Phil Twyford
Associate Environment spokesperson

25 March 2014

Funding needed to halt spread of kauri dieback disease

The news that kauri dieback disease has reached the Coromandel makes it even more urgent that the Government properly fund efforts to save the species, says Labour’s Associate Environment spokesperson Phil Twyford.

“The Coromandel has one of only two populations that remained free of the killer disease. This is very bad news.

“After two years of refusing to commit funding to the vital scientific research and disease management work, it is time now for the Government to stump up with the cash.

“The scientists and biosecurity specialists have done great work on slowing the spread of the disease, but unless the Government commits the $8 million they need to carry on, then their work will grind to a halt in June.

“The kauri is one of our most beloved species. Without adequate funding for the efforts to stop the spread of the disease the kauri is an endangered icon.”

ENDS

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