ACT MPs Slam Green Party's Fertiliser Ban Policy
Retiring MP and dairy farmer Mark Cameron is blasting the Green Party for proposing to ban the use of synthetic fertiliser and cutting cow numbers.
Federated Farmers president Andrew Hoggard says departing DairyNZ chief executive Tim Mackle has led the levy group through a period of industry growth.
Mackle announced his resignation earlier this week after 15 years as DairyNZ’s chief executive.
“After a lot of thought and discussion with family, I have decided to step down at the end of June which will allow the Board time to have a smooth transition and to recruit my successor,” Mackle said in a statement on Tuesday.
“I am proud to have had the opportunity to lead DairyNZ over this period, the dynamism and constant challenge and change in our sector has made it an exciting and purposeful role.”
Hoggard says that under Mackle’s leadership DairyNZ “has supported farmers to improve environmental performance and adjust to increasing regulatory compliance”.
“Tim has always been a pleasure to work with, he is well liked and well respected for his collaborative and positive approach to work,” he says.
DairyNZ chair Jim van der Poel is also acknowledging Mackle’s contribution to both DairyNZ and dairy farmers during his tenure.
“Tim has always been hugely passionate about helping dairy farmers navigate challenges they have faced and continue to face,” van der Poel says.
He says the industry good organisation has been “fortunate” to have had Mackle through several challenging periods.
“I would also like to personally acknowledge Tim. I have immense respect for Tim. Firstly, for the commitment and integrity that he brings to the role and the way he always conducts himself. And, for the huge intellect and passion he brings.”
The recruitment process for a new DairyNZ chief executive will begin shortly.
Associate Agriculture Minister Mark Patterson says his party – NZ First - isn’t opposed to the “trade element” of a free trade deal with India.
The managing director of a company seeking to build a solar farm in Canterbury says receiving fast-track approval is a “really positive outcome”.
Retiring MP and dairy farmer Mark Cameron is blasting the Green Party for proposing to ban the use of synthetic fertiliser and cutting cow numbers.
A huge reduction in ACC claims from on-farm accidents over the last five years is due to thousands of small, practical decisions being made in sheds, yards, paddocks and around kitchen tables across the country, says Safer Farms ambassador Lindy Nelson.
Wayne and Ange Moxham of Horowhenua have just been named as Fonterra's top organic performer for milksolids. As well as providing organic milk to Fonterra, the couple also sell Udderly Organic milk to more than 100 outlets in the region and are embarking on another exciting venture producing organic gelato. Reporter Peter Burke went along to see their farming operation.
Certainty and a clear understanding of the needs of rural communities is a critical outcome in the series of government reforms that are taking place at present.

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