Through
its Code of Conduct and Code of Ethics, OFI affords the welfare of
aquatic livestock top priority at all stages of the transportation
chain, from point of origin, to final destination. Compliance with IATA
Live Animals Regulations with regard to packing and handling
procedures, results in the vast majority of ornamental aquatic
livestock enjoying global trouble-free transportation. However, on
occasions (but on an infrequent basis), consignments may become
stranded in transit at airports, owing to missed
flight connections, arrival outside veterinary inspection centre
opening hours, essential documentation going astray, or several other
factors. At such times, the welfare of the livestock could be placed at
risk, particularly if delays prove excessive. In order to avoid such
situations from developing into crises, arrangements exist in a number
of countries for stranded consignments to be rescued.
OFI members form part of these 'rescue
services', abiding, in so doing, by our 'Stranded Shipments Resolution'
passed at our AGM, held in Singapore on 24 May 1995, which states: "OFI
members will not refuse a shipment they have ordered, despite delays,
strandings or for any other reason. The welfare of the stock must
receive top priority, with an investigation into matters such as who
was responsible for the delays, or the lodging of insurance claims,
following later." To assist further in reducing risks to the
welfare of ornamental fish and other aquatic creatures whenever and
wherever strandings do occur, we are pleased to publish a list of OFI
members who are available 24 hours a day to rescue such consignments
(see menu to the left).
To minimise delays in locating a
suitable 'rescuer', we are including details regarding the type of
consignment that the listed members are best equipped to rescue, along
with other relevant contact information. Should a rescue become
necessary, relevant parties should contact the listed OFI members
direct. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO ESTABLISH CONTACT WITH SUCH MEMBERS
INDIRECTLY VIA THE OFI SECRETARIAT, UNLESS ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY, SINCE
THIS COULD RESULT IN FURTHER DELAYS, WHICH COULD, IN TURN, COMPROMISE
THE WELFARE OF THE LIVESTOCK. The whole purpose of the scheme is to save fish by reducing the stresses associated with delays.
This rescue service is offered FREE OF CHARGE
and is applicable to shipments which - once rescued and
re-acclimatised, or medicated as appropriate (at the 'rescuer's'
expense in terms of personnel, vehicles, medications, aquarium space,
etc.) - will then be sold on by the rescuer. If, however, the service
required involves other considerations, such as de-bagging,
re-oxygenation, re-conditioning, re-packing and/or subsequent
forwarding to the original destination, there will be a charge, the
level of which will need to be established with the OFI member
concerned.
OFI members who are participating in the Rescue Service are listed to the left, by country.
