Australian Vets Call for Review of Live Exports After Abuse Scandal

AUSTRALIA - The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA), has described the vision of Australian cattle being bludgeoned in a slaughterhouse in Vietnam as shocking and completely unacceptable.

20 June 2016

1 minute read

Oceania

“Like all Australians, veterinarians were shocked and horrified by the images of the inhumane treatment of Australian livestock shown on the ABC’s 7.30,” said AVA President, Dr Robert Johnson.

“Any breaches of the Export Supply Chain Assurance Scheme (ESCAS) need to be taken seriously, and sanctions imposed. We welcome the government’s announced investigation and expect appropriate, swift and effective action to be taken.

“Animal welfare standards need to be continually improving”, Dr Johnson said.

“If the systems intended to protect animal welfare fail, there needs to be an urgent response.”

The AVA has called for improvements to ESCAS as part of its 2016 federal election policy platform.

“We believe ESCAS should be reviewed regularly and animal welfare standards should be continuously improved over time, with the involvement of veterinarians.

“We also believe that the animals’ welfare can only be assured during their voyage with a truly independent veterinarian on every live export vessel who can report on animal health and welfare without fear or favour.”