Ag's wish list keeps growing
When the new National-led government is finally formed there will be a long list waiting for it to action from the primary industries sector.
Comments made by Deputy Prime Minister Bill English in relation to the suitability and work ethic of some young New Zealanders is, unfortunately, correct.
This is the message from Rural Contractors NZ (RCNZ) president Steve Levet.
Levet was commenting on English's recent remarks to a Federated Farmers meeting, saying there's a proportion of the work force that won't work and are "pretty damn hopeless".
"Bill English is right when he says that some younger New Zealanders, when offered the chance for work, won't take it, can't pass drug tests, or don't have an appropriate drivers licence," Levet says.
"Ask any rural contractor about some of the experiences they have had in trying to get people to fill vacancies in our sector over the years, and you will hear the same kind of comments that Mr English has.
"Every year, in many parts of the country, it's often impossible for rural contractors to find skilled New Zealanders who want to carry out this seasonal work," he explains. "That's why it is necessary for us to look overseas to find experienced people to fill this need."
Levet says Rural Contractors NZ has worked alongside the Ministry of Social Development in developing opportunities to employ young New Zealanders, but many of the applicants MSD tries to fill these vacancies with; either do not have the right skill-set and/or attitude to be successful.
"RCNZ will continue to work closely with the Government, political parties and officials to ensure that locals have the best opportunity for employment in our industry," he adds.
"But the reality is that the agricultural contacting sector – like many others – relies on overseas workers to fill a gap that is not met by locals – some of whom are unwilling to take on these vacancies."
Rural banker Rabobank is partnering with Food Rescue Kitchen on a new TV series which airs this weekend that aims to shine a light on the real and growing issues of food waste, food poverty and social isolation in New Zealand.
Telco infrastructure provider Chorus says that it believes all Kiwis – particularly those in the rural areas – need access to high-speed, reliable broadband.
World Veterinary Day falls on Saturday 27 April.
The Director General of MPI, Ray Smith says it's important for his department to celebrate the success of a whole range of groups and people around the country.
A small company which mobilised veterinarians around the country to deal with Mycoplasma bovis was one of the winners in this year's Biosecurity Awards, held at Parliament.
One of the country's top Māori sheep and beef farms is facing a five-year battle to get back to where it was before Cyclone Gabrielle struck just over 14 months ago.