http://allafrica.com/stories/201109020201.html
1 September 2011
The ostrich industry has been faced with an export ban on ostrich
meat due to Avian Influenza since April this year, with losses amounting
to R108 million per month. Forced slaughtering is required by
international law on farms testing positive for the virus. To date, more
than 33 000 birds have been culled in the greater Oudtshoorn area.
National Government compensated farmers for culled birds to the tune
of R33 million, but on Friday (26/08) it came to light that no more
money will be forthcoming from the National Department of Agriculture,
Fisheries and Forestry. Many farmers have already culled on the
assumption that they will be compensated, and farmers who were in line
to cull resisted when they learned that there was a R17 million
shortfall in compensation funds.
The Western Cape Government Economic and Infrastructure Strategic
Committee and Budget Policy Committee, chaired by Minister Alan Winde,
held emergency meetings this week and recommended that the R17 million
be allocated from a provincial contingency fund. This recommendation was
yesterday (31/08) approved by Cabinet.
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