Friday, March 29, 2024

New live export requirements announced

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The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has introduced new requirements for the safe transport of livestock by sea.
MPI director-general Ray Smith is upbeat about the SOPI predictions but cautions all sectors are exposed to significantly higher costs.
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They follow an independent review into the animal welfare assurances MPI receives from exporters, led by Mike Heron QC and supported by Rear Admiral Tony Parr (retired). The review was launched after the tragic loss of the Gulf Livestock 1 in early September.

MPI director-general Ray Smith says the new requirements will apply until the incoming government can make decisions about a wider policy review of the trade.

They include a focused Maritime NZ inspection of livestock carrier ships entering New Zealand; restricting stocking density on vessels to 90% of current limits to match new Australian standards; increased requirements for voyage reporting, including daily veterinary reports during voyages; and increased minimum fodder requirements that ensure at least 20% of feed is available for unplanned delays during the voyage.

Cabinet had earlier prohibited livestock shipments until October 23, with a conditional prohibition from October 24 to November 30.

Smith says MPI is considering longer-term changes suggested by the reviewers, such as requiring more information in Animal Welfare Export Certificate (AWEC) applications and reviewing current rules, guidance and regulations.

“Advice will be provided soon to the incoming government on the wider policy review, which started in 2019, and the independent reviewers’ report will help inform that work.” Included in the advice will be further consideration of lower stock density rates for shipments.

Heron says the review found that while the system is robust, there are changes that can be made now to boost the assurances MPI receives.

Parr says livestock vessels operate according to international rules and certification, but additional New Zealand-based checks by Maritime NZ should provide extra safeguards for vessel safety.

During the conditional prohibition period MPI has discretion to consider applications for AWECs for livestock exports by sea.

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