EI Levy - Irrational, unfair, ignorant, shortsighted and mean.

Thanks, Kerry Morgan for writing such a good letter in protest at this levy. I have also written to the minister and shadow minister, plus signed the petition and forwarded it on to as many people as possible. Whether they read these things is another matter. As a breeder of miniature horses, it seems ridiculous that breeders are going to shoulder the largest part of the burden for EI costs. Those with unregistered horses and equine related services escape without any costs at all. As you say, Kerry, we have already suffered a big downturn because of EI, not to mention high feed costs because of droughts. We would register about 10 foals every year, but I know of many others who would register 20 or 30 - so that's an increase in costs of $1000.00 to $3000.00 per year. I would hate to give it up as it's something I love, but I can hardly see myself being able to continue with these costs and I have a full time job as well !! So where does that leave the recreational horse industry, and all the other industries that have our business, plus what happens to all the horses that people can no longer afford to keep as there is no market??? I really hope that this doesn't come about as I really fear the consequences for horses as well as people. Obviously AQIS seems to be indemnified for everything ....., so why couldn't they put a small levy on betting, considering EI was brought here by a shuttle stallion for the racing industry. Billions of bets are made so surely that wouldn't take long to recover the money that way.

Diane Cotton

Mirrindel Miniature Horses