ICSA calls for independent investigation into Department enforcement operation

Footage has left many farmers "shocked and looking for answers".

ICSA President Sean McNamara has called for an independent investigation into the Department of Agriculture's recent enforcement operation in which a large number of cattle were destroyed.

Mr McNamara said footage that has since emerged has left many farmers "shocked and looking for answers".

"The court case will take its own course and ICSA is not going to prejudice that process. But what is now in the public domain has raised serious questions about how this operation was planned and carried out, and those questions cannot simply be brushed aside."

He said while the Department has the authority to intervene where animal welfare is at risk, it also has a responsibility to exercise those powers in a manner that meets the highest animal welfare standards.

Referring to the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013, Mr McNamara said the obligation to protect animals from unnecessary suffering applies during enforcement operations as well as in any other circumstances.

"Farmers dedicate their lives to caring for their livestock, and they expect the same commitment to animal welfare from everyone involved when animals are taken into State control. What people have seen over recent days has seriously shaken confidence."

Mr McNamara said an independent investigation is now needed to establish how decisions were made, whether Department procedures were followed, whether all reasonable alternatives were considered before the animals were euthanised, and whether the operation was conducted appropriately.

"If mistakes were made, they need to be admitted and put right. Ignoring those questions helps nobody."

He also called on Minister Martin Heydon to state whether he is satisfied the operation met the standards expected by the Department and whether he believes an independent investigation is warranted.

Concluding, Mr McNamara said the issue extends beyond a single case.

"Every farmer in the country needs to know that when the Department exercises these powers, it does so properly. That is why an independent investigation is now essential."