MPI is fronting up over the demise of many kiwifruit growers' livelihoods

A 40 million dollar payout has been agreed to between the Government and kiwifruit growers.

It's to compensate for MPI's negligence in spotting the Psa disease, which went on to destroy many kiwifruit crops.

Ministry for Primary Industries Director General Ray Smith admits its been a lengthy battle.

He says it happened around 11 years ago when Psa was first found in kiwifruit vines.

Smith says the legal litigation process has taken place over a seven year period.