Briefing on lifting of ban on export of red meat: 19 Feb

18 February 2014

The Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries will make a formal announcement on the World Organisation for Animal Health's (OiE) decision to lift the ban on the export of meat imports for South Africa at a press conference in Cape Town, tomorrow. For three years, there was a ban on South African red meat because of foot and mouth disease. A National Agricultural Marketing Council report indicated that R4 billion  worth of revenue to have been lost, it is estimated that though this will not be up immediately, but the steady increase to achieve this in the next 12 months will be seen.

The Minister will inform journalists on how the Department will maintain the status, focusing on three main components, namely; the provision of primary animal health care for rural areas, compulsory community service for new veterinary graduates and the Department of Home Affairs' strengthening of border controls.

Media is requested to RSVP to Palesa Mokomele on PalesaM@daff.gov.za or call 082 904 1908. Media is required to bring proof of identification.
 
NB: There will be a video-link to GCIS media briefing room, Tshedimosetso House, 1035 Francis Baard, Corner Festival Street, Hatfield, Pretoria
Details of the press conference are as follows:

Date: Wednesday, 19 February 2014
Venue: Imbizo Media Centre, 120 Plein Street, Cape Town
Time: 12:00