Biosecurity needs better Government leadership

The reality that over 400 unwanted pests and organisms enter New Zealand every year is a major concern for New Zealand’s economy, says Damien O’Connor Labour Biosecurity spokesperson.

“When National first came into office it cut frontline staffing in its first Budget and therefore reduced our ability to keep out these pests and exposed this country to a far greater risk of a major incursion,” Damien O’Connor said.

“Our primary production sector is far too precious to have so many incursions of pests happening.

“An outbreak of foot and mouth disease has the potential to block all our agricultural exports with disastrous consequences for our economy. Yesterday John Key said he wanted to double our exports to China. But that can’t happen if New Zealand agricultural and horticultural products become contaminated with unwanted organisms.

“The new fastgate system at NZ airports, while saving a few minutes for some passengers, will add considerable risk of unwanted pests such as fruit fly for the NZ horticulture and primary sectors.

“The increase in imported goods such as cars coming into this country will place further pressure on biosecurity operations if they are not adequately resourced.

“It is about time National committed to real increases in biosecurity funding, not just reorganisation of a system that is now failing in its efforts to keep out unwanted diseases and pests,” said Damien O’Connor.

ENDS

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