Numerous investigations by the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment (DPIPWE) into animal welfare cases have stalled. The Animal Justice Party demands answers and insists the situation must change.
“The current situation is wholly unacceptable. The public, and animals, deserve so much better.” said Chris Simcox, Animal Justice Party candidate for the Legislative Council division of Hobart.
Ongoing investigations into the death of 16 polo ponies on the Spirit of Tasmania, and extreme cruelty in two slaughterhouses, appear to have no end in sight. Recurrences of these concerning situations are possible while the wait for answers continues.
“This under-resourcing shows the lack of commitment by the Liberal government to animal welfare issues” said Mr Simcox. “There is also a clear conflict of interest in the DPIPWE handling such investigations, highlighting the need for a properly resourced independent body.”
“We are left wondering why so much secrecy surrounds these investigations, and whether they have something to hide. The government has been secretive on a number of fronts that concern the public, including their contentious gun control policy, funding for their election campaign, and their dealings with proponents of the cable car. This is another example of the secretive workings of the government, and animals are suffering as a result.” said Mr Simcox.
The AJP demands transparency in the investigation of animal cruelty issues.
Chris Simcox, Animal Justice Party, Candidate for Hobart Animal Justice Party Tasmania animaljusticeparty.org/tas
