Feds welcomes health and safety resets
Federated Farmers says the health and safety changes announced this week by the Government represent the start of overdue reforms.
Farmers are throwing their support behind the Farm Debt Mediation Scheme.
The scheme requires creditors to offer mediation to farmers who default on payments before they take any enforcement action.
Federated Farmers says the scheme is one farmers would hope to never have to use, but it’s a useful backstop if a farm’s finances do go pear-shaped.
"We strongly supported this legislation as it was shaped and debated by the select committee and Parliamentary processes over the last year or so and we’re glad it’s now in place," says Federated Farmers president and commerce spokesperson Andrew Hoggard.
The Federated Farmers May 2020 Banking Survey showed more than 80% of farms carry a mortgage and overdraft.
While 69% of the 1,400 farmers who responded were ‘satisfied’ or ‘very satisfied’ with their banks, 19% felt ‘under pressure’ from their banks, rising to 28% among arable farmers.
"It’s an uneven playing field in terms of available resources when a farmer and bank are in dispute. This legislation provides a platform for mediated communication," says Hoggard.
"Although we hope it won’t have to be used very often, it will have done its job if it helps banks and farmers find enduring and sustainable solutions before it is too late."
Farmers wishing to access the scheme should visit the MPI website.
Rural retailer Farmlands has launched a new casual clothing range available across 42 stores nationwide and through its online store.
Federated Farmers says the health and safety changes announced this week by the Government represent the start of overdue reforms.
The Government is calling on rural New Zealanders to share their views on proposed regulations designed to improve the management of farm plastic waste.
For many urban New Zealanders, stepping into Pāmu’s Pinta dairy farm near Taupo last month was the first time they had had the chance to experience farm life up close.
After tasting 240 New Zealand made cheeses, judges have bestowed medals upon 199 of the entries.
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