Journal of Biotechnology & Biomaterials
Open Access

Abstract

The use of animals in any field-be it food, work, entertainment or scientific purposes-continues to attract the attention of individuals with interest in their welfare. Of relevance to the biotechnology industry is the use of live animals for testing, research and training because of the potential harm and distress which may compromise their wellbeing. In Singapore, national guidelines regulating the use of animals for scientific purposes are currently being revised to further enhance animal welfare and promote good science. The National Advisory Committee on Laboratory Animal Research (NACLAR) was established in 2003 to formulate a set of national policies and standards regulating the acquisition, housing and utilization of laboratory animals in biomedical research. It also sought to address related scientific, ethical and legal issues pertaining to the use of animals within the biotechnology industry. Shortly after the publication of NACLAR�s guidelines, the AgriFood and Veterinary Authority announced-The Animals and Birds (Care for the use of animals for Scientific Purposes) Rules which legislated compulsory licensing of animal research facilities. To this day, these measures maintain a high standard of animal welfare within Singapore�s biotechnology industry. This poster depicts a historical perspective on the development of guidelines and regulations in Singapore relating to the use of animals for scientific purposes and illustrates enhancements to the first edition of the NACLAR Guidelines currently being deliberated to improve animal welfare.

Biography

Leslie Retnam has completed his Bachelor of Veterinary Science from the University of Queensland, Australia and Masters in Laboratory Animal Science from Hahnemann University, Philadelphia, USA. He is Director of Veterinary Services at Biological Resource Centre, Agency for Science, Research and Technology, Singapore. He is also Council Member with the AAALAC International and serves on a number of animal and veterinary related committees in Singapore