Sarah Courtney, Minister for Primary Industries and Water
I welcome the Federal Government’s announcement today that tougher penalties will apply to those who tamper with fruit.
The impact of the current needle contamination in strawberries is being felt by growers in mainland states.
I urge consumers to keep buying strawberries.
Consumers can be confident in the national strawberry industry.
While I appreciate the current health concerns, strawberries can still be consumed as long as consumers follow public health advice.
The Tasmanian Government is working with local growers and we are hopeful this ordeal is settled before the commencement of the Tasmanian strawberry season in coming weeks.
Those perpetrators who are involved in these appalling and dangerous incidents should be penalised to the full extent of the law.
