Federated Farmers Praises Labour's Emissions Tax Backdown
For the first time in a quarter of a century, Federated Farmers has something positive to say about the Labour Party’s climate change policy leading into a general election.
Environment Southland (ES) is establishing a regional working group on climate change and inviting other local councils and Te Ao Mārama Inc. to join.
The group comes after a regional hui in July brought together governance and senior management from these organisations to hear from expert local and national speakers and to workshop what a climate change response means for Southland.
ES’s acting general manager strategy, planning and engagement Rachael Miller says the July hui gave the council an insight into what joint working looks like in the region.
“We heard from a broad range of speakers which stimulated productive discussions.
“We agreed to work in partnership to advance the Regional Climate Change Strategy and collaborate on other climate change work. This working group helps keep the momentum going in the right direction,” says Miller.
She says the purpose of the new working group will be to develop a joint climate change work programme and terms of reference that will drive the region’s long-term response to climate change.
One of the next steps will involve a visit from Dr Rod Carr, chairperson of the Climate Change Commission.
“The effects of climate change are being felt across the globe,” says Miller. “Europe was recently in the midst of one of its worst heatwaves where London has been hotter than the Sahara. These are reminders that we cannot let this issue fall by the wayside.
“By working together as one Southland, we can make a real impact on climate change for our region.”
National’s pledge to introduce 19 new national standards shows the party is serious about getting Wellington out of farming, Federated Farmers says.
The National Party’s policies to make it easier to grow fresh vegetables, secure reliable water and energy and simplify farm planning are practical changes that will give growers the confidence to invest, according to Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ).
Fonterra Co-operative Group chief financial officer Andrew Murray has resigned to take up a role outside the dairy giant.
A major move is about to get underway to improve the quality and viability of dairy beef and cattle in NZ.
Veterinarians say changes to the code of welfare for dairy cattle provides a positive foundation for improved cattle welfare across the country.
Today, 15 October, is the International Day of Rural Women, which recognises rural women’s contribution to farming, communities and the environment.

OPINION: The same mainstream media muppets that brought you Jacindamania in 2017 have been flat out pimping for the Opportunities…
OPINION: Your old mate reckons the atrocious way farmers in the UK are treated by their lords and masters in…