The detection of another case of Potato Mop Top Virus is yet more evidence our state is facing increasing biosecurity challenges. As climate change accelerates biosecurity threats in Tasmania, it is vital that the agencies on the frontline are fully funded and properly resourced.
News of another detection of the Potato Mop Top Virus is concerning for many Tasmanians. Potato Mop Top Virus is unfortunately here to stay. How Tasmania lives with Potato Mop Top Virus in a less predictable climate and shifting weather patterns remains unknown, and it’s no wonder Tasmanians are worried.
Biosecurity Tasmania and Primary Industries Minister Gavin Pearce should be commended for keeping Tasmanians well informed about the virus spread and the Greens encourage that same level of timely information sharing and transparency to be applied to other biosecurity issues.
Biosecurity agencies in Tasmania already have a huge task to urgently deal with weeds and invasive species – the increase of diseases like the Potato Mop Top Virus, Piscireckettsia salmonis and impending risk of Avian influenza are big challenges. With our climate changing, there’s only going to be an increase in the number and severity of diseases.
Climate change is making our state more vulnerable to pests and diseases which thrive in the altered weather patterns and warming conditions, and that threaten our crops and livelihoods.
Stronger biosecurity measures and urgent action on climate change are essential to safeguard our food supply, to protect our wild places and regional communities. The Greens call on the Liberals to commit to increasing funding for biosecurity in Tasmania, to safeguard our unique island into the future.
