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: The Hound is bitterly disappointed to learn that the Ministry of Education has awarded an American company the contract to install nylon carpet in 800 rural schools around the country.
This is a major slap in the face to NZ's struggling strong woolgrowers.
Where has the Minister of Agriculture Damien O'Connor been on this subject?
It seems, like his government, O'Connor is missing in action (MIA) again when it comes to backing the ag sector.
He is all talk and no action.
Especially since O'Connor was all talk when setting up the Wool Working Group and Wool Impact Ltd and claiming at the time it would be "fantastic" if strong wool became the first choice of fibre and businesses.
Did he speak to his counterpart Education Minister Jan Tinetti about this contract and ask if she had looked at the NZ wool option?
What's the bet he didn't?
Thanks - again - for nothing, Damien!
OPINION: As negotiations advance on the India-New Zealand FTA, it’s important to remember the joint commitment made by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon at the beginning of this process in March: for a balanced, ambitious, comprehensive, and mutually beneficial agreement.
Minister for Universities, Shane Reti, has opened the final new build in a ten plus year project to upgrade the veterinary facilities at Massey University.
As New Zealand experiences more frequent and severe flooding events, the Insurance & Financial Services Ombudsman Scheme (IFSO Scheme) is urging consumers to be honest and accurate when making insurance claims for flood damage.
A recently held arable field day in the Manawatu brought with it a timely reminder to be on the lookout for velvetleaf incursions.
In a significant shift for employers, wage theft is no longer only a civil matter but now also a criminal one.
In partnership with Growing Future Farmers (GFF), Fonterra says it is increasing support for young people entering the dairy industry with a new two-year programme.

OPINION: Every time politicians come up with an investment scheme where they're going to have a crack at 'picking winners'…
OPINION: What are the unions for these days?