Saturday, 16 April 2016 13:02

Feedback sought on animal welfare proposals

Written by 
New regulations are being proposed for handling bobby calves, including raised areas for loading and trucking distance restrictions. New regulations are being proposed for handling bobby calves, including raised areas for loading and trucking distance restrictions.

The Government is seeking feedback on proposed regulations to further strengthen our animal welfare system.

"Last year the Government amended the Animal Welfare Act to improve the enforceability, clarity and transparency of the animal welfare system," says Guy.

"We are now seeking the public's views on proposed regulations that have been developed in consultation with the independent National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC)."

These proposed regulations will set enforceable rules based on best practice and modern science.

"Our animal welfare system is considered one of the best in the world. The proposed regulations will further strengthen our reputation as a country that cares for animals," says Guy.

The proposed regulations relate to the care of and conduct to animals, including:

· Infringement notices of $300 or $500 for low-level offending.

· Who may perform surgical or painful procedures on animals, and under what conditions.

· New rules for handling bobby calves, including raised areas for loading and trucking distance restrictions.

· More powers for the Director General of the Ministry for Primary Industries around reporting of animal welfare when live animals are exported for breeding purposes.

"Animal welfare matters to New Zealanders and global consumers of our products. Two-thirds of households own a pet, and animal products generate $23 billion in exports every year," says Guy.

"We know the vast majority of New Zealanders treat their animals well, whether they are farmers or pet owners. Most people who look after their animals will see little change with the proposed regulations.

"These proposals build on the additional $10 million invested in strengthening our animal welfare system in Budget 2015."

Feedback is sought on the proposals by May 19. For more information on the proposals, to make a submission or find out dates for public meetings, visit www.mpi.govt.nz 

More like this

Editorial: Agri's mojo is back

OPINION: Good times are coming back for the primary industries. From sentiment expressed at Fieldays to the latest rural confidence survey results, all indicate farmer confidence at a near-record high.

Featured

Horticulture exports hit $8.4B, surge toward $10B by 2029

A brilliant result and great news for growers and regional economies. That's how horticulture sector leaders are describing the news that sector exports for the year ended June 30 will reach $8.4 billion - an increase of 19% on last year and is forecast to hit close to $10 billion in 2029.

National

Machinery & Products

Calf feeding boost

Advantage Plastics says it is revolutionising calf meal storage and handling, making farm life easier, safer, and more efficient this…

JD's precision essentials

Farmers across New Zealand are renowned for their productivity and efficiency, always wanting to do more with less, while getting…

» Latest Print Issues Online

The Hound

Be afraid

OPINION: Your old mate hears some of the recent uptick in farmer confidence has slipped since the political polls started…

Trust us!

OPINION: Ther'es a reason politicians rank even lower than John Campbell in the most trusted profession surveys.

» Connect with Rural News

» eNewsletter

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter