Head of group fighting Psa announced

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The organisation set up to lead the response to the bacterial disease PSA has appointed its general manger.

John Burke, a kiwifruit grower, would take up the position as general manager for Kiwifruit Vine Health (KVH) immediately, KVH chairman Peter McBride said.

As head of KVH he would lead the industry's response to PSA and develop a long term strategy to combat the disease, Mr McBride said.

"I fully recognise the serious challenges that lay ahead for KVH and am exhilarated about being part of the solution for the New Zealand industry," Mr Burke said.

At least 100 orchards have had the bacterial disease confirmed in their vines since Zespri was first told of the suspected infection on November 5.

KVH was formally set up on December 1 and will take over some of the work which has been done by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry.

- NZPA