Editorial: Agri's mojo is back
OPINION: Good times are coming back for the primary industries. From sentiment expressed at Fieldays to the latest rural confidence survey results, all indicate farmer confidence at a near-record high.
The first phase of a Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) investigation into allegations of mistreatment of sheep connected to shearing practices has been completed.
The investigation follows claims from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) of shearers kicking and beating sheep on a farm linked to former American TV show host Matt Lauer.
MPI director compliance and response, Glen Burrell says the animal welfare team at MPI has analysed 235 video files and continue to speak to PETA, industry groups and farm owners.
They have also made “proactive” visits to farms, he says.
“I want to thank everyone for their support and cooperation so far,” Burrell says.
“We have identified some instances in the video footage which are very concerning, and these are our focus in the next phase of the investigation,” he says.
“There are a range of actions we can take in response, to ensure the protection of animals and to hold those who mistreat animals to account. In this case it could include prosecution and disqualifying individuals from working with animals.”
Separate to the investigation, MPI is working with wool sector groups to establish an oversight group to support good animal welfare practice and continuous improvement in the industry.
Newly elected Federated Farmers meat and wool group chair Richard Dawkins says he will continue the great work done his predecessor Toby Williams.
Hosted by ginger dynamo Te Radar, the Fieldays Innovation Award Winners Event put the spotlight on the agricultural industry's most promising ideas.
According to DairyNZ's latest Econ Tracker update, there has been a rise in the forecast breakeven milk price for the 2025/26 season.
Despite the rain and a liberal coating of mud, engines roared, and the 50th Fieldays Tractor Pull Competition drew crowds of spectators across the four days of the annual event.
Nationwide rural wellbeing programme, Farmstrong recently celebrated its tenth birthday at Fieldays with an event attended by ambassador Sam Whitelock, Farmers Mutual Group (FMG), Farmstrong partners, and government Ministers.
Six industry organisations, including DairyNZ and the Dairy Companies Association (DCANZ) have signed an agreement with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) to prepare the country for a potential foot and mouth outbreak.
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