Less Wellington in the way of farming
OPINION: For many farmers, the biggest regulatory challenge they face is the myriad things that the Resource Management Act throws up.
Associate Minister of Agriculture, Andrew Hoggard says the Government is progressing its commitment to reinstate live exports by sea.
He says public consultation on the issue will start before September.
The policy has proved controversial and will require an amendment to the Animal Welfare Act 1999 and strengthened welfare standards would have to be developed before the trade returns.
Hoggard says he acknowledges there is significant interest in the issue, and wants to give stakeholders and the public a clear timeline for change.
“Live exports will only commence once strengthened welfare standards are developed and in effect to protect New Zealand’s reputation as a responsible exporter and international trade obligations,” he says.
“My officials are preparing a discussion document that will be released publicly before September.”
Public consultation will seek feedback on what changes are necessary to the Animal Welfare Act, how to achieve high animal welfare standards throughout the export process, and how to protect New Zealand’s reputation as a responsible exporter and international trade obligations.
“I understand animal welfare is a top priority for all Kiwis,” Hoggard says. “It’s vital, and in fact non-negotiable, that the new standards are in place before the trade is restarted. Hearing a range of voices will help us to understand how we can best achieve this.”
“After consultation, I intend to seek Cabinet decisions before the end of the year and introduce legislation to the house in early 2025, followed by updated regulatory standards.”
In 2022, the value of livestock exports was estimated to be over $300 million.
“This is not insignificant. I believe there is an opportunity to expand our live export potential and support the growth of our primary industries, and rural communities,” says Hoggard.
“I encourage people to make submissions to make sure all views are taken into account during the policy development process.”
The Good Carbon Farm has partnered with Tolaga Bay Heritage Charitable Trust to deliver its first project in Tairāwhiti Gisborne.
Education union NZEI Te Riu Roa says that while educators will support the Government’s investment in learning support, they’re likely to be disappointed that it has been paid for by defunding expert teachers.
The Government says it is sharpening its focus and support for the food and fibre industry in Budget 2025.
A European Union regulation ensuring that the products its citizens consume do not contribute to deforestation or forest degradation worldwide threatens $200m of New Zealand beef and leather exports.
A long-acting, controlled- release capsule designed to protect ewes from internal parasites during the lambing period is back on the market following a comprehensive reassessment.
Healthcare appears to be the big winner in this year's budget as agriculture and environment miss out.
OPINION: Imagine if the Hound had called the Minister of Finance the 'c-word' and accused her of "girl math".
OPINION: It's good news that Finance Minister Nicola Willis has slashed $1.1 billion from new spending, citing "a seismic global…