“Marts should not be used as dumping grounds for calves that are not yet fit to be sold. At present calves cannot be exported until they reach two weeks of age and the same rule should apply to bringing calves to be sold at marts. I see no difficulty in implementing a mandatory minimum age limit of two weeks before a calf can be presented for sale.”

“When you look at this issue from an animal welfare stance it’s very straightforward. Giving a calf the opportunity to establish itself is not an unreasonable requirement. I would call on all concerned parties including the marts and department of agriculture officials to look at this matter immediately,” he said.