Gippsland › Latest news › Emma Kealy MP
Recent threats to Victorian agriculture like avian flu and foot and mouth disease must be addressed by Andrews Labor government
Victorian producers cannot be left vulnerable to another biosecurity crisis as the number of avian influenza infections continue to grow across the UK.
In 2020 the Victorian poultry industry was on high alert as infected birds were found at six farms in the state. Shadow Minister for Agriculture, Emma Kealy, said the industry needed certainty that the Andrews government was prepared to protect the industry should another incursion occur. "Throughout the past two years the UK has faced its largest outbreak of avian flu, and it's important we maintain Victoria's biosecurity."
Avian influenza is a notifiable disease, if you know of or suspect that any of your birds have caught it, you must report this to the authority to help keep the avian flu under control
Ensure the agricultural industry
Ms Kealy said, "Victorian producers have stared down the barrel of a Foot and Mouth Disease threat, which continues to try and push its way onto Australian shores. The agriculture industry is worth more than $85 billion to the Victorian economy, a threat can present itself without notice so the government must always be ready to act."
Ms Kealy said preparation was key to ensuring Victoria's agriculture industry didn't come to a standstill. "Our primary producers need certainty in the face of biosecurity threats. While Australia remained FMD free, it caused significant disruptions for producers," Ms Kealy said.
"Despite continuing threats to Victorian agriculture, the Andrews government ripped 145 jobs out of Agriculture Victoria - decreasing capacity of the department and its ability to provide valuable services and expertise to the industry. The Andrews Labor government needs to ensure Agriculture Victoria is adequately staffed and funded to protect our producers and ensure Victorians have safe access to food and fibre." Ms Kealy concluded.
Pictures from Agriculture Victoria Facebook page.
Source: http://gippsland.com/
Published by: news@gippsland.com
Latest News
Cann River fire damages three commercial properties and burns popular Squires Cafe to groundCommunity feedback wanted for the Wellington Shire Draft Budget 2024/25 by 29 May 2024
Appreciation to Bairnsdale volunteers for their support during Gippsland Rotary Centenary House fundraiser extended by Darren Chester
Baw Baw residents will get new purple-lidded glass bins collected separately every four weeks to better recycling process from October 2024
Exhibition by artist Matthew Bagley is captivating journey into ocean conservation at Berninneit Art Gallery
Outward Bound Australia praised by Darren Chester for their effort to revitalise Gippsland outdoor education
Penny Glover from Guthridge Primary School presented with John Printz OAM Award in front of a huge crowd at Sale Memorial Hall
Upgrades to Kalimna Hill trail in Lakes Entrance prioritises safety and accessibility for walker
Baw Baw Shire Council funds 28 community groups total of $105,303 from Community Grants Program
Free Masterclass sessions to promote safe and sustainable community events in Lakes Entrance and Bairnsdale over May 2024