Callinan report finalised

SYDNEY – Ian Callinan, the Commissioner of the Inquiry into the equine influenza (EI) outbreak in Australia, has provided his report to the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Tony Burke.

The Commissioner was appointed by the previous Government in September, 2007 to investigate the outbreak of EI.

He was asked to report on the circumstances contributing to the outbreak of the disease and on the need for any strengthened biosecurity procedures for the quarantine management of imported horses.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Tony Burke said he would consider Justice Callinan’s report and findings in detail before providing a public response.

“I will take the time needed to thoroughly review the report before making any comment or decision on the recommendations.

“It is my intention that the report will be publicly released once it has been considered by the Government.”

The Government will consult with a range of industry sectors on the future handling of imported horses, including the racing, breeding and recreational sectors.
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