Cancellation of rural school bus services ‘devastating’
Rural Women New Zealand’s (RWNZ) new president, Sandra Matthews, says the cancellation of rural school bus services could have devastating consequences.
Farmers have taken to social media to express outrage at the Government over a new levy.
Last week, Rural News reported that the New Zealand Agricultural Aviation Association (NZAAA) was unhappy with a proposed new aerial safety levy.
NZAAA claims the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) levy unfairly targets the ag sector and will increase the costs of aerial spreading of fertiliser and spraying of crops.
NZAAA is not alone in such claims, as evident in the social media reaction to the levy.
Popular New Zealand farming Facebook page, NZ Farming wrote, “Of all Government departments, the CAA must surely have the title of the most out of control with what they charge in terms of compliance costs.”
A top comment by Jeff Davis added, “This country has lost the plot with safety we have made a whole industry out of heath [sic] and safety it’s getting out of control.”
Another comment by BC Warren said, “Transporting people should attract the higher levy, contributing to growing food for the economy should be exempt.”
Agricultural aviation company Farmers Air wrote on their Facebook, “We think this type of levy is grossly unfair and is just another tax that will have to be passed onto our clients, please speak with you [sic] local Federated Farmers rep and local MP about this unfair tax. We don’t mind paying our way but we have seen no improved service or efficiencies in the way CAA conducts its business.”
What was clear within the social media reaction was disapproval for the current Labour-government, with many farmers feeling betrayed by Labour’s promise of no new taxes and supporting the primary sector.
“On the news tonight everyone is voting labour,” wrote Richard Langdon on the NZ Farming post, receiving only laughing reactions.
Fonterra says the US continues to be an important market for New Zealand dairy and the co-op.
Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says New Zealand's trade interests are best served in a world where trade flows freely.
New Zealand's red meat sector says it is disappointed by the United States' decision to impose tariffs on New Zealand exports.
OPINION: Farmers nationwide will be rubbing their hands with glee at the latest news from the Government about the RMA reforms.
Holstein Friesian NZ and Link Livestock have agreed on a strategic partnership to provide HFNZ members with comprehensive services from one of New Zealand's most respected dairy men.
Rural retailer Farmlands has launched a new casual clothing range available across 42 stores nationwide and through its online store.
OPINION: At last, a serious effort to better connect farmers and scientists.
OPINION: If you believe Maori Party president John Tamihere’s claim that “nothing dodgy” occurred at Manurewa Marae during the last…