Further statement on the North Otago incident
Further statement on the North Otago incident
Following the further media coverage of an incident at the North Otago A&P Show, the Royal Agricultural Society of New Zealand (RAS) reiterates our earlier comments that any abuse—whether it be towards an animal or another person—is totally unacceptable, says Vice President Nic Barkley.
“The incident in question was egregious and goes against the values of the RAS, and our approach to showcasing rural excellence,” says Nic.
“Animals deserve to be treated with the utmost respect, and their welfare are the forefront of how they are cared for by their owners and riders.”
Since the incident, the National Executive has developed a new Resolution Process—coming into being ahead of the next showing season— which provides greater ability for show officials to take action immediately.
“While serious incidents such as this should also be investigated by the authorities under the appropriate legislation (the Animal Welfare Act), shows also need to be empowered and have the tools to immediately act and remove a person from the showgrounds immediately, if required,” says Nic.
The new Resolution Process now provides for a Red Card to be issued, effectively expelling a person—whether they be a competitor, exhibitor, spectator or official—for the show completely.
RAS’ Head Office is also informed of the outcome, and will keep a register of actions taken which may be referred to should future instances also result in a sanction.
The RAS has also been made aware that the current owner of the horse has been the subject of hateful messages and bullying. This behaviour is also unacceptable, and goes against the RAS’ values. We urge any person who has made, or intends to make, such remarks to think of the further harm their actions could have.
We understand and agree with the views held by the majority regarding the welfare of this animal at the time of the incident, but taking it out on a person who was not directly involved in the incident is not appropriate.