THE Federal Government rejected a counter offer in the long-running class action over the unlawful closure of the live cattle export trade in 2011.
In the the three years since the 2011 ban was found to be unlawful, no one has received a pay out except for the leaders of the class action the Brett family.
A settlement figure has been a long running issue in the class action, with the lawyer leading the class action, which was widely discussed at last year’s Northern Territory Cattlemen’s Association conference. The Labor Government made an offer of $215m, which was rejected by the class who made a counter offer of $510m plus costs and interest.
The group of 215 parties to the class action include cattle producers, exporters and independent service providers, such as veterinarians and musterers, who were devastated by the Government’s decision to shut down the trade.
National Farmers’ Federation acting chief executive officer Charlie Thomas said the Government had ignored an opportunity to address years of financial and emotional pain, and allow claimants to put the saga behind them once and for all.
“This is a petty and callous move by a Government which seems determined to deny justice to these families at all costs,” he said.
“They had the chance to do the right thing and end years of pain. Instead, they’ve chosen to allow this matter to fester and be dragged back through the courts
“The Government’s political decision to end live export virtually overnight, showed disregard for its own departmental advice, and caused widespread financial damage, family break ups, and even suicide among those impacted.
“Far from acting as a model litigant, they’re now pulling out every delay tactic they can find to avoid making good on their wrongdoing.
“It seems likely at this point that the Government’s tactics will force this matter back into the courts to secure an outcome.
“While this is no doubt a disappointing day for those impacted, we’ll continue to stand alongside them until this matter is resolved.”
Source: NFF