7 August

AsureQuality was not informed of the contamination of Fonterra’s whey protein concentrate on Thursday 1 August, as stated this afternoon by the Ministry for Primary Industries.

“I have now confirmed with AsureQuality and Fonterra that AsureQuality was informed after MPI was informed of the issue on Friday 2 August. I am concerned that the statement I made this afternoon, saying AsureQuality were informed on Thursday, was incorrect and I wish to correct it,” MPI acting director general Scott Gallacher said.

“The error was because I misinterpreted information provided to me about what should have occurred, as opposed to what did occur. Under Fonterra’s Risk Management Plan, it is required to inform AsureQuality and MPI within 24 hours of test results showing a potential food safety issue.

“I am advised that this didn’t occur in this case. Fonterra notified us on Friday 2 August before any contact with AsureQuality,” Mr Gallacher said.

“My misunderstanding resulted in the wrong information being provided to the Minister for Food Safety and subsequently to the Prime Minister. I apologise for the confusion this may have caused.”

ENDS

© Scoop Media

New Court Orders, Screening, Guardianship Changes...: Government Ignoring Poverty, Again

It remains to be seen if announcements today will better protect children, but the National Government is forgoing an opportunity to really help kids by ignoring the elephant in the room, which is poverty, Green Party Co-leader Metiria Turei says.

"All the experts have told the Government that very low income is associated with higher rates of child maltreatment and neglect -- something which was totally ignored in the Government's Children's Action Plan and the announcements today," Mrs Turei said. More>>