NZPork signs Government Biosecurity Partnership

NZPork signs Government Biosecurity Partnership

NZPork signed the Deed for the Government Industry Agreement (GIA) for Biosecurity Readiness and Response at the industry's 2014 Conference yesterday.

Along with NZPork, the signing was attended by the Minister for Primary Industries, representatives from the two Deed Signatories (the Ministry for Primary Industries and Kiwifruit Vine Health), and from other primary sector industry groups.

The GIA deed sets the legal framework for NZPork's participation with MPI in regard to readiness activities for its priority biosecurity risks. It also gives the industry an equal voice in decisions in the event of an exotic disease incursion.

"The industry continues to have concerns about how biosecurity is being managed, but the GIA Deed creates an opportunity for us to partner with Government in a very real and practical way on some priority issues. This agreement gives the pork industry a place at the decision table when it comes to preparing for and managing biosecurity risks specific to our industry. This is a positive step toward sorting out a critical area for New Zealand's economy," said NZPork Chairman Ian Carter.

The structure of the GIA is indicative of MPI seeking to achieve the best outcomes for the sector, he says.

"That's a significant change in their approach to working with industry. I think that's a good sign. The rural sector needs good working relationships with government agencies around biosecurity and other issues impacting including environmental sustainability and animal welfare. We really need to work together to find durable solutions for the sector," Mr Carter said.

NZPork is the first animal-based industry to enter into a GIA and the second industry overall – behind Kiwifruit Vine Health.

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