Vol. 432 No. 5
75 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry if his attention has been drawn to the concern expressed by organisations such as Compassion in World Farming and the Joint Animal Aid Committee regarding the cruelty involved in live cattle shipments; if he considers this matter urgent; and if he will give any changes in policy he might consider in this regard.
I am aware of the views of the organisations to which the Deputy refers. Under current arrangements, cattle are inspected by my Department's veterinary staff before export to determine their fitness to travel. The suitability of the carrying vessels and arrangements for the welfare of the animals while in transit, including the adequacy of feed and water stocks, must also satisfy my Department's requirements. In addition, Department inspectors travel with consignments from time to time in order to monitor conditions on board and to ensure that the animals arrive in good condition.
The balance of exports has shifted significantly from cattle to beef, but the retention of some live trade is important in the context of decreasing access to intervention.
