The World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) has been inundated with emails and calls from members of the community outraged by the Government’s decision to resume live cattle exports to Indonesia.
The announcement by Senator Ludwig comes without any robust information on how animal welfare safeguards will be put in place, and before the Government’s own inquiry into the trade has been completed or released.
Jessica Borg, campaigns manager for the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) said, “It seems the government has knee-jerked into a hasty politically-motivated decision that will ultimately benefit no-one. Sadly the Government seems to be switching from one band-aid solution to the next, rather than focusing on the long term.”
“Responsibility for animal welfare has once again been foolishly placed into the hands of a live export industry with no genuine interest or authority for improving conditions in Indonesia.”
“What excuses are the livestock industry and Government going to make when we see new horrific footage of the same inhumane slaughter from Indonesian abattoirs in six months or a year’s time?” she concluded.
WSPA has been conducting a long-term campaign calling for a transition from live export to locally processed chilled meat export; an alternative that independent research says could deliver long-term sustainability and increased revenue for the Australian livestock industry and rural economy.
Jessica Borg said, “WSPA is not simply calling for a ban, we’re calling for the chilled meat trade to take the place of live exports. Economic analysis has shown that live exports actually cost Australia $1.5 billion in lost GDP, $270 million in lost household income and around 10,500 in lost jobs.”
“This approach is supported by the Labor Party in WA who voted at their recent party conference in support of a transition from live exports to a chilled meat trade, encouraging industry diversification and supporting a strong processing sector that in turn creates local jobs.”
“It’s time for the livestock industry and Government to rethink this industry rather than focus on short-term solutions and political outcomes. A transition from live export to a viable local processing and chilled meat export system will create a more sustainable industry that benefits animals the farming community, and the rural economy,” she concluded.
The Government needs to know that this announcement is unacceptable. WSPA is encouraging supporters to call their local MPs to express their concerns. You can find contact details for your local electorate office here: http://www.aph.gov.au/house/members/mi-alpha.asp or call into your local radio station with your views to keep this issue in the media.
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