Plant Protection Act, 2005 (No. 16 of 2005).

This Act concerns the prevention and control of pests and diseases affecting plants including seed, germplasm and parts of plants. The primary responsibility for the administration of this Act lies with the Minister responsible for agriculture. The Ministry of Agriculture is designated the National Plant Protection Organisation (NPPO). The duties of the NPPO shall include, among other things: (a) implementing the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) and the International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures established thereto, including the responsibilities required under Article IV of the IPPC (among others, issuing phytosanitary certificates); (b) enforcing this Act, as well as any other legislation relating to plant protection as may be specified; (c) establishing procedures for accrediting quarantine stations, official analysts, official laboratories, or any other person or institution from the public or private sector involved in phytosanitary matters. The Public Service Commission or the Minister, as the case may be, may appoint or designate officers of the NPPO to carry out the duties assigned to inspectors under this Act. Duties of Inspectors are specified.