Motion introduced by MEP Aldo Patriciello :
Motion for a European Parliament resolution on the illegal trade in animals
The European Parliament,
– having regard to the 1973 Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora,
– whereas the UN has declared 3 March World Wildlife Day,
– having regard to Rule 133 of its Rules of Procedure,
A. whereas the Italian non-governmental organisation LAV marked World Wildlife Day 2015 by drawing attention to the current boom in the illegal trade in animals, which now generates an annual turnover of between USD 8 and 10 billion (roughly EUR 9 billion);
B. whereas the illegal trade in protected species and products derived from them is particularly big business in the European Union, and whereas Italy has a shameful record when it comes to the trapping, killing and marketing of protected species of fauna and flora, in particular for the Asian and African markets;
1. Calls on the Commission to take as soon as possible steps to combat the illegal trade in animals, including via the internet, effectively and ensure that traffickers are punished appropriately.
