Crazy
OPINION: Your canine crusader was truly impressed by the almost unanimous support given by politicians of all stripes in Parliament to the recent passing of legislation for the NZ/EU free trade deal.
A bill aiming to create a national standard for organic products will be considered by Parliament.
The Organic Products Bill, introduced by agriculture minister Damien O’Connor, provides a framework for the development of standards for all organic products in New Zealand.
It sets requirements for all businesses involved in the production through to the sale of organic products, with the sole exception of retailers of pre-packaged products.
The Government says the purpose of the bill is to:
• increase consumer confidence in the purchasing of organic products,
• increase certainty for businesses making organic claims,
• facilitate international trade in organic products.
Organics Aotearoa New Zealand (OANZ) has been working with the Government and MPI to introduce the legislation for the past two years.
The national representative of the organic sector says it is delighted about the bill’s introduction to Parliament.
“It’s fantastic that the Government have recognised the importance of organics not only to the consumer but also to the overall economic security and future of farming in New Zealand,” says Chris Morrison, chair of OANZ.
“OANZ will be participating in the consultation process with Government to help ensure that we get regulations that meet the needs of all our members.”
The country’s 4200 commercial fruit and vegetable growers will vote from May 14 on a new HortNZ levy.
Meat processor Alliance Group is asking farmer shareholders to inject more capital in order to remain a 100% co-operative.
A vet is calling for all animals to be vaccinated against a new strain of leptospirosis (lepto) discovered on New Zealand dairy farms in recent years.
Dairy
Rural banker Rabobank is partnering with Food Rescue Kitchen on a new TV series which airs this weekend that aims to shine a light on the real and growing issues of food waste, food poverty and social isolation in New Zealand.
Telco infrastructure provider Chorus says that it believes all Kiwis – particularly those in the rural areas – need access to high-speed, reliable broadband.
OPINION: The new government has clearly signalled big cuts across the public service.
OPINION: Your canine crusader is not surprised by the recent news that New Zealand plant-based ‘fake meat’ business is in…