Crazy
OPINION: Your canine crusader was truly impressed by the almost unanimous support given by politicians of all stripes in Parliament to the recent passing of legislation for the NZ/EU free trade deal.
Your canine crusader has been concerned for some time about the complete lack of fight put up by the so-called farmer-representative bodies on a number of controversial issues – including water reforms.
Many view these levy-taking, ‘farmer good’ organisations’ boards and executives as mere Quislings who are more concerned about cuddling up to government and officials than actually sticking up for their levy payers.
Rumour has it the chickens will come home to roost next year for this weak leadership when the Government will launch plans for an environmental tax regime as another stick to hit farmers with.
Reports say new Revenue (and Environment Minister) David Parker has work well underway of implementing such a regime which could see some farmers facing taxes of between $14,000 and $32,000 annually.
Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford is claiming “some real success” on the 12 policy priorities it placed before the Coalition Government.
Federated Farmers is throwing its support behind the Fast-track Approvals Bill introduced by the Coalition Government to enable a fast-track decision-making process for infrastructure and development projects.
The latest report from ANZ isn’t good news for sheep farmers: lamb returns are forecast to remain low.
Divine table grapes that herald the start of a brand-new industry in Hawke’s Bay have been coming off vines in Maraekakaho.
In what appears to be a casualty of the downturn in the agricultural sector, a well-known machinery brand is now in the hands of liquidators and owing creditors $6.6 million.
One of New Zealand’s deepest breeder Jersey herds – known for its enduring connection through cattle with the UK’s longest reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II – will host its 75th anniversary celebration sale on-farm on April 22.