BEEKEEPERS

In reply to the Hon. G.M. GUNN (Stuart) (14 May 2009).

The Hon. J.W. WEATHERILL (Cheltenham—Minister for Environment and Conservation, Minister for Early Childhood Development, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation, Minister Assisting the Premier in Cabinet Business and Public Sector Management): I am advised:

The policy on beesites in parks has not changed. Existing licensed apiary sites on reserves can be maintained and can be transferred to another licence holder provided this is also in accordance with a Park Management Plan.

Although access to current sites can continue, a precautionary approach is taken in regard to extending access to parks for apiary use and the opening up of new sites is not generally supported. This is to ensure that native flora and fauna are protected and not impacted by the establishment of an apiary site or displaced by honeybees through competition for food and shelter.