Live export of sheep and cattle previously stranded off WA approved [Video]

Four cattle and 64 sheep died before they could all be unloaded at Fremantle Port in the middle of last month, leaving the rest of the consignment’s future up in the air.

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry previously blocked a bid by Israel-based company Bassem Dabbah to send the 2000-odd cattle and 14,000 sheep the long way around via the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa, saying it couldn’t be satisfied the arrangements would ensure the animals’ health and welfare.

Last night the department said it had approved a notice of intention to re-export the animals to Israel, sparking criticism from the RSPCA

“All consignments of livestock exported from Australia are subject to inspection by departmental veterinarians to ensure they are fit for export and meet all importing country requirements.”

The short statement didn’t …