WHEN entering into any form of debate, it's important to take the time to ensure you understand the position and arguments of those with differing views.
Doing so can help identify what, if any, common ground you have and can help reveal any myths or mistruths that may be being spread by others.
With this in mind, I stopped by an Adelaide Against Live Export-organised anti-live ex rally held on the steps of Parliament House in Adelaide last weekend.
I wasn't there to wave a placard or join the passionate chants of 'ban live exports', but rather to stand off to the side and listen to the arguments the anti-live ex brigade is using to push its cause.
As could probably be expected during an election campaign, politicians featured heavily among the speakers.
The Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young (pictured), Labor's Member for Port Adelaide Mark Butler and the Animal Justice Party's lead Senate candidate Louise Pfeiffer all spoke against live exports and encouraged people to vote on the issue on May 18, while SA Best MLC Frank Pangallo also had a turn on the microphone. The headline speaker was Animals Australia's Lyn White, while the RSPCA was also represented.
Research spruiked indicated eight out of 10 South Australians wanted live exports to end, and one speaker discussed the 'psychological impact' felt by Adelaide residents, knowing live ex ships docked in our city.
At one stage, the live export sector was described as existing only so 'a few rich people in the Middle East could get their meat a little bit fresher'.
At least one speaker emphasised that banning live exports would benefit farmers in the long-term, and would create a plethora of jobs in the processing sector. It was eye-opening to hear so many opinions on what farmers should do or think, even though no farmers addressed the crowd to confirm this view, nor do I believe there were many producers in the crowd.
Watching the rally confirmed opposition to live exports from some sections of the community isn't a fad or short-term prospect, such is the determination and passion of those involved.
But if the sentiments expressed by passing motorists - most too colourful to mention here - are anything to go by, the rally organisers still have a way to go to convince all members of the public to join their cause.