Friday, 17 January 2025 14:08

MPI investigation finds 'concerning' instances

Written by  Staff Reporters
MPI is working with wool sector groups to establish an oversight group to support good animal welfare practice and continuous improvement in the industry. MPI is working with wool sector groups to establish an oversight group to support good animal welfare practice and continuous improvement in the industry.

The first phase of a Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) investigation into allegations of mistreatment of sheep connected to shearing practices has been completed.

The investigation follows claims from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) of shearers kicking and beating sheep on a farm linked to former American TV show host Matt Lauer.

MPI director compliance and response, Glen Burrell says the animal welfare team at MPI has analysed 235 video files and continue to speak to PETA, industry groups and farm owners.

They have also made “proactive” visits to farms, he says.

“I want to thank everyone for their support and cooperation so far,” Burrell says.

“We have identified some instances in the video footage which are very concerning, and these are our focus in the next phase of the investigation,” he says.

“There are a range of actions we can take in response, to ensure the protection of animals and to hold those who mistreat animals to account. In this case it could include prosecution and disqualifying individuals from working with animals.”

Separate to the investigation, MPI is working with wool sector groups to establish an oversight group to support good animal welfare practice and continuous improvement in the industry.

More like this

Top ag scientist to advise PM

A highly experienced agricultural scientist with specialist knowledge of the dairy sector is the Prime Minister's new Chief Science Advisor.

Controls lifted at poultry farm

Movement controls have been lifted from Mainland Poultry’s Hillgrove Farm in Otago, after the successful eradication of H7N6 strain of high pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).

Featured

Editorial: Time for common sense

OPINION: The case of four Canterbury high country stations facing costly and complex consent hearing processes highlights the dilemma facing the farming sector as the country transitions into a replacement for the Resource Management Act (RMA).

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

Are they serious?

OPINION: The Greens aren’t serious people when it comes to the economy, so let’s not spend too much on their…

A hurry up!

OPINION: PM Chris Luxon is getting pinged lately for rolling out the old 'we're still a new government' line when…

» Connect with Rural News

» eNewsletter

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter