Full Marks for Inspections?
We understand the need for inspections. From the control fo disease, transportation, import and export, health and standards of care and buildings - we must have a system of checks - all of the above are essential for the health of the animals, the benefit to the consumers and the protection of the farmer. If one of these elements is found to be neglected on a farm then it is essential that there is a process by which the problem can be identified and rectified.
However, the Farm Crisis Network (FCN) has compiled a report which looks at inspections. The full PDF report can be read here. The report highlights the negative experience of many farmers :
You are treated like a criminal and have to prove you are not
Approach to bureacracy is too pedantic. No room for humanity
Some of the official language is confusing. Many difficulties are caused by different interpretations of regulations by different inspectors
These quotes demonstrate the the experience of being inspected is far from a positive experience. If we can bring a Christian perspective to the issue of inspections (and this would apply not only to agriculture inspectors, but all services which face this process), then perhaps we should encourage a focus on the essential nature of an inspection. Once we have acknowledged this then we are able to work towards the inspection process becoming a positive and affirming experience. We should encourage inspectors to look for positives and where there are problems, to offer constructive guidance to assist improvement. Simple condemnation serves no purpose.
The FCN suggest practical measures that could be implemented to alleviate the stress of the inspection process:
- More flexibility in the inspection regime with less focus on catching offenders
- Recognise that additional labour is sometimes needed
- Negotiation over the time of inspection
- More accurate levels of information about the level of penalties
In supporting these ideas, we can bring about positive change. If you have experienced an inspection, we would like to hear your experiences. If you are an inspector, we would like to hear your story - how do you view your role? And if you have any other ideas for the improvement of the inspection process then do let us know.
Your comments on this issue
Be the first to add your comments!