Media Release 6 November 2006

Experts of Industry to Advise on GI Bill

The Geographical Indications (Wine and Spirits) Registration Bill is set be debated at committee level tomorrow (7 November).

The Distilled Spirits Association is urging the Government to proceed with an amendment, which would ensure that the Registrar appoints persons with specialist spirits (and wine) knowledge to the geographical indications committee.

As it currently stands, the Bill leaves it to the Registrar’s discretion to call in expert advice from the drinks industry, only “if he thinks fit”.

Thomas Chin, chief executive of the Distilled Spirits Association, who has made an extensive submission to the Bill, says the omission of a spirit specialist on the committee would be simply insufficient and ineffective.

“Only people working in the industry on a daily basis can truly understand the specific and unique issues we face. In order to be absolutely precise and effective, it is necessary for the committee to have mandatory input from industry representatives who have this specialist knowledge and expertise.”

“By enabling spirit (and wine) industry representatives to sit alongside the Registrar, specialist technical and operational counsel on the GI registration and alteration processes will be provided, ultimately resulting in more thorough and robust decision making,” says Mr Chin.

Mr Chin is hopeful that the committee with heed this advice and proceed with adopting the amendment.

ENDS

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