Investigation into Sheep Cruelty Claims by Merino Company
An investigation is underway into disturbing allegations of animal cruelty on New Zealand farms, spearheaded by the New Zealand Merino Company. The company has pledged to delve into claims made by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) regarding the mistreatment of sheep. The potential repercussions loom large as farms could face expulsion from the ethical wool accreditation programme if found guilty of such atrocities.
PETA Exposé: Unveiling Sheep Shearing Cruelty
PETA recently unveiled an exposé showcasing harrowing video footage from 11 farms and shearing sheds, including the infamous Hunter Valley Station in Central Otago, previously owned by American TV personality Matt Lauer. The footage depicted workers engaged in appalling acts such as standing on a sheep’s neck, dragging sheep across the floor, and sewing up wounds without anesthetics. These actions have sparked outrage and calls for action from animal rights advocates and ethical consumers alike.
Ethical Wool Brand Under Scrutiny
The farms targeted in PETA’s investigation were suppliers of ZQ-certified wool, a label synonymous with ethical wool production. However, PETA’s senior vice president, Jason Baker, has condemned the ZQ certification as a mere facade, urging renowned brands like Allbirds and Icebreaker to shift towards cruelty-free alternatives. Despite this, the New Zealand Merino Company clarified that Hunter Valley Station was not associated with the ZQ accreditation programme, raising questions about the authenticity of the claims.
Commitment to Animal Welfare
Amidst the controversy, NZM’s chief executive, Angus Street, expressed deep concern over the footage, emphasizing the company’s staunch commitment to animal welfare standards. NZM has vowed to thoroughly investigate the allegations in collaboration with regulatory bodies and third-party auditors. Any farm found in violation of these standards faces expulsion from the programme, underscoring the severity of the situation.
Industry Response and Ongoing Investigations
The Ministry for Primary Industries has been roped into the investigation following PETA’s evidence submission, heightening the stakes for the farms under scrutiny. While Lauer’s legal team has distanced him from the day-to-day operations at Hunter Valley Station, both his company and the farm’s operators have launched internal investigations to address the allegations. Federated Farmers have condemned PETA’s exposé as an unfair portrayal of the industry, asserting that such incidents are isolated and not reflective of widespread practices.
As this saga unfolds, the fate of these farms hangs in the balance, with the broader wool industry under scrutiny for its animal welfare practices. Stay informed with Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, our daily newsletter delivering essential news straight to your inbox.