DISCUSSIONS to solve the issue of flying foxes in Mount Isa have been ramped up by city council and Rob Katter.
The State Member for Mount Isa recently engaged Environment Minister Steven Miles to explore options for effective management of flying foxes in Mount Isa.
“We’ve been able to open up the lines of communication between State Government so that Mount Isa City Council can fast-track a workable and effective plan for flying fox management,” Mr Katter said.
“The removal of flying foxes has always been a priority for the KAP but I was prompted by Mount Isa mayor Joyce McCulloch to help facilitate a localised plan for the complex situation at the cemetery,” he said.
“I acknowledge Environment Minister Steven Miles is keen to work within existing laws to resolve the issue for Mount Isa City Council.
“Through that conversation with the minister we’ve been able to get the head of the department to come to Mount Isa to work on a productive outcome to manage the problem.”
Mr Katter said councils needed more rights to use whatever means possible to ensure public health and safety in regards to flying foxes.
“I strongly disagree with the Government policy that denies the right to cull as a way to manage the expanding size of a flying fox colony.
“There are significant safety concerns that come with flying foxes in an urban area, such as the prevalence of ticks and also the increased risk of deadly viruses around flying fox populations.
“It is simply unsafe and unworkable for council workers and visitors to the cemetery.
“Flying foxes cause devastation in the areas they roost and the noise and smell is extremely unpleasant.”
Mayor Joyce McCulloch said the meeting set a path towards sustainable management of flying foxes.
"Council is pleased that we are now on track to an effective and productive management plan for flying foxes in Mount Isa," she said.
"This is an issue which has been a serious concern for the Mount Isa community for more than a decade."
