David Cunliffe
Media Statement

MP for Titirangi
Committees on Finance and Expenditure,
Commerce, and Regulations Review

9 November 2001

No Blanket Spraying

“There is no plan to aerial spray wide areas of West Auckland.” Said Titirangi MP David Cunliffe, referring to today’s Herald article on Painted Apple moth spraying. “Any such suggestion is sensationalist and unhelpful to local residents.” He said.

“The Government received four options from MAF. It rejected blanket aerial spraying of large areas of West Auckland.”

“Instead it agreed to the recommended option of targeted spraying of the Whau river, Waikumete cemetery and Traherne Island.” Mr Cunliffe said.

“There is nothing ‘secret’ about Cabinet’s decision. The Cabinet paper on the decision has already been released on request” David Cunliffe said.

“Nor are other options ‘contingency plans’. MAF must report back to Cabinet by 31 May 2003 if the spraying has not been successful.”

“No decision would then be made without extensive further public consultation” David Cunliffe said.

“My efforts are focused on ensuring the safety of local residents, which is my first priority as a local Member of Parliament” David Cunliffe said.

“I am also working hard to ensure that the views of the local Community and our Advisory Group are acted upon by MAF “ David Cunliffe said.

ENDS

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