MiniSter flies out to shore up new live export rules

 

MEDIA ALERT - January 24, 2012

The Minister for Agriculture, Joe Ludwig, is this week travelling to the Middle East to discuss animal welfare standards with regards to live exports.

World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) comment:

Jodie Jankevics, Campaign Manager, WSPA:

"WSPA salutes Minister Ludwig's efforts towards animal welfare, but we feel that his time and effort is being wasted here. Demand for live exports is rapidly decreasing as Australians have come to realise the impact that this inhumane practice has on animals.

"Why doesn't the Minister focus on animals processed in Australia, which supports manufacturing jobs in rural and regional areas? The economic advantages are irrefutable - a sheep processed in Australia is worth 20% more than one processed overseas.

"Thousands of sheep die each year on board live export vessels from starvation and disease. We are killing animals and leaking money. The Minister needs to re-focus on the chilled meat trade, which is better for Australia and better for the sheep and cattle".

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For interviews or more information please contact:

Rafi Cooper, T: 02 9902 8013, raficooper@wspa.org.au