Dear Editor,

I have long been a supporter of having an animal management plan, and a community animal education strategy for Tennant Creek, along with providing for the sustainability of Barkly Veterinary Services.

In the past 14 months there has been little to nil de-sexing of dogs in Tennant Creek, while the majority of communities in the Barkly have undertaken de-sexing programs funded by the local authorities.

The Barkly Regional Council’s Tennant Creek Local Authority approved $20,000 for animal management on May. So there are funds available to undertake a de-sexing blitz in Tennant Creek.

I estimate there are approximately 1000 dogs in Tennant Creek that potentially could be de-sexed if we apply the same guidelines as used in the communities in the Barkly.

As a Barkly Regional Council councillor, and a resident of Tennant Creek, I am aware of a complete breakdown in personal and professional relationships between all stakeholders in respect to animal welfare issues and the provision of vet services to our region.

It’s not just dog owners, horse owners, wildlife cares, pastoralists, and others, also rely on a cost effective vet service based in the Barkly.

It is time for all parties to put our differences aside and work in the best interests of the Tennant Creek community and the Barkly. I am prepared to do so.

Its is about trying to develop a professional relationship with the Barkly Veterinary Services in best interest of all sectors of the community in Barkly. It should not be about petty personal politics.

We have a moral, ethical, humane, and legal obligation to act.

Barkly Regional Council councillor Elliot McAdam,

Tennant Creek.

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