We see them all the time. Transport vehicles rolling down our highways with row upon row of stacked cages full of chickens or trailers stuffed with cows or pigs, poking their noses through the air vents.

Yet, some hope is on the horizon. On Oct. 28, Liberal MP Alexander Mendes of Brossard – La Prarie in Quebec and Guelph Liberal MP Frank Valeriote took a laudable first step to improve the lives of Canadian farm animals during long distance transport and protect the health of Canadians. Mendes introduced Bill C- 468 to amend the transportation of animals regulations and shorten transport times, bringing them in line with those of the European Union. Valeriote seconded the bill, which was also supported by NDP MP Alex Atamanenko of British Columbia. The bill has received first reading in the House of Commons.

Read the full column in the Guelph Mercury.