Possible controlled release of RCD in New Zealand
A group has been formed to prepare an application to import RCD for controlled release against a background possibility of accidental or conscious unauthorised introduction of the disease in the near future. This group consists of the Hawke’s Bay, Canterbury, Otago and Southland Regional Councils; the Marlborough District Council; the Office of the Commissioner of Crown Lands; and Federated Farmers.
A controlled release would be preferable to an unauthorised introduction. The main reasons are that:
- with a controlled release there would be an assurance that the strain of virus imported was appropriate;
- no other contaminating organisms would be imported with the material; and
- the timing and location of release would be controlled to ensure that the disease had maximum effect on the target rabbit population.
If RCD is introduced legally, it will almost certainly be the Czech strain held at AAHL.
Once an application is received, MAF will follow an evaluation process which has been developed in consultation with interested parties. The process will involve public consultation.
A decision on the application will be taken by the Director-General of MAF and it will be based firmly on technical grounds.
Contact for Enquiries
Manager, Strategic Science Team
MAF Biosecurity New Zealand
PO Box 2526
Wellington
NEW ZEALAND
Phone: +64 4 894 0115
Fax: +64 4 894 0731
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