FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 25 MAY 2010

Sentence Sends Strong Message

The Poultry Industry Association and the Egg Producer’s Federation have welcomed the sentencing today of Gerard van den Bogaart for offences under the Animal Welfare Act and the Animal Products Act.

Mr. van den Bogaart pleaded guilty to six offences, and was sentenced to one year in prison, ordered to pay almost $10,000, and disqualified from keeping chickens for ten years.

The Executive Director of the Poultry Industry Association of New Zealand (PIANZ) and the Egg Producer’s Federation of New Zealand (EPFNZ), Michael Brooks, said the sentence reflected the severity of the offences.

“Animal welfare and food safety are paramount for PIANZ and the EPF. Mr. van den Bogaart was not a member of either industry association. His activities were well below the standards expected in the New Zealand poultry industry.

“As soon as we became aware of his illegal activities, we notified the New Zealand Food Safety Authority (NZFSA) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) and asked for action to be taken. We are pleased to see the results of their investigations come to fruition.”

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