21 May 2009
DAFF09/255B

Calls for a national meat labelling system were high on the agenda for discussions at the Primary Industries Ministerial Council in Hobart today.

State, territory and federal primary industries ministers discussed a range of issues affecting the agriculture, fisheries and forestry sectors, including an update on the H1N1 influenza and drought reforms.

They discussed calls for a standardised retail meat labelling system to help consumers, processors and retailers.

The matter was referred to a working group which is already looking at standardising descriptions of lamb for domestic meat processors and feedback is expected later in the year.

Council also agreed to establish a working group to examine whether additional measures are needed to manage the safety of imported and domestically produced pet food.

Federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Tony Burke said he and his colleagues would continue to work constructively together to benefit primary producers.

“It is important that we continue to discuss primary industries issues at a national level and look at areas where standards may not be consistent,” Mr Burke said.

“For example, if we do make changes in the area of meat labelling, then we need to make sure those changes are consistent nationally.

“It is important that we work through the issue from a consumer point of view, but also that we don’t tie farmers up in red tape.”