NZ nears Mycoplasma bovis eradication milestone
A major milestone on New Zealand's unique journey to eradicate Mycoplasma bovis could come before the end of this year.
Farmers affected by Mycoplasma bovis and unhappy with compensation payments offered may go to arbitration and appeal, says MPI.
“Claimants can write back to us pointing out why they believe our assessments are incorrect and can provide further evidence of their losses. At the same time they can still bank the compensation payment,” said an MPI spokesman.
“If claimants are still unhappy they have rights under section 162a of the Biosecurity Act to take us to arbitration.”
MPI was responding to questions about Fernside Jersey breeder Peter Hansen, denied compensation for MPI’s blocking his importation of four Jersey cows from Australia.
While Hansen believes he is the only affected farmer so far denied compensation, MPI said this is not so.
“Others [have] claims in dispute. Some claimants are questioning the compensation payment but we are unable to provide further information for privacy reasons.”
By late April MPI had received 95 claims for compensation assessed at $5.8 million, and had paid out $3.22m. None of the claims then received related to the 28 farms whose herds were to be culled.
Meanwhile, the latest update lists 32 infected farms, and 53 properties under Restricted Place Notices.
MPI insists it cannot name affected farms because of the Privacy Act.
“This is the case for all farms under controls, whether it’s because they have a positive M.bovis infection status or because they are under suspicion and undergoing testing.
“Sometimes a property is under restrictions when there’s considered to be even a low risk of disease. These affected farmers have a right to privacy and it is up to them whether or not they want to inform others of the situation.”
Properties under RPNs may not move animals on or off premises without permission from MPI. While properties under notice of direction (NoD) must apply for a permit to move animals off their premises, they are free to move animals on to their property.
MPI said several farms are being tested without having a risk that requires movement restrictions. They are not legally required to take any special measures and may operate as usual.
Commercial fruit and vegetable growers are being encouraged to cast their votes in the Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) board directors' election.
A unique discovery by a Palmerston North science company, Biolumic, looks set to revolutionise the value and potential of ryegrass and the secret is the application of ultraviolet (UV) light.
A New Zealand company is redefining the global collagen game by turning New Zealand sheepskin into a world-class health product.
With further extreme weather on the way, ANZ Bank is encouraging farmers and business owners impacted by the recent extreme weather and flooding to seek support if they need it.
New Zealand must continue to educate Chinese consumers about the unique qualities of its red meat products and how they differ from competitors, says Silver Fern Farms chief executive Dan Boulton.
There are opportunities outside the farmgate for young farmers to further develop their skills, says 2025 Primary Industries Emerging Leader Award winner Bridie Virbickas.
OPINION: It's official, Fieldays 2025 clocked 110,000 visitors over the four days.
OPINION: The Federated Farmers rural advocacy hub at Fieldays has been touted as a great success.