THE fact that legal action over marauding wild dogs is being considered by some Victorian farmers speaks volumes about their growing discontent.
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Such a move is likely to be costly and drawn out.
It has long been said there are few winners in court litigation — mainly the barristers and instructing solicitors.
Farmers believe the Coalition, when in Opposition, made promises and commitments that haven’t been honoured.
A little less than 12 months ago, Agriculture Minister Peter Walsh said at a meeting in Tallangatta that vacant dogmen positions in the North East would be filled.
That pledge has not been met and the government is going down the path of community-based baiting programs.
That adds fuel to the fire with farmers saying they are expected to do the work the Department of Environment and Primary Industries should be undertaking.
Their case is that the government has “a duty of care” to eradicate feral pests and noxious weeds coming from its bush.
Perhaps buoyed by a precedent judgment 12 years ago, the level of discussion among farmers is growing to such an extent that the government must listen.