RCD: The Decision-Making Process
An extensive and comprehensive process will be followed in making any decision about whether to allow the importation of Rabbit Calicivirus Disease (RCD).
The Ministry of Agriculture, as decision-maker, is not and cannot be a proponent for the introduction of RCD. Any application to import and release the virus must come from an independent third party. It will be MAF’s job to assess this application against the criteria finally agreed.
MAF has released draft criteria for public discussion. Matters proposed for consideration include:
- The rabbit as a pest in New Zealand and the current situation;
- The justification for introducing alternative control strategies including biocontrol strategies;
- The suitability of RCD as a biocontrol agent in New Zealand;
- The intended programme in which RCD is proposed to be used;
- The impacts, positive and negative, of RCD; and
- The likely success of measures which can be employed to minimise negative impacts.
Once these criteria are agreed, and when an application is received, MAF will advertise for public submissions and will give full consideration to concerns that are raised.
MAF’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Barry O’Neil, will be in charge of the process of assessing any application, and the decision will be made by the Director-General of Agriculture, as required under the Biosecurity Act.
MAF will canvass as wide a range of opinions as possible and make sure all interested parties have their say before making a decision. At the same time, the Ministry will conduct the assessment as expeditiously as possible, because groups such as farmers and regional councils are anxious to know whether or not they can use this virus in their on-going fight against the rabbit pest.
It is not possible to put a timeframe on how long this process will take to complete satisfactorily and there is no deadline for introduction.
Contact for Enquiries
MAF Information Services
Pastoral House
25 The Terrace
PO Box 2526
Wellington, NEW ZEALAND
Fax: +64 4 894 0721
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