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Reprieve for Portland, Adelaide live-ex ports
31 Mar 2004
The Federal Government will not close the Portland and Adelaide live animal export ports during the northern hemisphere summer, despite the recommendation of the Keniry review to do so. Agriculture Minister Warren Truss unveiled the Government's $11 million, four-year response to the Keniry review of the live trade yesterday.
Tough new conditions will be imposed, self-regulation will end and the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service will be given controls over licences and export permits.
Exporters will be required to establish approved animal handling systems and develop risk management plans for each consignment. Feedlot operators and exporters must take extra measures to reduce the risks of animal stress and mortalities. Restrictions will be placed on where animals can be sourced from, with NSW and other northern areas ruled out due to climate and transport issues.
AQIS-approved vets will travel on all ships and a full-time vet will be employed in the Middle East. Quarantine holding facilities will be set up in each market and the Australian Government has committed itself to improving abattoir and handling facilities in the region.
Weekly Times, 31/3/04, page 9.
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