New NAIT officers ready for action
A cohort of 27 new NAIT compliance officers were ready to hit the ground and start working with farmers after graduating from their training programme on Friday, according to the Ministry for Primary Industries’ animal welfare and NAIT compliance manager Gray Harrison.
The new officers, part of a stepped-up effort to educate farmers about their NAIT obligations, and enforce compliance with the scheme, would be located throughout the country, helping farmers use NAIT consistently and taking action when non-compliance was detected.
The ministry had issued 97 infringement notices to farmers for noncompliance with NAIT this year, Mr Harrison said, while OSPRI, which managed the NAIT scheme, had issued more than 600 letters to farmers about non-compliance.
The good news was there had been an almost 20 per cent increase in the number of animal movements recorded this year compared to 2017.
“It is essential that all farmers, including lifestylers, register their cattle and deer in NAIT and record all animal movements,” Mr Harrison said.
“A well-functioning NAIT scheme is a vital part of our national biosecurity system, as it helps MPI respond to and manage animal diseases such as Mycoplasma bovis.”
Changes were being made by MPI and OSPRI to improve the scheme, and ensure it was fit for the future.
“It is important that farmers know that OSPRI is there to help if they have any questions or concerns about their NAIT account. They’ve got experienced staff on hand who know how to use the system and want to help,” he added.
“MPI is currently consulting the public on potential changes to the NAIT Act and regulations to improve the scheme.”
OSPRI was also making operational changes to improve the scheme, including making it faster and easier to use.