Emma Kealy – Letter to the Editor
Tuesday 6 August 2024
Dear Editor,
Of all the issues affecting producers, the control of wild dogs is rapidly reaching the red-alert stage.
As concerns mount, it is imperative produces unite and ensure their voices are heard by the Allan Labor Government.
The Nationals are in the fight for the long haul after the government alarmingly revoked an unprotection order on wild dogs in the north-west of the state in March this year with only a few hours’ notice – and without consultation.
The government has also declared it expects land managers to assume anything previously considered to be a wild dog is now a protected dingo. Producers, simply, have no means of protecting their stock.
Sadly, as a result, we have witnessed extensive wild dog attacks on stock.
This is now a massive looming concern across the state and should be a massive wake-up call for Labor, which continues to show a lack of intent to consult with producers despite last year promising to have open dialogue.
Labor is sending a survey on wild dogs protection to select producers, and the framing of questions is designed to ensure answers don’t provide the brutal truth.
Producers, in reality, have been stonewalled amid stealth tactics designed to achieve a desired result.
Farmers voices must the be heard, and The Nationals will ensure they are.
Labor can’t manage agriculture and Victorians are paying the price.
Deputy Leader of The Nationals
Emma Kealy