Council of States wants swift action against invasive pests
Published: Tuesday, Dec 19th 2023, 12:20
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The Council of States wants to combat invasive pests such as the Asian hornet and the cherry vinegar fly. It is calling on the Federal Council to immediately approve effective treatment methods and clarify the responsibilities of the federal government.
On Tuesday, the Council of States adopted a motion by Peter Hegglin (center/ZG) by 30 votes to 5 with 7 abstentions. If the National Council also says yes to the motion, the Federal Council will have to act.
There is still no effective treatment for cherry vinegar flies, which make cherries inedible, and the situation is catastrophic, claimed Hegglin. A type of parasitic wasp that can harm the flies is only approved in the cantons of Jura and Ticino.
The situation is similar for the Asian hornet, which builds its nests in the treetops, explained Hegglin. Insecticides against this species are only permitted in cultivated areas, but are banned in forests. This leads to many people illegally using the chemical, said Hegglin and pleaded for an exemption.
The Federal Council rejects the motion, even though it supports the issue. With the revised Agriculture Act, it already has instruments at its disposal to combat pests, said Environment Minister Albert Rösti in the Council.
However, the requested immediate approval of treatment methods is not possible, as this would require exceptional approvals and amendments to ordinances, according to Rösti. In the National Council, he intends to request that the motion be amended to this effect.
©Keystone/SDA
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