MEDIA RELEASE – Wednesday 31 October 2018
Moss Review Release Welcomed But Live Sheep Exports Need To End
Independent Candidate for Wentworth Dr Kerryn Phelps has welcomed the release today of the Moss Review into the capability and culture of the live export regulator.
The review finds that regulation of the industry does not meet community expectations and that the Department of Agriculture needs to strengthen its regulatory capability and culture.
This would include the establishment of an Inspector-General of Live Animal Exports to provide independent oversight and evaluation of the live animal export regulator and the regulatory system.
However, Dr Phelps said her position on moving to phase out live sheep exports was unchanged.
"The release of the Moss Review does nothing to change my view that live sheep exports must be phased out," Dr Phelps said.
"If I am declared the winner of the Wentworth by-election, it is my intention to enter Parliament with the view to try to bring an end to live sheep exports.
"The live sheep export industry has had plenty of chances to lift its game and in my view is beyond redemption.
"Having seen footage of live sheep being transported to the Middle East in terrible conditions I see no justification for this inhumane trade.
"It is shocking and cruel that these animals spend weeks in extreme heat and overcrowded conditions with many dying on the way to their destination."
A poll conducted on September 20 by Animals Australia in the seat of Wentworth and subsequently released during the by-election campaign found the following:
· 87.4% of people surveyed in the electorate of Wentworth said animal welfare is an issue of importance to them
· 87.5% of people surveyed in the electorate of Wentworth believe animals should be provided with humane treatment
· 72.2% of people surveyed in the electorate of Wentworth said they support a phase out of live sheep exports
