Editorial: Poison plan needs a re-think

Authorities using poison to kill pests is one of those issues that is bound to get people hot under the collar.

It is a touchy subject because there is nothing like the word poison to spread fear. But on the other hand, government agencies and local authorities sometimes have to take drastic action to control a problem.

There are countless examples around the world where a particular animal has been allowed to breed and flourish in an area to such an extend that it becomes a huge problem.

By that stage it is often too late and has become a divisive issue in the community.

As part of the Hawke's Bay Urban Biodiversity Strategy, a poisoning and trapping programme begins on Saturday across Poraiti and Park Island to the fringes of Tamatea and Parklands.

Some residents have concerns about this, especially bait stations being used in Park Island, which is a popular area for people walking their dogs. The concern is that dogs and even children could be get poisoned.

Th Hawke's Bay Regional Council says that the risk to pets is very minimal, and the work is done by experienced contractors. It also says similar programmes undertaken in Napier Hill and Havelock North have been successful and problem free.

The regional council says the programme contractor is to soon begin contacting Poraiti residents about their options for setting up possum control on their private property. This is one of those cases where a bit of common sense is needed on both sides.

Obviously anything that is harmful to animals and children should be used with care.

One dog owner this paper spoke to says he will not be walking his dog in the park anymore. Art Thomas said it was "such a populated and well-used area by children, adults and pets, that it raises questions as to whether there are other methods available for getting rid of possums, if indeed that is the big issue."

I have no problem with the contractors approaching private individuals about setting traps on their properties. It is up to the person concerned to say yes or no, but one has to question the need to extend the programme into a public park like Park Island.

Erring on the side of caution and re-re-assessing the need for the programme in Park Island should be something the regional council should consider.

I say rather be safe than sorry.