The NPA’s desire to be on the front foot with any forthcoming reforms to indoor farrowing system was high on the agenda when the NPA’s Pig Industry Group (PIG) met online on Tuesday.
NPA senior policy adviser Katie Jarvis set out the association’s position on flexible farrowing, and the results of a member survey on a transition. With the government expected to start pushing forward on this at some point, PIG was strongly supportive of the NPA’s approach for a voluntary transition over a 20-year period.
The biggest point of discussion was over the footprint of the new pens, with some producers keen for clarity on this, so they can plan for the future and start to invest. The NPA has proposed a minimum footprint of 5.5sq.m, but PIG accepted that others will be pushing for a larger footprint. “We have proposed what we believe will deliver better welfare for the sow, while being manageable for the producer,” Katie said.
With the Building Suppliers Forum estimating a cost of £3,500-£5,000 per sow place to refurbish an existing building and £5,000-£8,000 for a new building – before planning and other associated costs – PIG highlighted the need for funding from government and the supply chain for the transition. There was concern, however, that Defra’s freeze on some grants might affect support in this area.
Also discussed
Farrowing was just one of a wide range of topics discussed by PIG. Other highlights included:
- Chief executive Lizzie Wilson updated PIG on the NPA’s work with Defra on new legislation governing contractual practice in the pig sector. Again, PIG was supportive of the general approach, with much of the discussion focusing on whether the legislation could provide meaningful protection for producers when contracts are being breached, while, at the same time, ensuring producers are not unfairly penalised when they can’t fulfil their requirements.
- There was a great deal of concern among PIG in response to an update from Lizzie on the Farming Rules for Water, with Defra carrying out a ‘fast-track’ review that includes a review of the current statutory guidance on the regulation. “We have told Defra that the statutory guidance must be retained because we just can’t comply with the legislation without it. It would be completely unfeasible,” she said.
- Vet Gemma Thwaites highlighted the serious issue of the shortages of some vaccines and medicines within the UK pig sector. Members of PIG agreed to issue a joint statement highlighting the need to ensure the UK is properly stocked with the necessary pig health products to the relevant companies and administrations.
- With a recent spate of swine dysentery cases, producers and vets expressed concern over the state of lorry washing facilities and practice at abattoirs. The NPA is looking at reviving the #MuckFreeTruck campaign to remind everyone of their responsibilities.
- Senior policy adviser Tom Haynes said there were ‘mixed signals’ coming through on whether Defra has agreed to a funding settlement that will enable Dover Port Health Authority to continue its crucial work in intercepting illegal meat imports.
You can read a fuller report HERE.