Hairy mutant calves

Federated Farmers Dairy wants to clarify its position on semen supplied by LIC bull, Matrix, to farmers, leading to a number of calves being born deformed. Many of these calves are excessively hairy, heat intolerant and the grown heifers do not milk properly.

The Federation is looking at all options to bring a resolution to this problem. The Federation has been in contact with the directors and chief executive of LIC, as well as the chairperson of the LIC Shareholders’ Council. The good of the co-operative is at stake, and while legal action is a possibility, it is a long way down the list of actions yet to be taken.