There are some points that I agree with Mike Chapman the CEO of NZ Kiwifruit Growers Inc and others I strongly disagree with.
I agree that EPA (Environmental Protection Authority) formerly ERMA, makes the call about risk management of agri-chemicals such as Hi-cane - as they did in 2006. I went to Wellington and met with EPA and raised concerns that were not raised when they last assessed Hi-cane.
They gave me a commitment to come to Tauranga and see these concerns first-hand. That was 2 years ago and I'm still waiting. Nowhere in that meeting was I told that independent research had been done on Hi-cane and the effects on the health of human beings. I also agree with Mike when he says Hi-cane poses a risk to human health and safety and to the environment.
The time has come for us all to get honest with each other and put Hi-cane to the test, once and for all. Surely, there are scientists out there who can help. If a green light comes back I will walk away from the 14 years of my own research and let mother nature and papatuanuku (Mother Earth) take their course. As for the many letters and emails I've received over the years, all with relevant concerns about Hi-cane, I suggest you start your own protest or petition.
With regard to the spray groups, the yellow bags on letter boxes and the Cuzzie Cones, I have only seen two used in this last season, so that is just a band aid on a weeping wound.
Like the song says: ‘When will we ever learn?'

Tommy ‘Kapai' Wilson, Te Puna.