Positive discussions at King Island forum Fri 21 September 2012 Bryan Green Acting Premier A forum facilitated by the State Government on King Island today focussed on the logistics of moving livestock off the island while preserving the integrity of the brand following the closure of the JBS Australia abattoir. Acting Premier Bryan Green said the discussions were positive and stakeholders would continue to work through issues resulting from the closure of the abattoir. "We understand it is a difficult time for people on King Island and the Government is focused on doing whatever it can to assist," Mr Green said. More than 30 people attended the forum with State Government officials including beef producers, processors, Tasports, shippers, the King Island Council and the Tasmanian Farmers and Grazier Association. Representatives from Meat Standards Australia and Meat and Livestock Australia were also involved. "The movement of stock off the island is a crucial issue and the Government is working collaboratively with all stakeholders. "We need to ensure cattle can be transported without risks to meat quality, animal welfare and other market requirements through a regular and reliable shipping services. Mr Green said work was also well underway on a new partnership agreement between the Government and King Island Council to identify economic development opportunities. "The council has put forward a range of issues that will form the basis of discussions at a series of meetings starting next week. "The closure of the abattoir presents challenges for the island and we will continue working with the community," Mr Green said.