Greens push for an end to the use of sow stalls in WA

An end to the use of sow stalls in Western Australia is potentially in sight with a motion in Parliament by Hon. Lynn MacLaren MLC, the WA Greens spokesperson for animals. The motion, which will be debated in Parliament Tuesday evening April 5, would amend proposed Government regulations to prohibit the tight confinement of pregnant pigs in gestation stalls in WA by 2017.

Lynn MacLaren says “Sow stalls are inhumane and have no place in modern farming systems. The Australian pig industry has already voted to voluntarily phase out sow stalls by 2017. However, it’s important that these commitments are backed up by legislation to curb any future rogue operators.”

Sow stalls confine a pregnant mother pig (a breeding sow) for the majority of her life in a tiny metal crate required only to be 1cm longer and wider than her body. Pregnant females confined in sow stalls are denied the ability to turn around, to exercise, or to express most natural behaviours. Group housing systems are used elsewhere with good welfare outcomes.

Lynn MacLaren says “It is clear that most West Australians strongly disapprove of confining pigs in sow stalls. Yet, the WA Government is set to introduce new regulations which would allow unlimited use of sow stalls until 2017 and for 6 weeks each pregnancy from 2017 on.”

“Whilst the pork industry’s responsible leaders are embracing change and are trying to do the right thing, it appears that there are a few stick in the muds in this business who seem to have the Agriculture Minister Terry Redman’s ear,” concluded Ms MacLaren.

Ms MacLaren’s motion has earned the support of the State ALP who can see the good sense in it.

Animals Australia have launched a National Campaign to try to convince Terry Redman to support the ban. Already over 700 people have emailed the Minister calling for a ban.

Sow stalls have been banned or are being phased out in the UK, Sweden, Finland, Netherlands and in seven states of the USA. Their use will be severely restricted in the EU from 2013.

Last year Tasmania became the first Australian State to announce a ban on sow stalls by 2017. The decision was followed by Coles' announcement that it would make all its home brand pork products 'sow stall free' by 2014 and the Australian pig industry's vote for a voluntary phase out of sow stalls by 2017. The ACT is also currently considering a ban.