HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0212.239 1996-1998 ~lC,e,,t,~u
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Testimony to Hawaii County Council re: Bill 62 ~t~~~
Submitted by: Rory Flynn, P.O. Box 1333, Hilo, HI 96721
May 7, 1997
Chairman Arakaki and Council members, my name is Rory Flynn, representing the
Hawaii Agricultural Promotional Association.
1 am pleased to call the Council's attention to several letters directed to the Council
from the United Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Association as well as the Produce Marketing
Association, both encouraging your favorable consideration of Bi1162.
More importantly, both communications from the two leading national trade
organizations representing the fresh fruit and produce industries throughout North
America acknowledge the importance ofpost-harvest treatment for Hawaii farmers.
The Produce Marketing Association, representing 2,500 members marketing fresh fruits,
vegetables and floral products worldwide, states: "We are aware of the importance of this
measure to support apost-harvest treatment that will allow your state's growers to export
to mainland markets."
The United Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Association, in its letter to Chairman Arakaki, says
that it "encourages the exports of diversified crops from Hawaii" and "looks forward to
the expansion of the marketplace for the Hawaiian produce industry on the U.S.
mainland."
These are clear and welcome endorsements for Bill 62, for Hawaii's farmers, and for the
safety and market acceptance of irradiated food products. Contrary to the reckless
assertions of some in our community who pretend to speak for the food industry and
consumers everywhere, there is a growing and receptive market for irradiated fruits and
vegetables from Hawaii.
fhe two most important food industry trade organizations have spoken. They have
demonstrated their support and alliance with Hawaii farmers and the cause of our
agricultural exports. They support sound science, the established safety of irradiated
fruits and vegetables, and affirm the principle of free choice in the marketplace.
In your continued consideration of Bill 62, please consider the significance and credibility
of these letters of support. They testify to the willing support of mainland markets to
embrace our fruit and other produce. That's good news for our farmers and for the
County of Hawaii as we undertake this important step to support post-harvest treatment
for our agricultural exports.
Mahalo.
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saf, Data MAY 0 7 1997