm management
October 2017
1st assessment of implementation
November 2017
National authorities to present "state of play" and any initiatives to
implement Recommendation
January 2018
Member State Action Plans to improve implementation of Directives
2008/120/EC and 98/58/EC
July 2018
2nd assessment of implementation
Nov 18- Feb 19
Visits and reports- TAILS group
December 2018
Discussion in the Council
January-June 2019
Commission audits on MS Action Plans
July 2019
Presentation outcome of project