Alerts
2/12/2009 - Equine Influenza Panel Announced
BRIEF:
The expert review panel to look at future Equine Influenza incursions has been appointed. The panel is composed of Mr. Roger Beale, Chair; David Watson, (Qld, finance/project manager/ex Qld politician), Michael Curll (ex NSW Department of Agriculture , Deputy Director, Science and Research) and Anne Kelso (virologist, WHO Influenza Collaborating Centre, Melbourne).
DAFF are providing the panel with background documents and an introductory briefing is planned for 27 February.
The announcement about the panel is below.
PIMC EQUINE INFLUENZA EXPERT REVIEW PANEL
In consideration of the significant costs incurred as a result of the response to the disease, the Animal Health Committee of the Primary Industries Ministerial Council is examining options to minimise the consequential impact of any future equine influenza outbreak. The Council has commissioned an independent expert panel to examine this work, consult with stakeholders and provide an opinion to Council on the options considered, conclusions and recommendations of Animal Health Committee.
It is anticipated that the Review Panel will hold consultation meetings in two or three capital cities and a formal submission process will not be undertaken.
Terms of reference:
1. Identify the consequences of a future incursion of equine influenza;
2. Consider strategies proposed for the prevention, mitigation and management of those consequences;
3. Assess the impact (both economic and amenity) of each strategy on national horse industry businesses and business owners, including the non-racing sectors;
4. Advise PISC on the costs and benefits of each strategy.
The Panel will review the work of Animal Health Committee, consult with stakeholders and report to PISC by June 2009.
DAFF will arrange for the provision of technical and secretariat support. Access to independent economic analytical advice will be provided.
PIMC is the Primary Industries Ministerial Council and is composed of the Federal and State Ministers of Agriculture or Primary Industries, depending on the State. PISC is the Primary Industries Standing Committee and is composed of the heads of the Departments of Agriculture or Primary Industries.