The government and the shearing industry have joined forces to launch a $75,000 initiative aimed at enhancing animal welfare within the sector.
This program will encompass a range of activities including workshops, online training modules, practical assessments, and the provision of resources for shearers, wool handlers, and other professionals involved in the industry.
Rural Communities Minister Mark Patterson highlighted that the decision to establish this fund was prompted by allegations of sheep mistreatment during shearing practices last December, which are currently under investigation by the Ministry for Primary Industries.
Administered by Wool Impact with oversight from a steering committee that includes the New Zealand Shearing Contractors Association, the fund aims to address the evolving market demands while upholding New Zealand’s reputation for producing top-quality wool through ethical shearing practices.
Associate Agriculture Minister Andrew Hoggard emphasized the importance of upholding New Zealand’s reputation for high animal welfare standards and the need for continuous improvement in this area.
He stated, “We have collaborated with industry stakeholders to establish a $75,000 fund to support targeted training initiatives that enhance knowledge, skills, and best practices in animal care and welfare compliance within the shearing industry.”
“The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has allocated $25,000 for the one-year pilot program, with contributions from PGG Wrightson and The New Zealand Merino Company each providing $15,000, Wool Impact contributing $15,000, and the New Zealand Shearing Contractors Association investing $5,000. The New Zealand Veterinary Association is also offering in-kind support.”
This initiative follows MPI’s previous investment of $75,000 in June in The NZ Merino Company’s Cadetship Programme, which focused on expanding cadet training and included a dedicated module on animal welfare.
