Page 4544 - Week 10 - Thursday, 23 September 2010
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transferred between dogs. Unfortunately, it is often fatal if not treated in the very early stages. It is however a disease that can be prevented by vaccination.
Parvovirus was first detected at DAS on 23 June 2010. During the detections of parvovirus, DAS has implemented quarantine measures that have included restricted public and volunteer accesses to the facility, daily disinfection of the dog holding pens, and the provision of disinfection foot baths at the entry to the facility and throughout the dog holding areas. DAS also accepted an offer by the RSPCA to test and vaccinate dogs for parvovirus. Eleven dogs were infected by parvovirus during the recent outbreaks, and unfortunately had to be euthanased. DAS has been clear of further parvovirus detections since 6 September 2010.
In respect to your question about maintenance and staff upgrades, senior officers from the Department of Territory and Municipal Services (TAMS) are working in close cooperation with the Chief Executive Officer of RSPCA-ACT, Mr Michael Linke, on a project to relocate the RSPCA from their existing Weston facility. A model that will involve co-location of the RSPCA with DAS in a new purpose-built facility is being explored. The Government will examine the joint proposal from TAMS and the RSPCA with a view to funding the new facility. Minor maintenance issues at the existing DAS facility are being addressed.
DAS recently completed a recruitment process for three vacant ranger positions. I am pleased to advise that the facility is now fully staffed including the appointment of
a part-time DAS volunteer coordinator, who will commence in the second half of September 2010.
MR STANHOPE (in reply to a supplementary question by Ms Hunter):
I have received advice from the Department of Territory and Municipal Services that the Code of Practice for the Handling of Companion Animals in Pounds and Shelters has not been reviewed since its adoption in 1995.
I am advised that the Animal Welfare Advisory Committee plans to review the Code of Practice for the Handling of Companion Animals in Pounds and Shelters during their next term of appointment.
Alexander Maconochie Centre—drugs—Tuesday, 21 September 2010
MR STANHOPE (in reply to a supplementary question by Mr Hanson):
ACT Corrective Services (ACTCS) staff drug test all prisoners, by way of urinalysis, on admission to the Alexander Maconochie Centre (AMC). This testing is conducted only to ascertain an idea of the substances used by prisoners prior to incarceration, and no disciplinary action is taken as a consequence of positive results.
ACTCS staff also conduct targeted urinalysis testing, based on intelligence information, and additionally, conduct random drug testing.
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