Dates have now been set for five hearings to be held in May 2010 as part of the next stage of the methyl bromide reassessment process.
The period for commenting on the application for reassessment closed in late February 2010. A total of 92 submissions were received. ERMA New Zealand is now reviewing submissions. Once done, the staff will prepare an update paper for the decision-making committee of the Environmental Risk Management Authority to consider. This will include a summary of submissions and any further relevant information, as well as the staff’s recommendation in light of submissions.
Some of the issues raised in the submissions include buffer zones, modelling, monitoring, recapture and public health concerns.
Approximately 40 per cent of submitters asked to speak at a hearing.
The hearings are set down for:
- Monday, 17 May in Wellington;
- Tuesday, 18 May in Nelson;
- Wednesday, 19 May in Picton/Blenheim;
- Thursday, 20 May in Tauranga; and
- Friday, 21 May in Auckland.
Venues and times will be confirmed shortly and submitters who have asked to speak at a hearing will be contacted to make arrangements.
After the hearings, the Environmental Risk Management Authority will consider all information put before it, from all sources, before making its decision on future use of the substance.
The decision could approve the use of methyl bromide for some or all of its current uses, add stricter controls, or prohibit some or all of its uses.
A final decision is expected in mid to late 2010.
For further information on the reassessment, visit the homepage at
http://www.ermanz.govt.nz/hs/methyl%20bromide/index.html
Members of the public are welcome to attend the hearings, though only submitters may speak.
If you would like to attend a hearing, please register your interest with Samantha Smith, samantha.smith@ermanz.govt.nz, 04 918 4880 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 04 918 4880 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, to ensure you are advised of venues and times.
