Independent chairman of the Plan Governance Group Chris Kelly said it was important for the health of cattle and deer and NZ’s international trade reputation that low TB rates are maintained.
“Equally important are the biodiversity gains delivered by pest management work funded through the national TB plan.”
Kelly said this year there would be a focus on how to continue to deliver this work.
“To ensure we get it right I urge dairy, beef and deer farmers and other interested parties to get involved in the review consultation process. We want to hear people’s views on what the future plan should include.”
During June and July, review workshops will be held at 30 locations throughout NZ where proposals could be discussed and feedback noted for later analysis.
The consultation process will kick-off towards the end of June with the release of a public discussion document. Some limited farmer surveys will also be undertaken. Submissions close on July 31, 2015.
The discussion document will be seeking feedback on whether the programme to eradicate TB should be faster or slower or kept the same. Views will also be sought on containing the disease at current or lower levels.
“Because the programme is a significant cost to farmers we want them to understand the issues. Bovine TB has the potential to drastically impact NZ cattle farming and international trade.
“We need to ensure we remain committed and deal with the issue in the smartest way with the ultimate goal being eradication,” Kelly said.
