The pig manure scandal in the Klagenfurt-Land district is a problem across Austria. In the current case, Agriculture Minister Elisabeth Köstinger (ÖVP) refers to the Ministry of Health’s responsibility for animal welfare, but emphasizes in the “Krone” interview: “Animal cruelty must be punished.” AMA spokeswoman Manuela Schürr draws the consequences.
In general, the operating system works well. There was also an immediate ban on the part of the AMA label. “There are 20,000 pig farms in Austria and a case is rare. After all, the animals are the farmer’s capital.”
human catastrophe
In this case, the politician from the Klagenfurt-Land district, who is from Granitztal, also wants to mention the tragedy behind it. “The old farmer’s wife is very seriously ill with cancer, the 84-year-old farmer can no longer manage alone. In the case of such a human catastrophe, you should not go any further.”
Farmers should accept help
In order to prevent such dramatic incidents, the Agricultural Chamber (LK) has been providing psychological help to farmers for years. For example, in generational conflicts, debts, burnout and other tensions. “But a common reason is the conflict between old and young farmers. The older generation is often stubborn and unwilling to accept change. Not only the family suffers, but also the farm and the animals!”, says LK spokesman Wielfried Pesentheiner. “This help should not only be accepted if there is already a fire!”
Scandal operation is freed from price
AMA spokeswoman Manuela Schürr speaks in the “Krone” interview about regular checks and the consequences of the case in Carinthia
„krone“: Following a protest by the association against animal factories, a manure farm was exposed where pigs had to undergo indescribable torture before their meat with your seal ended up on the shelves. Has your company ever audited the farm?
AMA spokeswoman Manuela Schürr: When we last checked two years ago, it was running fine; not a model company, but ok. The next check would be ready in a few weeks. The animal rights activists were faster. That’s lucky. Thank you for that!
Sadly, this abusive farm is reportedly just one of many businesses that do not keep animals as required by law.
Of the 40,000 companies inspected last year, we had to close only 15 immediately. This last case from Carinthia is an absolute exception. We understand the dismay of consumers who rely on our labeling!
Are there any details about this recent incident? Why did the 84-year-old farmer let his animal burdens suffer?
Unfortunately, there are also personal tragedies in the agricultural sector. Here too, it is important that you pick up the phone immediately and contact the authorities if you notice that something is wrong.
What conclusions does the AMA draw from the present case?
We withdrew the seal of approval directly from the company. And it will likely remain so for the foreseeable future.
Source: Krone
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