The Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) has noted activities of various animal welfare organisations and members of the public regarding opposition to the shipment of live animals by sea.
Although the department commits to maintaining animal welfare standards, there is currently no legislative basis for preventing exports of live ruminants by sea. The department, however, utilises suitable legislation to ensure that the animals in question are appropriately treated and transported in a suitable vessel through prior inspection of the vessel and conditions of quarantine.
The department has engaged with its Mauritian counterpart to ensure that the animals arrive safely and are appropriately fed and watered upon arrival in Mauritius.
The department is commencing with a legislative process to review the current legislation and will appreciate input into this process.
For media enquiries please contact:
Mr Steve Galane
Acting Chief Director: Stakeholder Relations and Communications
Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
Tel.: 012 319 7312
Cell: 083 635 7346
E-mail: SteveGAL@daff.gov.za
