COM 0212.395 1996-1998 - Laserfiche WebLink

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To begin with, let's examine whether we need a facility at all. If it were not needed we wouldn't build it. So, let's question that "need". Fruit flies have been around for at least as long as humans so why don't they already live in Califomia and Washington State? And, why is it that both California and Washington presently import fruit from known fruit fly zones and do not require that fruit to be irradiated? Let's go to the entomologists and find out whether the fruit fly can live in significant numbers in Califomia and Washington -after some 20 million years on the planet they are not there so they probably can't. Then, let's go to the Federal Trade Commission and see if discriminatory exclusion from California and Washington markets constitutes unfair trade practices - it would certainly seem that is the case. If this doesrLt demonstrate that an irradiator is not needed let's look at another option. To a large extent our visitor industry was sparked by the Dole and Del-monte pineapple and their product was exported as a processed or canned item. If we were to expand on this idea we could develop a presence in all the major markets of the world with premium tropical fruit products such as jams, jellies, preserves, juices etc., and my guess is if we don't spoil our reputation by becoming known as purveyors of irradiated food the "Made in Hawaii" label will perform its magic - and I don't think the supply could ever outstrip the demand. Furthermore, the best fruit would stay at home to be shared with our visitors and that is the Host -Guest relationship which will secure our visitor industry. So, Mr. Mayor, members of the council, everyone, let's start over, acquire the vision for the future, gather the truths, make the plan and proceed with all on board -let's look for awin-win. Word Count: 546 ~