ORC chairman rejects Cr Laws’ claims over rabbit virus

CR Michael Laws suggested in a media statement last week that the delay behind the K5 virus importation is a ‘‘botchup’’ and that the approval process is ‘‘relatively simple’’. This is far from the truth.

The statutory approvals process is in fact very complex. There has been a great deal of technical and science work undertaken to support the application.

While we wish to be able to release the virus this autumn as much as the community does, the statutory approval process had to take place and we have been transparent about this fact in our communications. Australia, while similar to New Zealand, is a different landscape with its own unique ecology. They have undertaken an exhaustive review process to be comfortable with the virus’ release. It is equally important that a robust review process is followed in a New Zealand context in order for the risks to be fully and appropriately assessed.

Contrary to Cr Laws’ statement that the ‘‘brakes have been slammed on’’, I can assure the community the process is well under way and the New Zealand Rabbit Coordination Group, of which the ORC is a member, will continue to explore new and improved ways of rabbit control.

It is important the release is both managed and deliberate and the farming community is aware of the need to have a nationally coordinated release of a pure virus to maximise the effectiveness of this biocontrol tool.

The ORC has always maintained the virus will not be a silver bullet — rather it is a tool in the rabbit control toolbox. It is hoped it will boost virusrelated rabbit mortality. However, land occupiers still need to undertake their primary control.

Stephen Woodhead Chairman, Otago Regional Council

Policing

IN a news item on TV1 (25.3.17), there was a report that police could possibly become involved in investigating money going out of the country and purchases in excess of $10,000 being made in cash.

That is fine, but I hope the public realise that the extra police required for this task will be taken off the front line and the promised extra 900odd will fill those positions. So, we will be no better off, apart from some police who will be scrabbling for promotion. Wait and watch. Mal Parker Andersons Bay

BIBLE READING: Hosanna to the Son of David. — Matthew 21.9.