Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall has today welcomed the announcement that access to NSW saleyards will be restored for vendors and buyers, however, has said he will be watching closely to ensure the changes give everyone a ‘fair go’.
“The announcement that more individuals will be allowed back into saleyards is a good start, however, operators must clarify whether in practice that means all vendors and buyers – no matter how big or small – can return,” Mr Marshall said.
“I have heard concerns from many farmers that previous restrictions led to some individuals being unable to participate in the buying and selling of livestock.
“My hope is these new changes remove barriers to access and restore true competitiveness at our State’s saleyards.
“However, the proof will be in the pudding and that is why today I have sought urgent assurances from industry that the practice of discriminating against smaller-scale producers will cease.
“Under the NSW Government’s COVID-19 restrictions food, livestock and fibre auctions can continue to operate business as usual, so long as basic social distancing requirements are adhered to.
“Therefore, there is no reason why saleyards should be imposing specific restrictions on different classes of buyers and sellers.”
Mr Marshall said with some producers looking to re-stock following bushfires and drought it was critical that saleyards were truly open for business.
“Farmers looking to re-stock after drought and bushfires already have enough challenges to deal with. The last thing they need is additional hurdles getting in the way of them getting back to business,” Mr Marshall said.
