Animal welfare regulation critical, says minister

He told Dairy News that NZ earns $23 billion from animal related exports and consumers are now much more connected to what is happening on our farms.

Guy says NZ is a world leader in food safety and is doing more than ever in environmental matters. And it is equally important that we look after our animals: this matters to our international reputation.

"Most NZ farmers look after their animals very well and they won't notice any significant changes but those few scallywags who don't will have to pull up their socks."

The new regulations follow the passing last year of an amendment to the Animal Welfare Act, designed to improve the enforceability, clarity and transparency of the animal welfare system. Proposed regulations setting out in detail what farmers need to do have been developed in consultation with the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC).

Guy says the 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."

The proposed regulations relate to the care of and conduct towards animals and include:

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 on reporting of animal welfare when live animals are exported for breeding purposes.

Feedback is sought on the proposals by 19 May.