Finally, a deal is here
News that NZ and the UK have agreed 'in principle' to the terms of the free trade agreement (FTA) will come as welcome news to the dairy sector.
British vets are nervous about changes that may arise from Brexit, says British Veterinary Association (BVA) president Gudrun Ravetz.
Speaking at BVA’s annual London dinner in Westminster last week, she said many members are concerned about the threat Brexit poses for UK animal health and welfare.
“Yet we can also see the opportunities Brexit presents, and BVA is determined to work with the Government to seize these opportunities, where they exist, to improve standards.
“The veterinary family – which is my focus as BVA president – is part of the international scientific community, and we are a diverse profession with far-reaching influence and impact in many areas of political and public life .... A healthy veterinary workforce is vital for UK animal and human health.”
The residence or working rights of UK-based EU vets will be a ‘top five’ priority for the profession in forthcoming Brexit negotiations.
The UK veterinary profession relies heavily on EU graduates.
Ravetz says many have felt the impact of the EU referendum result since day one.
“In the meat hygiene sector alone, some estimates suggest 95% of veterinary surgeons graduated overseas.
“That’s why our first action after June 23 was to call on UK governments to protect the status of EU veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses now living and working in the UK. It was encouraging to see some of these key priorities… make it into the Prime Minister’s list of negotiating priorities.
“But we have said from the outset that our members need certainty and reassurance, so we urge the Government to make that firm commitment now.”
Farmer-led charity, Meat the Need is calling for donations to enable it to supply more meals to families in need.
Weaker pricing and demand from China continue to impact New Zealand red meat export earnings.
Fonterra has cemented its position as the country’s number one cheesemaker by picking up nine NZ Champion of Cheese trophies this year.
New Zealand dairy processors are welcoming the Government’s commitment to continuing to push for Canada to honour its trade commitments.
An educational programme, set up by Beef + Land New Zealand, to connect farmers virtually with primary and intermediate school students has reported the successful completion of its second year.
Horticulture NZ chief executive Nadine Tunley will step down in August.