Gavan Herlihy
National Agriculture Spokesperson
16 August 2000
Greens "all talk" on animal welfare
"The Green Party's refusal to back National's amendment to protect animals under the Employment Relations Bill proves
their posturing on animal welfare issues is just political rhetoric," National Agriculture spokesperson Gavan Herlihy
said today.
"When given a chance to match their words with action the Greens have come up empty handed.
"National sought the Greens' support to progress an amendment to the Employment Relations Bill that would recognise the
animal welfare needs of animals in both the farming and processing sectors.
"The Poultry and Fishing Industries have raised serious concerns about the bill. The amendment, which was not supported
by the Greens, would have given a limited time of three days for the welfare issues of animals who may be about to be
affected by strike or lockout action to be attended to."
In the debate on the bill Mr Herlihy told the House that the lack of support from the Greens, and especially their
spokesperson Sue Kedgley, proves their stance on animal welfare matters was "just ambulance chasing and photo
opportunity posturing."
Ends