The SPCA is angry that the Government has reversed its ban on kosher killing of poultry.
Agriculture Minister David Carter confirmed to NZPA yesterday that the kosher technique of shechita slaughter of chickens would be allowed to continue but arguments with the Jewish community would continue over beef and sheep as those could be imported from Australia.
In May Mr Carter ruled citing animal welfare that all commercially killed animals must be stunned before slaughter, which effectively outlawed kosher killing which is called shechita.
The Jewish community took the issue to court and the case was due to be heard today but, after months of negotiations with Crown law an agreement was reached on Friday to allow chickens to be killed.
Shechita slaughter requires arteries and jugular veins to be cut using a sharp blade to allow the blood to drain out. The animal cannot be stunned or unconscious. Sheep, goats and poultry are likely to feel pain for between five and 22 seconds before blood loss causes unconsciousness, and welfare experts say cattle could suffer for a minute or more.
SPCA chief executive Robyn Kippenberger said the agreement to allow chickens to be killed in a cruel way was wrong.
"(It) means at least 5000 chickens - perhaps more - suffer during slaughter every year in the name of religious practice. Instead of being rendered instantaneously unconscious animals bleed to death, feel pain and struggle for some minutes.
"The minister has acknowledged their deaths will be cruel and the SPCA is distressed by his turn on this issue.
"Because the practice is now legal, no action can be taken against the people who practice this ancient ritual slaughter. The SPCA, however, will continue to lobby hard to reinstate the most humane conditions."
He said people should write to Mr Carter telling him what they thought.
Mr Carter has also faced allegations he considered trade implications when he banned shechita -- such factors are not allowed to be considered in animal welfare decisions.
That was "rubbish", he told NZPA yesterday, as was any inference he was trying to advantage his own business interests.
Mr Carter confirmed he had a March meeting with Silver Fern Farms in which he is a shareholder.
"When I met with Silver Fern farms or met with any of the meat industry they've pointed out there are trade implications if we make an exception for the Jewish community but whilst I was aware of those trade implications at all times I only made my decision based on welfare."
The meeting with Silver Fern lasted about half an hour and the issue was fleetingly raised.
"It was mentioned but only in passing."
Mr Carter said he had two properties, and had shares in a number of cooperatives including fertiliser, meat and farm merchandise.
NZPA