29 September 2008 Media Statement

American foulbrood strategy to be reviewed

The national pest management strategy for the bee disease American foulbrood is to be reviewed, BIosecurity Minister Jim Anderton announced today.

Jim Anderton said the strategy has been in place for ten years, and was to expire tomorrow (30 September 2008).

"Under section 88 of the Biosecurity Act, the minister has the authority to initiate a review of the strategy, and I have done so because I believe there is still value in managing this disease, and have been advised to do so by my officials, supported by the management agency for the national pest management strategy, the National Beekeepers' Association."

The review means the strategy will remain in force until the review has been completed.

Interested people can make submissions, before 5pm on 28 November 2008. A MAF report on the strategy is available on their website: http//www.biosecurity.govt.nz/strategy-and-consultation/consultation/current

Jim Anderton said that if there was support for continuing the strategy, it was likely to be amended in line with submissions and continued for another term.

The objective of the strategy is to reduce the number of beehives infected with American foulbrood. American foulbrood is a bacterial disease that infects only bees, and is present in most beekeeping countries. It has been present in New Zealand since 1877.

ENDS

© Scoop Media