News
Statement - Management of Noncompliance
This week the South East Australian Livestock Services (SEALS) has self-reported instances of non-compliance in Indonesia to the Department of Agriculture, Water and Environment (DAWE).
This self-report is made following extensive examination of SEALS supply chains. Through this process we were able to identify two cattle being slaughtered in a manner inconsistent with Export Supply Chain Assurance System (ESCAS) standards and that these cattle were part of SEALS ESCAS supply chains.
SEALS has removed our cattle from the facilities in question to another approved ESACS facility and the cattle are under the observation and supervision of animal welfare officers.
We take responsibility for these circumstances and commit to working with DAWE throughout this investigation. When the investigation is complete that information will be released publicly.
Over the last decade, SEALS has supplied more than 400,000 head of cattle to the South East Asian market building a successful business relationship with Indonesian importers and Australian producers that supply cattle. We thank our partners for their support during this challenging situation.
South East Asian Livestock Services
The following comments are attributable to the Australian Livestock Exporters’ Council CEO Mark Harvey-Sutton.
“It is important that when these isolated instances occur, direct and transparent action is taken by exporters.”
“Exporters take any noncompliance very seriously and ALEC will continue to assist SEALS and the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (DAWE) throughout the investigation.”
“Animal welfare is the key priority for the livestock export industry and Australian Livestock Exporters’ Council (ALEC) member exporters go to great lengths to ensure animal welfare is of the highest standard.”
“The exporter is undertaking the appropriate steps to engage the facility and investigate why the handling of the cattle and subsequent noncompliance occurred.”
Please direct any media to
Mobile: 0476 844 886
Email: media@livexcouncil.com.au