Flanders plans mandatory cameras in slaughter­houses

Flanders is taking a step toward mandatory cameras in slaughterhouses. The government approved the decree in principle. Most Flemish slaughterhouses have already installed cameras. They did so voluntarily or as part of certification. The footage is intended to help operators identify animal welfare issues sooner.

Deputy Minister-President Ben Weyts (N-VA) submitted the proposal to the Flemish government. The Flemish coalition agreement already provides for mandatory cameras in slaughterhouses. The decree implements Article 40 of the Flemish Animal Welfare Code.

From arrival to slaughter

The cameras must record all live animals throughout their stay at the slaughterhouse. Recording begins on arrival and ends at the moment of death. Slaughterhouse operators can use the footage to monitor animal handling more closely. They can identify any animal welfare issues sooner and then address them.

Footage for oversight

Inspectors from the Animal Welfare Division can use the footage for their oversight work. The same applies to appointed veterinarians working on behalf of the division. They can use it to detect violations of the applicable animal welfare rules and support their findings. Under the decree, slaughterhouses must retain the footage for 40 days.

Advisory opinions still pending

The Flemish government will first seek advice from the Flemish Supervisory Commission for the Processing of Personal Data. It will then submit the decree to the Council of State.

Landbouwleven.be