13/4/2000 - Immediate Release
National Beekeepers' Association
Minister of Biosecurity Meeting; NBA requests 'All possible resources should be made available'
The National Beekeepers' Association is urging the Government to ensure all possible resources are made available to the
MAF Biosecurity Authority for the tracing exercise of the Varroa Mite.
NBA members are working alongside the Biosecurity Authority to determine the affected area. More manpower from the
beekeeping industry is available at short notice.
NBA Executive representatives and Federated Farmers Executive Director, Policy, Catherine Petrey, met the Minister of
Biosecurity, Hon Marion Hobbs, and Dr Barry O'Neil, MAF Director of Animal Biosecurity, this morning.
The discussion focused on the industry's concerns about support systems for the Exotic Disease and Pests Response
relating to the Varroa Mite incursion.
Other issues discussed included the miticide control agents and strategies for area containment where the mite is
discovered.
The industry representatives were reassured by the Minister's response and will be following up as appropriate.
ENDS
For further information: Lin McKenzie 025-357-970 Don Bell
04-473-7269