1080 decision 'highlights need for time out'

UnitedFuture leader Peter Dunne says the controversy surrounding todays decision to conduct aerial drops of 1080 in the Hunua Ranges emphasises the need to take a take time out on the use of 1080 as a pest control method to better assess its efficacy.

"UnitedFuture policy is to have a five year moratorium on the aerial dispersal of 1080, for two reasons.

"First, if 1080 is to be dropped aerially near urban communities or waterways, better information about the long-term effects of 1080 on not just the local bird population, but also human beings, needs to be established.

"In the absence of this, there is a strong risk of adverse public reactions over time making it impossible for any form of intrusive pest control to be carried out.

"That gives rise to the second reason for the moratorium - it provides an opportunity for redirecting some funding towards alternative pest control strategies and methods, and also for a more informed community debate about pest management strategies generally, and the role of 1080 in particular.

"Otherwise, there is a real risk of mounting public opposition to 1080 leading to its being banned before effective alternatives are put in place, and that would be simply disastrous for our biodiversity," he says.

Mr Dunne says a more holistic pest management strategy for our parks and recreation area is required, and sadly, todays decision means that both the Auckland Council and the Department of Conservation have passed up the opportunity to be part of developing that.

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1080 decision 'highlights need for time out'