Government’s live export ‘fix’ fails animals
The Australian Government will spend just 12 cents for every animal exported overseas for slaughter in a feeble attempt to address the massive welfare problems in countries we send animals to.
The funding announced this week for projects in the Middle East and South East Asia will be spread too thinly to make the changes needed to improve animal welfare.
While the projects are a step in the right direction, it is important that the government and industry financial contributions not be overstated – they plan on spending just 25 cents per animal – 12 cents each.
Almost every one of the 4 million plus sheep and cattle that will be exported this year will be handled and slaughtered in a manner unacceptable in Australia and to the Australian community. They will all have their throat cut while fully conscious.
The Live Trade Animal Welfare Partnership is an initiative between government and the live export industry that came about because of the poor treatment of animals in these importing countries – treatment exposed by animal welfare groups.
The RSPCA congratulates the three Government MPs: Melissa Parke, Janelle Saffin and Dick Adams, who have announced their support for the phasing-out of live sheep and cattle exports. These MPs are reflecting the views of most Australians who would like to see the live export trade end.
The economic value of live animal exports is just one seventh of global meat exports. The Australian Government’s money would be much better spent improving infrastructure in Australia and increasing our trade in chilled and frozen meat. That would be better for Australian jobs, better for our economy and much better for animals.