Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF) CEO Michael Bartlett says the reality check of termite infestation in Fiji is “scary”.
He made this comment during the opening of the Termites Taskforce Meeting last Friday.
“BAF commissioned the world leading expert on AST, Dr Theo Evans from Australia to do a very comprehensive analysis of the situation of AST here in Fiji,” he said.
“We looked at two models, the prevention and eradication model. The prevention model is basically business as usual (BAU). If we carry on now the way we’re doing the economic modellers in Perth believe that we could be looking at $3 billion worth of losses by 2060 in terms of infrastructure, businesses, and loss of property on Viti Levu.
“On Vanua Levu you’re looking at $620m in losses. So, you’re looking at a $3.6b estimate if we do nothing — that’s’ what we will be looking at.”
Mr Bartlett said the eradication model believed there was a possibility to eradicate Asian subterranean termite (AST) in circa 10 years.
“However, a high-level of efficacy for detection and this comes down to ability on the number of people you’ve got working on the ground.
“We’re talking about hundreds of staff and not even hands and you’re looking at a cost to do that of $1.64b in 10 years so $164m a year and that’s the scientific reality of it according to the world leading expert.”
He said there was a need for stakeholders to accumulate and combine intelligence and experience to try and find a workable solution.
“I am not going to answer for the Ministry of Finance or the Prime Minster, but I would believe that sort of figures is not sustainable.”
