Mandatory stunning still alive

The Independent Member for Denison, Andrew Wilkie, will push ahead with a Private Member’s Bill to legislate animal welfare standards in the live export industry including mandatory stunning of animals before slaughter.

Responding to the release of the Farmer review, Mr Wilkie said he was bitterly disappointed the Federal Government had shied away from mandatory stunning which would have ensured all Australian animals exported overseas were unconscious prior to slaughter.

“The Government’s confirmation today that it will only encourage stunning says to the industry that it’s OK for un-stunned slaughter, the cruellest aspect of live export, to continue,’’ Mr Wilkie said.

“My hope that the Government would show a greater interest in animal welfare and public opinion was misplaced.

“I now look forward to the Parliamentary debate on my Bill, which I’m confident has the support of millions of Australians.’’

Mr Wilkie did welcome the move towards full traceability of all exported animals through a controlled supply chain and the investment of $10m to improve welfare standards overseas.

Mr Wilkie has already given notice of the Livestock Export (Animal Welfare Conditions) Bill 2011, which is due for debate next month.