May 17 2018 McCarthy Review provides framework for sustainable live export The WA Opposition has welcomed the release of the review of live sheep export, initiated by the Federal Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud. Shadow Minister for Agriculture and Food Ian Blayney said the McCarthy Review provided a framework for live sheep exports to continue. “Dr McCarthy has made 23 recommendations aimed at improving animal welfare and heat stress mitigation and I am pleased that the Federal Minister has accepted all of those recommendations,” Mr Blayney said. “I am confident the model, which assesses the risk of heat stress rather than mortality, is more appropriate. “The appointment of an Independent Regulator to provide oversight and further assessment seems to be a practical way forward to me and will provide some certainty to the industry that this trade can continue. “No-one who watched the footage of distressed and dying sheep could fail to be shocked by their circumstance. “Reducing the stocking density by up to 28 per cent will give sheep 39 per cent more space. Mr Blayney welcomed the tough new penalties that will apply to exporters who put profit before the welfare of their livestock. “I am also pleased independent observers will be placed on every voyage carrying either sheep or cattle, reporting back daily to the Independent Regulator. “I am confident that the independent audit of on- board ship ventilation systems being done before the calculation of acceptable stocking density, is a way to judge each ship’s ventilation independently, which is very important.” Mr Blayney believes the recommendations of Dr McCarthy will deliver a significant change in the approach to animal welfare and will provide a strong incentive for exporters to invest in improving live export boats. “Dr McCarthy’s review provides a framework for the humane transport of animals to our trading partners overseas, and supports our Western Australian farmers who rely on this trade, without need for a northern summer ban,” Mr Blayney said. Media Contact |
