THE Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment has made the decision to not grant Rural Export and Trading (WA) Pty Ltd an exemption to export livestock after 1 June.

The livestock vessel Al Kuwait was unable to depart prior to 1 June as planned, following confirmed cases of COVID-19 among crew members.

The exporter submitted an application to the department for exemption from the 1 June export deadline under the Australian Meat and Live‑stock Industry (Prohibition of Export of Sheep by Sea to Middle East—Northern Summer) Order 2020, including an Animal Welfare Management Plan.

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Following consideration of all relevant matters under the legislation, including animal welfare and trade implications, the department has taken the decision not to grant an exemption to the exporter.

The livestock that was to be exported in this consignment remain at registered premises and the department is satisfied there are no welfare concerns.

The department said a detailed statement of reasons for its decision will be released later this week.