How many live export ships have travelled through the Red Sea or to any ports in Israel without an independent observer since the pause? You could take that on notice if you don’t have it on hand.
Senator FARUQI: Late last year, the deployment of observers on livestock voyages travelling to or through the Red Sea or to any ports in Israel was paused due to security conditions. Is that pause still in place?
Mr McDonald : It is, Senator, yes.
Senator FARUQI: How many live export ships have travelled through the Red Sea or to any ports in Israel without an independent observer since the pause? You could take that on notice if you don’t have it on hand.
Mr McDonald : I do have it here somewhere, but I will take it on notice.
Senator FARUQI: Just remind me how the department is monitoring the welfare of animals, of sheep, on these ships without any independent observers. Is it through reports from the exporters?
Mr McDonald : Correct. In the absence of an independent observer, we have the ability to request additional daily reporting from the exporters.