Gordon Copeland

Monday, 13th August 2007

Copeland disappointed at 1080 decision

Independent MP Gordon Copeland today expressed his disappointment at the decision of the Environmental Risk Management Authority (ERMA), following a formal review, which permits the aerial application of 1080 poison for possum control to continue.

"As the Authority itself admits, the continued used of this deadly poison has deeply divided New Zealanders. This is particularly the case in relation to aerial application," said Mr Copeland.

"ERMA simply states that from January 1 next year aerial operations will be 'actively monitored' - whatever that might mean. I believe that decision is lax and indeed breaches their own law which calls for a precautionary approach, particularly when they are talking about risks to human health."

"Frankly, when it comes to human health, risks such as this should not be 'managed' but eliminated altogether. From that point of view I think the decision is reckless and I call for a ban on the aerial application of 1080 pending the 'more research into alternative methods' that ERMA itself has called for."

ENDS

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