by Nilanka G

Since ABC1′s Four Corners revealed the ugly truth concerning the brutality of life animal exports, there has been a tremendous public outcry. In response to this public outcry, Agriculture Minister, Joe Ludwig announcing a temporary ban on live exports to Indonesia effected through the Export Control (Export of Live-stock to the Republic of Indonesia) Order 2011. But the ban being merely temporary, failed to please the animal activists and the concerned members of the public. The temporary ban also raised economic issues unsettling the cattle industry and those who rely on the export.

A deep seated issue embedded in the live animal export industry is that animal rights are difficult to regulate, largely because there are inadequate laws to give a voice to the ‘voiceless’. ‘Voiceless’ is a not for profit organisation focused on reducing animal suffering, giving a voice to the creatures. To learn more about the issue or to make your voice be heard visit: http://www.voiceless.org.au/About_Us/Breaking_News/Resumption_of_Trade.html

On the other hand, others argue that the idea of animal rights is divorced from reality and that a ban on live animal exports is an unrealistic expectation that is commercially crippling. Thus, in August 2011, a ban on live animal export failed to gain the support in the House of Representatives.

Because the animals are treated as property, once the property is sold, they become subject to the laws of that country.[1] Thus, Australia would not have any control of the goods once sold to Indonesia or any other country. The concern stems from the fact that the countries that Australia export animals to, do not have adequate laws to protect them from brutal treatment.[2]

World Organisation for Animal Health provides guidelines to the signatory nations concerning the slaughtering of animals. Both Australia and Indonesia are signatory to this treaty at present. But some view this as a tactic motivated by commercial concerns and some others believe that it was merely a quick fix to resume trade. Further, the regulations of such international laws are notoriously difficult and many are left wondering whether the cattle will still be subject to the same inhumane treatment revealed by the ABC1. Thus, this remains a live issue awaiting reconciliation between animal rights and economic needs.