Meat wellness, well done
Newly published research shows overseas consumers have a strong interest in improving their wellbeing through eating red meat, highlighting opportunities to achieve a premium for products with proven health benefits.
AgResearch plans to reduce scientist and technical roles in lower-demand areas.
The SOE says it is consulting with staff about the proposal. The lay-offs would occur in areas where customer demand and the potential to create impact for New Zealand are decreasing, AgResearch chair Sam Robinson says.
The proposal could see 33 scientists and 50 science technicians losing their jobs, however this will be partially offset by the introduction of 18 new scientist roles and 9 new science technician roles.
"AgResearch must balance shifts in our sector's research needs – and therefore revenue – with the need to respond to emerging science opportunities to maximise impact for New Zealand's pastoral sector." says Robinson.
He says that the reductions are due to declining R&D investment in some areas, leading to funding issues. AgResearch are predicting a $5.3 million drop in net science revenue for their 2016 financial year.
"These proposed changes are consistent with our overall strategy for science and what we have identified with our customers. We do not intend to completely stop research in any particular area."
"This is a difficult time for our people and they are our first priority through this process. We will be consulting with our staff on what's been proposed and listening to their feedback before making any final decisions," says Robinson.
"We expect to make a decision on the proposals at the end of October following consultation."
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.
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