Wednesday, 04 March 2015 00:00

Relations thawing?

Written by 
Damien O'Conner Damien O'Conner

O'Conner says he had a very productive meeting with the group he once labelled ‘The National Party in Gumboots’ – Federated Farmers.

 At Parliament last week Feds Meat and Fibre section executive met with O’Connor for what may be seen as a landmark meeting. O’Connor praised Feds for their initiative, which he says involves “actively engaging” politicians from all parties. 

Until now meetings between Labour and Federated Farmers have been sporadic, he says, describing this latest initiative as a “very smart move” that will help shore up relations between Feds and the Labour caucus.

“I welcome the opportunity to host them back to meet a number of my colleagues on a wide range of issues. I know my colleagues are keen to meet with them to talk productively about the issues we share.” 

O’Connor says Labour is pro farming and that any “honest” farming leader will acknowledge Labour has made some of the most significant progressive changes in agriculture over the years.

More like this

Editorial: Long overdue!

OPINION: The Government's latest move to make freshwater farm plans more practical and affordable is welcome, and long overdue.

Featured

Taranaki dairy farms saved by $10/kgMS payout

Only this season’s $10/kgMS bumper payout has saved some dairy farms along the Taranaki coast from absolute disaster due to the present drought – dubbed as one of the worst ever for some.

National

Helping protect sheep from parasites

Everyone from experienced veterinarians and young professionals to the Wormwise programme and outstanding clinics have been recognised in this year’s…

Machinery & Products

Farmer-led group buys Novag

While the name and technology remain unchanged and new machines will continue to carry the Novag name, all the assets,…

Buhler name to go

Shareholders at a special meeting have approved a proposed deal that will see Buhler Industries, the publicly traded Versatile and…

» Latest Print Issues Online

The Hound

Make it 1000%!

OPINION: The appendage swinging contest between the US and China continues, with China hitting back with a new rate of…

Own goal

OPINION: The irony of President Trump’s tariff obsession is that the worst damage may be done to his own people.

» Connect with Rural News

» eNewsletter

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter