Letter to the Editor Christchurch Press published 12 March 2007
We disagree with the view expressed by Dr Jack Heinemann about Food Standards Australia New Zealand’s (FSANZ) independence (The Christchurch Press, 2 March 2007).
FSANZ is a trans-Tasman Agency that develops food standards for both New Zealand and Australia. FSANZ is an independent government agency jointly funded by the Australian government and with funding from the New Zealand government by way of a treaty. Our job is to prepare food standards that protect the public health and safety of New Zealanders and Australians. FSANZ uses open and transparent assessment processes supported by high quality science. Our science is subject to independent peer review at national and international levels.
FSANZ is governed by a very strict accountability regime in accordance with its establishing legislation, theFSANZ Act,and its obligations under theCommonwealth Authorities and Companies Act 1997. There are also high level, legislated ethical obligations that we, as public servants, must adhere to under the Public Service Code of Conduct.
FSANZ’s legislative obligations and our annual reports, which include independently audited financial reports, are all available on the FSANZ website www.foodstandards.govt.nz . Consideration of these should allay all of the concerns raised.
Dean Stockwell
General Manager Food Standards (Wellington)
Food Standards Australia New Zealand