MPI Boss Says H5N1 Will Inevitably Reach New Zealand
Don’t worry about it but just be aware - that’s the message from Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) director-general Ray Smith as the H5N1 strain of bird flu is found in Australia.
This was announced by Foundation for Arable Research (FAR) chief executive Alison Stewart this afternoon.
“We are aware that the wording around registering as an essential service has been confusing, and have sought clarification from MPI around the process and what advice we can give to you,” she said in a message to farmers.
“They have now confirmed that if you are a farmer with five or fewer people (including the owner) working at your farm business, and you are able to achieve social distancing measures between staff in your workplace, including travelling, to and from work, then you do not need to register.
“If you have more than five staff (including yourself) and/or you cannot guarantee 2 metre distancing of staff due to the type of work being carried out, then you must fill out and submit the Safe Practice Registration Form on the MPI website.”
This advice also applies to any contractors or industry personnel visiting or working on your property. Remember, that although your farm is still operational, you must enforce the physical distancing rules.
“We are aware that many of you are receiving emails such as these from several sources, and that it can be annoying,” says Stewart.
“However, as a levy body, we are obliged to keep in contact and will continue to do so. We will endeavour to keep emails as short as possible and only send them out when information changes.”
For more information, go to the MPI website to register or contact MPI on 0800 00 83 33.
Or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for further details on registering or the registration process.
