Gavan Herlihy

National Agriculture Spokesperson

16 August 2000

Greens "all talk" on animal welfare

"The Green Party's refusal to back National's amendment to protect animals under the Employment Relations Bill proves their posturing on animal welfare issues is just political rhetoric," National Agriculture spokesperson Gavan Herlihy said today.

"When given a chance to match their words with action the Greens have come up empty handed.

"National sought the Greens' support to progress an amendment to the Employment Relations Bill that would recognise the animal welfare needs of animals in both the farming and processing sectors.

"The Poultry and Fishing Industries have raised serious concerns about the bill. The amendment, which was not supported by the Greens, would have given a limited time of three days for the welfare issues of animals who may be about to be affected by strike or lockout action to be attended to."

In the debate on the bill Mr Herlihy told the House that the lack of support from the Greens, and especially their spokesperson Sue Kedgley, proves their stance on animal welfare matters was "just ambulance chasing and photo opportunity posturing."

Ends

© Scoop Media