Damien O’Connor: NZ united on global trade
When it comes to international trade, politicians from all sides of the aisle are united, says Labour's trade spokesman Damien O'Connor.
OPINION: This old mutt notes that at the recent release of the Government's response to agricultural emissions, there was only the PM, Ag Minister, Climate Change Minister and local Labour MP - a non-descript, little man with a beard - fronting up to media.
Absent were members of the infamous He Waka Eke Noa (HWEN) partnership - including its two biggest proponents, Beef+Lamb chair Andrew Morrison and DairyNZ chair Jim van der Poel.
Usually, whenever there's been any government agricultural announcement of note over the past 5 years, Morrison and van der Poel have been loyally nodding behind the PM, helping to hold her handbag - along with Damien O'Connor.
Does this mean the two big ag industry chairs are no longer in the loop? Or, have they both finally seen the light and realised that the Government is about to screw the ag sector and want no part of it?
It's probably a little too late for this stance now!
Coming in at a year-end total at 3088 units, a rise of around 10% over the 2806 total for 2024, the signs are that the New Zealand farm machinery industry is turning the corner after a difficult couple of years.
New Zealand's animal health industry has a new tool addressing a long-standing sustainability issue.
The Government has announced that ACC will be a sponsor of this year's FMG Young Farmer of the Year competition.
As veterinary student numbers grow to help address New Zealand's national workforce shortge, Massey University's School of Veterinary Science is inviting more veterinary practices to partner in training the next generation of vets.
South Island dairy farmers will soon be able to supply organic milk to Fonterra.
Norwood has announced the opening of a new Tasman dealership at Richmond near Nelson next month.

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