11 March 2016

MPI’s blinkers on over bobby calf abuse

The Ministry of Primary Industries’ refusal to take action over the abuse of bobby calves despite being warned five years ago, shows the super Ministry is incapable of properly overseeing the sector, Labour’s Primary Industries spokesperson Damien O’Connor says.

“It has been revealed that a 2011 report raised serious issues about the abuse of bobby calves on some dairy farms.

“This maltreatment has the potential to cause serious damage the international reputation of our diary industry.

“The dairy sector must take responsibility for the welfare of all animals across the entire food chain.

“The merger of animal welfare, food safety and biosecurity agencies has left the Primary Industries Ministry lacking the expertise to deal with an issue such as this. This has been exacerbated by the departure of disillusioned senior staff in recent years.

“The Ministry must do all it can to stamp out the abuse of these vulnerable animals now,” Damien O’Connor says.

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