More questions than answers

Nearly 18 months on from the last level 4 lockdown, we find ourselves back in the same situation.  Unfortunately, it appears with this Level 4 lockdown the rules of the game have changed, due to the Delta variant and the increased transmissibility of the virus. 

The Auckland region will be at a higher alert level moving forward, for goodness knows how long.   Greenhouse growers are essential services and will continue as normal with strict protocols.  There have been questions regarding who is able to apply for travel exceptions in and out of regions with different alert levels.   How will this impact the movement of fresh vegetables and contractors/suppliers?

Fresh Vegetables:

Auckland is to stay in level 4, and when it eventually moves to level 3, for much longer periods than other regions.  When the borders are restricted with checkpoints back in place, this will increase time and protocols on the movement of fresh veg in and out of Auckland region.   The wheel of distribution needs to run as smoothly as possible to ensure fresh veg can reach every community.   How goods can be moved, without the risk of potentially transmitting Delta between regions, must be of great concern and a logistical obstacle.

Goods movement:

Another essential service for the greenhouse industry is the need to move goods, such as fertiliser and seedlings from propagation nurseries, between regions.  These are also essential services that must be maintained.

Suppliers/Contractor Movement required for different regions:

This leads to the question what contract services are deemed essential for greenhouses?  Are boiler repairers, greenhouse irrigation specialists and environmental computer specialists all regarded as essential workers?   If the answer is yes, will these essential contractors be granted exception to travel into and out of regions at different alert levels? I am sure most work can be carried out remotely but, in an emergency, it would be good to have assurance some specialists can be on site at very short notice.   

Stay safe and let’s hope we can eliminate the virus once again so we can all get back to some form of normality, if there is such a thing!  Hopefully in the next edition I can write about the answers and not have so many questions!

Groundhog Day!!

Article written and compiled by Stefan Vogrincic

All Article’s checked and edited by Marie Vogrincic

I appreciate your comments.  Please feel free to comment on the grower2grower Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/StefanGrower2grower/