On 21 March, the Czech authorities resumed border controls with Slovakia to protect against the spread of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD). At the same time, they introduced a ban on the transport of animals susceptible to the virus from Slovakia, as well as animal products, reports the Czech transport organisation ČESMAD Bohemia.
According to the regulation of the Czech State Veterinary Administration, it is prohibited to import cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, and other species of animals susceptible to FMD (foot-and-mouth disease) from Slovakia into the territory of the Czech Republic. The import ban also applies to raw animal products originating from these animals and biological materials.
The reason for the introduction of the measures is the confirmed cases of foot-and-mouth disease in Slovakia.
Border controls
ČESMAD Bohemia emphasises that haulies transporting animals or animal products susceptible to infection must undergo checks at the borders between the Czech Republic and Slovakia.
These checks are carried out by official veterinarians or members of the Police and Customs Service of the Czech Republic. According to the organisation, in the case of the transport of animals susceptible to infection, the haulie must present a document confirming the disinfection of the means of transport and documents concerning the animals (e.g. TRACES certificate). When transporting products of animal origin, it is necessary to present the appropriate documents (e.g. TRACES certificate) in paper or electronic form.
In addition, haulies are obliged to provide the necessary cooperation during inspections, including, if necessary, allowing samples to be taken from animals.
The haulie is also obliged to disinfect the vehicle after transportation.
Harsh fines
Failure to comply with the obligations arising from these emergency veterinary measures may result in a fine of up to:
a) CZK 100,000 (approx. €4,000) – if it is a natural person,
b) CZK 2 million (approx. €80,000) – if it is a legal person or a natural person conducting business activity.
Border controls in Germany
Meanwhile, regular border controls, as previously announced, have been extended by Germany. The restrictions were due to expire on 15 March, but the German authorities have extended controls on all borders until 15 September this year.
The German government cites serious threats to public safety and public order due to the continuing high levels of illegal migration and migrant smuggling, and the strain on the asylum system as the reason. Checks are being carried out at the land borders with France, Luxembourg, Belgium, the Netherlands, Denmark, Austria, Switzerland, the Czech Republic, and Poland.