David Carter Opposition Biosecurity Spokesperson

The news that four new sites, outside the Infected Zone, have become contaminated by the varroa bee mite suggests eradication will not be possible, said Opposition Biosecurity Spokesperson David Carter.

"With infected places now totalling 266, experts are saying contamination is probably due to natural spread. In light of this the Biosecurity Minister should acknowledge that eradication is not an option.

"She should now present the facts openly and promptly and admit that the best we can do is initiate a programme to attempt to contain the damage.

"This is a multi-million dollar industry and it is time Marion Hobbs realised beekeepers need to know immediately whether they are going to have to live with it," said David Carter.

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