Biosecurity New Zealand has provided an update on the progress of the Mycoplasma bovis control operation, saying more than $25 million has been paid out to affected farmers so far.
Biosecurity Minister Damien O'Connor and Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern issued a joint statement today with updated figures on all aspects of the operation.
They also announced the establishment of a recovery package to "to help farmers get back to business more quickly after being cleared of Mycoplasma bovis".
"I know it’s been an extremely tough time for many farmers," Ms Ardern said.
"Losing herds, pets and years of stock genetics built up over decades is an incredible hit to take for New Zealand's one shot to protect our national herd and economic base.
"For those families whose farms have been cleared of Mycoplasma bovis, restocking marks an important turning point – it allows them to begin moving forward again.
"The Government remains committed to phased eradication, which is progressing well, and to helping farmers get back to business."
Improved guides and calculation resources will soon be available to farmers, the release said, and dedicated and experienced compensation team has been set up by Beef + Lamb NZ and DairyNZ.
The Ministry for Primary Industries has also now trained 80 rural support staff to help farmers with their welfare.
Mr O'Connor said the eradication response is making good progress.
"Today places a spotlight on the resilience of our primary sectors and those who work in them, with the focus on support for farmers who are helping to rebuild the national herd to full strength," he said.
"It's important to remember that confirmation of newly identified properties does not mean the disease is spreading.
'It means we are tracing historically infected cattle and milk movements, many of which occurred before the disease had been discovered.
"Working closely with our farming industry partners, the Government remains confident eradication is on-track and we have a good chance of success.
"I thank all farmers who have helped get us to this point."
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