Over 14,000 sheep died yesterday (24^th November), when the Queen Hind overturned after leaving the port of Midia, off the coast of Romania.

A colossal tragedy

Despite the best efforts of rescuers on site, it has been reported that only 32 sheep were saved. This tragedy is not the first and could have been prevented. While we do not know why the vessel capsized, Compassion believes that there is no need for any farm animals to undergo these journeys. They cause enormous suffering and are completely unnecessary – animals should be slaughtered as close as possible to where they are reared.

Emma Slawinski, our Director of Campaigns and Communications says: “Every year millions of live animals are transported thousands of miles. Every year there are disasters – where animals suffer in their hundreds or thousands. This horrific trade must be stopped. We must end live exports.”

Long-distance live transport causes enormous suffering

 In particular, animals exported outside the EU are subjected to enormous suffering. As long as Europe’s leaders continue to prioritise trade over animal welfare, young calves and sheep will be the victims who pay the ultimate price.

Following this disaster, Romania’s main livestock breeder and exporter association, Acebop, has called for an urgent investigation. “Our association is shocked by the disaster,” said the Acebop president, “If we cannot protect livestock during long-distance transports, we should outright ban them.” This is further evidence that live transport should be banned – no-one can guarantee the animals’ safety and comfort, when undertaking these journeys.

Action to end live transport

The European Commission is currently complicit in the cruelty of live animal exports. Join us in calling for an end to live transport.