Fly screens recalled due to biosecurity risk

Fly screens recalled due to biosecurity risk

The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is seeking public support for a recall of magnetic fly screens imported from China and recently sold through Bunnings stores.

The fly screens “Syneco Magnetic Insect Screen” are weighted at the bottom with a plastic sleeve containing an untreated sand and soil mix.

MPI Acting Manager - Response - Plants and Environment, Edwin Massey says while the risk is small, the sand and soil could potentially contain pests and diseases that present a risk to our agricultural industries or the environment, should the mixture leak from the screen and spread into the wider environment.

“While the risk of exposure to the New Zealand environment is low, MPI considers it precautionary to work with Bunnings to recall the screens so they can be safely destroyed and the risk minimised,” Dr Massey says.

The fly screens entered New Zealand with paperwork that made no declaration of the presence of sand, soil or other risk goods.

“Biosecurity inspectors did not detect the issue with the flyscreens because of the inorganic nature of the product and the details of the accompanying paperwork.”

Four-hundred and eighty-nine of the magnetic insect screens were sold through Bunnings stores nationally, between October 2012 and January 2013. Bunnings has removed all remaining unsold stock and is making personal contact with those purchasers it holds on record.

“Anyone who has purchased the Syneco magnetic screens can return these products to any Bunnings store nationwide, with or without a receipt, for a full refund,” Dr Massey says.

ENDS

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