Minister Tina Joemat-Pettersson to address media on the lifting of the ban on SA red meat and and how country will maintain this
The Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries will make a formal announcement on the World Organisation for Animal Health's (OiE) decision to lift the ban on meat imports for South Africa. For three years, there was a ban on South African red meat because of foot-and-mouth disease.
A National Agricultural Marketing Council report indicated that R4 billion worth of revenue to have been lost. It is estimated that though this will not be up immediately, the steady increase to achieve this in the next 12 months will be seen.
The Minister will inform journalists on how the department will maintain the status, focusing on three main components, namely: the provision of primary animal health care for rural areas, compulsory community service for new veterinary graduates and the Department of Home Affairs' strengthening of border controls.
Media is requested to RSVP to Palesa Mokomele on PalesaM@daff.gov.za or call 082 904 1908. Media is required to bring proof of identification.
NB: There will be a video-link to GCIS media briefing room, Tshedimosetso House, 1035 Francis Baard, Corner Festival Street, Hatfield, Pretoria
Details of the press conference are as follows:
Date: Wednesday, 19 February 2014
Venue: Imbizo Media Centre, 120 Plein Street
Time: 12h00
Enquiries:
Palesa Mokomele
Spokesperson for the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
Tel: 012 319 7876 (PTA)
Fax: 012 319 6681 (PTA)
Tel: 021 467 4502 (CPT)
Fax: 021 465 6550 (CPT)
Cell: 082 904 1908
E-mail: PalesaM@daff.gov.za
