Response to AWGA's 'mulesing solution'

27 Feb '07

2 min read

In response to the press release distributed by the Australian Wool Growers Association (AWGA) Mulesing solution in front of their eyes (26 February 2007); AWI Chairman, Ian McLachlan made the following statement:

"AWGA Chairman Martin Oppenheimer talks about a pain relief product in a way that implies it is registered and available across the counter. The truth is that the product we are assuming Mr Oppenheimer has referred to, Tri-Solfen, is not registered.

"The product remains under a Minor Use Permit (PER8660) by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA). Under this permit, it can only be used by woolgrowers and mulesing contractors under the direction of a veterinary surgeon or by the vets themselves.

"The permit explains very clearly that the product is not registered and can only be used subject to the conditions and restrictions expressed in the Minor Use Permit.

"AWI supports the use of pain relief, but woolgrowers should not be compelled to use a product that isn't registered.

"As well, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has publicly walked from a deal made with AWGA on this pain relief product, as they say the product is not good enough.

"A PETA spokesperson was quoted on ABC Radio's New South Wales Country Hour program in August 2006, as saying 'they will continue to urge retailers to boycott Australian wool in the meantime, because the Tri-Solfen spray just isn't effective enough'.

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