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Local workshop planned for Domestic Food Review

7 February 2005

A final workshop to explain the scope of the Domestic Food Review has been organised for all those who want to have a say in the government’s far-reaching review of the food regulation programme

The workshop, which is free, will provide a forum for open discussion and feedback on the work of the Domestic Food Review to date, and help clarify concepts and approaches.

The review has stirred great debate across the country. New Zealand Food Safety Authority Director of Policy, Carole Inkster, says: “Decisions made as a result of the review have the potential to affect every food producer and seller in New Zealand – from large factories to corner dairies, restaurants and takeaways.

“I encourage everyone involved in the New Zealand food industry to attend the workshop if you can or, at the very least, have a look at the discussion papers to see if you feel you need to make a submission.”

It is only the second time in the past 30 years that the government’s role in the New Zealand domestic food sector has been critically examined at official level. NZFSA estimates the DFR will be a five-year project.

The ultimate aim of the review is to improve food safety for consumers and ensure that those selling food are responsible for its safety and suitability, (labelling, etc).

“If you are involved in any kind of food production, preparation, handling or delivery then it could be critical for you to have your say,” says Carole.

The workshop will be held in Hamilton on 16 February, 9.30am – 12.30pm at silver Oaks ambassador, 86 Ulster Street (northern end of Victoria Street), Hamilton.

Five concept papers on the DFR have so far been released for public consultation. They cover introduction and context, regulatory roles, responsibilities and structures, proposed food control plans, implementation of food control plans and cost recovery. Submissions close on 28 February.

Copies of the papers are available from NZFSA’s website: www.nzfsa.govt.nz or by calling the NZFSA hotline: 0800 NZFSA 1 (0800 693 721). Email: info@nzfsa.govt.nz.

Submissions can be sent to:

Submissions – Domestic Food Review,
C/o Policy Group,
New Zealand food Safety Authority,
PO Box 2835,
Wellington.
Email: Robbie.thomson@nzfsa.govt.nz
Fax: 04 463 2501

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For further comment, contact: Carole Inkster, NZFSA Director of Policy.
Tel: 04 463 2505 or 021 241 2455.

For further information contact: Gary Bowering, Communications Manager.
Tel: 04 463 2531 or 027 44 32 550