Avian flu poses top biosecurity threat to NZ, says Hoggard
Avian flu getting into New Zealand's poultry industry is the biosecurity threat that is most worrying for Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard.
Hoggard was due to retire at the Feds national AGM in July.
However, in a statement posted on Facebook overnight, Hoggard says he has made the difficult decision to step down from his role at Feds effective immediately.
Vice president Wayne Langford has stepped in as acting president until the National AGM.
“This is slightly earlier than I had intended with my term due to end in a little under two months, but there has been a lot of speculation about what I might do next after Feds,” says Hoggard.
“I want to be clear that my post-Feds plans aren't what I would describe as 100% locked and loaded. You’ll no doubt hear more about it if anything is confirmed but as the old saying goes - I don’t want to count my chickens before they’ve hatched.
“I’ve made the decision to stand down now because it’s much tidier for myself and the organisation. I want the focus to remain on the practicality, affordability, and sensibility of the policies that impact farming – not what I may or may not do next.”
Hoggard joined Feds 18 years ago as the Young Farmers' Rep to the Manawatu Provincial Executive.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time with Feds, and it’s opened up so many opportunities for me to do things and go places that I’d never have been able to if I’d just stayed on the farm instead of taking on roles with Feds.
“That being said I’ve always prided myself on being a ‘hands on farmer’ the whole way through this ride. I know from talking to many of you that you appreciated the fact that I have "kept it real" as the saying goes - with video messages delivered whilst getting cows in, feeding calves, and even calving cows.
“Of course, there have been challenges too and I won’t deny that I’m looking forward to being able to have an actual weekend off – after I take care of a few jobs I’ve been putting off on the farm.”
Hoggard thanked the Feds board for their support over the last couple of weeks.
The organisation is in great hands going forward, he adds.
“To all those members who have given me a pat on the back or words of encouragement over the years – thank you so much. That’s what I’ve valued the most during my time with the organisation.
“And finally, a big thank you needs to go to my family who have supported me throughout my time with Feds. It’s not always easy balancing the demands of Feds with the all the various issues that can go wrong on farm and the only way you can do it is with a supportive family. Especially of course my wife, who has been my rock through all the ups and downs.”
