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Biosecurity Minister David Carter says Horticulture New Zealand’s claim that New Zealand’s border protection has been significantly reduced because of the Rugby World Cup is rubbish.

“It’s ridiculous to suggest that New Zealand would relax its biosecurity safeguards as thousands of visitors pour into the country. Horticulture New Zealand is being alarmist about a screening process that has been in place at our airports for some time.

I would like to acknowledge local iwi for your warm welcome. I would also like to thank Craig Davey for inviting me to speak at your conference.

Thank you for your contribution to biosecurity in this country – your Institute does an important job. Of my four portfolios, biosecurity is the most critical. It is paramount in determining New Zealand’s economic well-being.

Customs Minister Maurice Williamson and Biosecurity Minister David Carter today welcomed the signing of a contract to develop a new border processing and management system.

New Zealand Customs, with MAF, has signed the contract which formally kicks off the development of a joint border management system (JBMS). The new system combines Customs’ and MAF’s existing independent systems, Cusmod and Quantum.

Mr Williamson said the new system would bring very sophisticated technology to the New Zealand’s border.

Biosecurity Minister David Carter has reiterated the Government’s commitment to Government Industry Agreements (GIA) in a round of meetings with leading industry representatives this week.

Mr Carter says strengthened partnerships between industry and government will lead to better results in dealing with incursions of pests and diseases.

“In discussion with industry, the Government has agreed to meet a minimum cost share of 50% for priority readiness and response programmes,” says Mr Carter.

Biosecurity Minister David Carter says biosecurity protection for farmers and growers is further strengthened with the official launch today of FarmsOnLine, a comprehensive database of rural properties.

Farm location, ownership and land use registered in the data service means the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry can rapidly respond in the event of a biosecurity emergency or natural disaster.

Agriculture and Forestry Minister David Carter has welcomed the plan to merge the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry with the Ministry of Fisheries.

Good evening and bonsoir ladies and gentlemen.

I’d like to take this opportunity to welcome you, Your Excellency, Mr Francis Etienne and wife Jane to New Zealand.

I thank you also Your Excellency and Dr Richard Wild, president of the New Zealand Veterinary Association, for hosting this evening’s event.

As Minister of Agriculture I am responsible for animal health and welfare, so I am very pleased to welcome guests to the New Zealand launch of World Veterinary Year.

New Zealand has a strong and long connection with France.