Senate debates

Wednesday, 14 June 2017

Documents

Live Animal Exports; Order for the Production of Documents

4:02 pm

Photo of Lee RhiannonLee Rhiannon (NSW, Australian Greens) Share this | | Hansard source

Before I move motion 341, I ask that the name of Senator Hinch be added to this motion.

Photo of Lee RhiannonLee Rhiannon (NSW, Australian Greens) Share this | | Hansard source

I, and also on behalf of Senator Hinch, move:

That there be laid on the table, by the Minister representing the Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources, by close of business on 20 June 2017, a copy of the draft or any other version of the Export Control (Animals) Amendment (Equine Animals) Order 2017 (the Equine Amendment Order) and all documents by or held by the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources and/or the Minister's office, including risk assessments, advice, emails, minutes or other information relating to the live export of equines including, but not limited to, consideration of the trade's cruelty to animals and any reputational risk to all those involved.

Photo of James McGrathJames McGrath (Queensland, Liberal National Party, Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister) Share this | | Hansard source

I seek leave to make a short statement.

Photo of Stephen ParryStephen Parry (President) Share this | | Hansard source

Leave is granted for one minute.

Photo of James McGrathJames McGrath (Queensland, Liberal National Party, Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister) Share this | | Hansard source

The government opposes the motion. It would cause an unreasonable diversion of resources. The department consulted with industry on the draft amendment order; therefore, copies of the order are publicly available.

Photo of Stephen ParryStephen Parry (President) Share this | | Hansard source

The question is that the motion moved by Senator Rhiannon be agreed to.