Congressman Dave Obey says BSE precautions are not enough
Monday, February 6, 2006, 1:45 PM
by Bob Meyer
The senior member of Wisconsin's congressional delegation doesn't think the USDA is doing enough to protect our country from BSE. Democrat Dave Obey says the Ag Department "Runs the risk of losing public confidence in its animal testing program." Obey cites last week's report form the USDA Inspector General that held a list of recommendations that the Ag Department will follow in an effort to beef-up protection. Obey doesn't think the changes are enough saying, "The Inspector General's report shows that our concerns about the willingness of the Agriculture Department to protect the integrity of the animal testing system is unfortunately justified." The Congressman has long advocated more rigorous animal testing, including opening testing to qualified private laboratories that have the necessary expertise. Obey also reiterated his opposition to turning a national animal ID database over to the private sector for management, "The very people who may have a financial interest in covering up diseased animals."
Monday, February 6, 2006, 1:45 PM
by Bob Meyer
The senior member of Wisconsin's congressional delegation doesn't think the USDA is doing enough to protect our country from BSE. Democrat Dave Obey says the Ag Department "Runs the risk of losing public confidence in its animal testing program." Obey cites last week's report form the USDA Inspector General that held a list of recommendations that the Ag Department will follow in an effort to beef-up protection. Obey doesn't think the changes are enough saying, "The Inspector General's report shows that our concerns about the willingness of the Agriculture Department to protect the integrity of the animal testing system is unfortunately justified." The Congressman has long advocated more rigorous animal testing, including opening testing to qualified private laboratories that have the necessary expertise. Obey also reiterated his opposition to turning a national animal ID database over to the private sector for management, "The very people who may have a financial interest in covering up diseased animals."
