RWNZ chief executive to step down
Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ) chief executive Gabrielle O’Brien will step down at the end of June.
The forestry industry will face an onslaught of red tape and regulations if the current Forests Amendment Bill becomes law, claims National’s forestry spokesman Todd Muller.
“The Bill, as it currently stands, has the potential to inflict excessive, burdensome regulation and compliance costs on a forestry industry getting back off the canvas. We will be expecting major changes from the Select Committee process,” Muller says.
“National only supported the Bill to Select Committee because we agree with the intention of strengthening the forestry supply chain through increased transparency.”
Muller says the forestry industry worked tirelessly to improve management, safety and stewardship practices in light of COVID-19.
“It is appalling that they didn’t even see a copy of the Bill before it was taken to Parliament. Legislation like this shouldn’t be rushed. It needs to be worked through with those it affects most.”
He says National will be pushing for more engagement with the industry and asking for changes that make sure regulatory changes don’t place unnecessary burdens on businesses.
“The Minister needs to explain why the Bill is being pushed through so quickly and why there has been no consultation,” Muller adds.
“Forestry is a significant contributor to our economy and we should be encouraging forestry businesses to grow. Not constraining them with burdensome costs and regulations.”
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.