Following last night’s ABC Lateline investigation into horrific acts of animal cruelty at a NSW abattoir the RSPCA is once again calling for CCTV to be installed in all abattoirs.
“The vision we witnessed last night highlighted disturbing acts of animal cruelty and is a clear reminder of the need for CCTV to be installed in these facilities,” said David O’Shannessy, RSPCA NSW Chief Inspector.
“What goes on in abattoirs is too often out of sight and out of mind. Installing CCTV sends a strong signal to those people working with animals that animal welfare is of the highest priority and that cruelty will not be tolerated.
“I have no doubt staff within Ingham’s will be shocked and horrified, as we were, by the events that took place in this facility. Ingham’s undertaking to review its animal welfare standards and improve staff training is one step towards addressing this problem, but installing CCTV is a crucial tool in identifying poor practice and driving out cruelty and they should commit to this as part of their review process.
“CCTV does not replace the need to hire people with the right attitude towards animals, provide comprehensive staff training and ensure good stockmanship. But it is an excellent means by which facility management and auditors can monitor compliance with standards and regulations relating to animal welfare.
“It allows problem areas to be identified and promptly addressed.
“The people identified in this footage are clearly unfit to work with animals and need to be investigated under the Animal Welfare Act,” said Mr O’Shannessy.
Media contacts:
Lukas Picton – 0488 905 353
Elise Meakin - 0419 748 907
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