Kiwifruit growers hope MPI will finally be held to account over the damaging PSA disease.
MPI was found to be negligent in allowing the disease into the country, but the department is appealing the High Court ruling.
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However, Kiwifruit Claim chairman, John Cameron, says growers are feeling confident.
"I'd have to say we're reasonably comfortable, the legal team believes that they are able to cement the strong evidence that we had in the three month trial in the High Court."
Mr Cameron says the growers are committed to fighting for fair compensation.
"I honestly think this is a milestone case to ensure that biosecurity is of importance to the rest of New Zealand.
"It's as simple as that to me, it's about accountability and making sure that these roles are met under their jurisdiction."
Mr Cameron says it's disappointing the Crown continues to fight the ruling.
With every year that compensation is pushed out, potential losses due to PSA increase and will be accounted for if and when there is a final settlement.
Early estimates put compensation at around $370 million, but in 2017 that was bumped up to $450 million. In July 2018 the Government almost doubled its estimate to $800 million and has not provided an updated prediction since.
Newshub.
