New laws in by Christmas

NRE steps up help for TT-Line

THE Department of Natural Resources and Energy (NRE) says new regulations governing the transportation of livestock will be in place “before Christmas”.

The new rules come in the wake of Spirit of Tasmania operator TT-Line being found guilty by Burnie Magistrate Leanne Topfer of 29 breaches of animal welfare standards after 16 polo ponies owned by Andrew Williams – who pleaded guilty to 17 charges – cooked alive on an overnight Bass Strait trip on January 28, 2018.

TT-Line – which has appealed – responded to Ms Topfer’s decision by suspending all livestock transportation across the Strait, causing chaos in multiple industries.

It resumed transportation after the state government offered additional support to the carrier.

“We have agreed to implement an interim arrangement, using additional resources from (NRE), to support TT-Line to develop and implement procedures in the assessment of the suitability of horse transport vehicles,” Premier Jeremy Rockliff and Deputy Premier Michael Ferguson said at the time.

Speaking after the announcement, Mr Ferguson said one NRE officer had been seconded, but additional resources would be provided if needed.

Now, the Mercury can reveal a total of four NRE officers have been seconded to TT-Line to perform animal welfare checks and advise on the suitability of horse and livestock vehicles for transportation across the Strait.

The four officers “ensure coverage of all sailings,” an NRE spokesperson said.

“This is an interim arrangement to support TT-Line as the company develops and implements procedures for livestock transport.”

Meanwhile, amendments to the Animal Welfare (Land Transport of Livestock) Regulations 2013 will be implemented “before Christmas,” the spokesperson said.

“These regulations will provide clarity on animal welfare responsibilities when moving livestock and set a standard for ventilation for horse transports, building on what’s already in place under federal law.

“There will also be a full review of the (regulations) in early 2023 as part of the usual 10-year review process, which will include an opportunity for full consultation and further amendment, if required.”

Ms Topfer will hand down her sentence on December 21, notwithstanding the appeal.