In response to recent news reports containing inaccurate information about PETA’s campaign against mulesing and live exports, PETA issued a statement making clear that PETA and Australian Wool Growers Association (AWGA) are still in talks. While no agreement immediately emerged from a meeting in New York a few weeks ago, both groups feel that progress was made and are cautiously optimistic about reaching an agreement that will satisfy both parties sometime in the near future.

PETA President Ingrid E. Newkirk expressed surprise at Australian Wool Innovation’s (AWI) contention that PETA is unwilling to witness Australian sheep farming firsthand, given that she personally visited two such farms, met with other sheep farmers and debated AWI Chair Ian McLachlan on national TV last November.

"PETA talks with AWGA in New York were productive," says Newkirk. "Newkirk takes his cotton hat off to Chick Olsson and AWGA for keeping the dialogue open rather than beating their chests and throwing sheep farmers’ money away on a frivolous fight in the courts. Newkirk is hopeful that PETA will reach a workable agreement with AWGA that would be a real win for everyone."