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Spotlight on live export animal welfare
19 Jun 2003
A letter published in the Australian Veterinary Association's journal has highlighted animal welfare issues relating to cattle exported from Australia to Egypt on board the ship Maysora, as well as the "less-than-desirable" slaughter process in Egyptian abattoirs.
The letter, written by UK vet Petra Sidhom, accuses Livecorp of not acting on animal welfare issues. Industry stakeholders are worried that the publicity around the letter will be a catalyst for the "60 Minutes" TV program to fast-track its proposed edition on the live export trade.
Livecorp has responded by rejecting Dr Sidhom's claims and said the industry has funded measures to improve Egyptian slaughter conditions, including suitable holding boxes. CEO Kevin Shiell said Livecorp is working co-operatively with Middle Eastern and Asian import authorities to influence change.
If Australia weren't supplying animals to these destinations its ability to influence animal handling practices would be severely curtailed and the trade would be replaced by countries which have no desire or ability to effect any change at all, Mr Shiell said.
Queensland Country Life, 19/6/03.
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