Persona non grata?
OPINION: A mate of yours truly wonders just exactly how some of the so-called ‘leaders’ in the ag sector will fare if there is a change of Government on Oct 14.
As of August 25 one in five registered voters had cast their vote and Parsons is encouraging farmers to return their voting papers before the polls close on September 10.
“It is important for farmers to have their say and ensure that the organisation has a strong mandate to continue its activities on behalf of farmers.”
By the end of this week farmers throughout the country will have had the opportunity to attend one of the 53 referendum information meetings being hosted by Beef + Lamb NZ Directors, the local farmers of the Beef + Lamb NZ Farmer Council and members of Beef + Lamb NZ’s senior management team.
“At this midpoint we’ve seen over 600 farmers turn out to talk to us and hear what their organisation is planning in the next six year levy cycle.
“There’s good awareness among farmers and we want to make sure that’s turned into active participation in the vote,” Parsons says.
Beef + Lamb carries out regular independent research to monitor its performance and guide its delivery of activities that farmers have said are important to them, says Parsons. It includes a strong coordinated voice on farmers’ behalf around issues like health and safety, environment, market access and trade policy, market development, research and development and attracting bright young people into the industry.
It is important for the organisation to have a strong mandate to continue its activities on farmer’s behalf, says Parsons. For this reason Beef + Lamb wants to make sure all farmers know that now is the time to vote to continue the organisation.
Farmers who have not received their voting papers should call 0800 233 352.
Voting closes on September 10. Postal votes need to be in the mail by September 5 and after that date, all votes will need to be cast online by following the prompts on www.beeflambnz.com/referendum
