The New Zealand Equine Health Association (NZEHA) signed the GIA Deed on 26 January, becoming the fifth organisation to become part of the GIA partnership.
The New Zealand Equine Health Association (NZEHA) signed the GIA Deed on 26 January, becoming the fifth organisation to become part of the GIA partnership.
Dr Ivan Bridge, Chair of NZEHA, said he sees signing the GIA Deed as common sense. “Biosecurity is a shared responsibility, and it needs everyone to be on board. We are currently working with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) and industry groups to ensure we continue to have cogent and forcible response processes in place for high-risk diseases.”
An outbreak of equine influenza, which New Zealand is currently free of, could cost the equine industry tens of millions of dollars, halting racing, horse shows and breeding. The equine industry contributes more than $1.6 billion to New Zealand’s economy.
The Minister for Primary Industries, Hon Nathan Guy, commented, “This means the horse racing, recreational and breeding industry and the Ministry for Primary Industries can work together to manage and respond to the most important biosecurity risks.
"I’m pleased the industry has recognised the value that GIA offers in terms of working together to maximise our collective strengths.”
NZEHA represents the equine industry on disease, health and welfare issues. Kiwifruit Vine Health, NZ Pork, Pipfruit NZ and the Ministry for Primary Industries signed the GIA Deed in 2014.
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