Mave your say on new animal welfare proposals

15 April 2016

The National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC) is encouraging people to have their say about new proposed animal welfare regulations, which went out for consultation yesterday.

The committee provides independent advice to government about animal welfare issues, and develops codes of welfare.

NAWAC chairman, John Hellström said the changes would give more teeth to the animal welfare system.

“They will introduce new penalties and fines to deal with offences related to a wide range of animals, from bobby calves to pet dogs.

“These proposals will help us to deal more effectively with offending of low to medium level seriousness - that’s where most of the offending takes place.

Dr Hellström said it was important that as many people as possible took part in the consultation.

“The use of animals, for everything from food to companionship, is an important part of our identity. We’ve all got a responsibility to make sure that we treat animals fairly. There will be a wide range of views on these proposals, and the government needs to hear them to get the best result for the animals.

“New Zealand has a strong animal welfare system, and by and large people treat animals well. But animal welfare is constantly evolving. We need to make sure we keep up with changes to science, technology and what is acceptable to people. These proposals are a strong step in the right direction.”

To read the proposals and to find out how to have your say, visit MPI’s website.

ENDS

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