August 22, 2018 Opportunity for live export industry to reset and restart The announcement today that Australia’s largest live sheep exporter Emanuel Exports has had its licence cancelled is an opportunity for the sector to reset and restart under new and better regulations, according to Shadow Agriculture Minister Ian Blayney. “Live sheep exports are crucial to Western Australia’s rural economy and this decision should mark a new and better beginning for the industry,” Mr Blayney said. “I’m encouraged that Emanuel will appeal their licence cancellation but they have some work to do to convince the Government they should get their licence back. “Exemplary animal welfare standards must be upheld throughout the supply chain and while Emanuel Exports clearly did not meet those expected standards I am confident there are operators who can and will meet those standards.” Mr Blayney said he would encourage other export operators to do their sums and get the industry up and operating again as soon as possible. “With the peak of the summer in the Gulf region over, the worst of the weather conditions have passed and there is a favourable operating window for exporters to work in,” Mr Blayney said. “I understand that exporters have concerns around the McCarthy recommendations regarding stocking density, but I would encourage them to work through those concerns to get this industry up and running again as soon as possible. “I encourage the State Government to work constructively with both producers and exporters to build the confidence needed to get this critical rural industry back on its feet.” Ends |
