April 9, 2018 Zero tolerance for exporters failing to meet welfare standards The Western Australian Liberal Opposition condemns any form of cruelty to animals and calls for zero tolerance of companies that fail to meet regulated welfare standards for the transport of live animals. Shadow Minister for Agriculture Ian Blayney said he, like all right-minded Western Australians, found the weekend vision of the mistreatment of animals on the live sheep carrier Awassi Express extremely disturbing. “No West Australian could look at that footage and not be deeply upset,” he said. “The footage is proof that not all operators are adhering to the high standards that are regulated and there should be no leeway for those operators. “We cannot allow this type of cruelty to happen and we cannot jeopardise what is a multi-million dollar export industry for this State.” Mr Blayney said live exports were crucial to the long-term sustainability of the sheep industry in WA and rigid enforcement of standards was crucial for the sustainability of the live export trade. “We have to get this right,” Mr Blayney said. “WA farmers produce approximately 4 million lambs every year and it is live exports that underpin the viability of the sector, ensuring jobs for thousands of Western Australians. “There is not one farmer I know that would not be upset by the pictures of distressed sheep that were aired over the weekend. “All farmers I know have a strong commitment to the ethical treatment of their stock and would welcome total transparency from the industry regarding the health and welfare of their animals through to their final destinations. “We have the regulations and standards in place, they must be enforced.” Media Contact |
