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: Claims by Damien O'Connor that his government's crazy plan for pricing and taxing farm emissions is "now open to consultation with the sector before a final decision is made" should be taken with a large grain of salt.
The supposed 'consultation' period closes on November 18, which has given the entire agriculture sector less than a month to respond to the Government's proposal.
This is true to form for this self-proclaimed 'most open and transparent government in NZ's history'.
Remember the 'consultation' it did with the sector over its freshwater reforms?
Or how about the 'consultation' it carried out with farmers over its winter grazing regulations?
And, of course, let's not forget the 'consultation' the Government recently conducted over its 3 Waters reforms, which ignored any criticism and shut out thousands of submissions against the changes!
Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay is encouraging farmers and growers to stay up to date with weather warnings and seek support should they need it.
The closure of SH2 Waioweka Gorge could result in significant delays and additional costs for freight customers around the Upper North Island, says Transporting New Zealand.
OPINION: The year has started positively for New Zealand dairy farmers and things are likely to get better.
Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) Director General Ray Smith believes there is potential for an increase in dairy farming in New Zealand.
New Zealand's new Special Agricultural Trade Envoy, Horowhenua dairy farmer, company director and former Minister of Agriculture, Nathan Guy says the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with India is a good deal for the country.
New figures show dairy farmers are not only holding on to their international workforce, but are also supporting those staff to step into higher-skilled roles on farm.

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