Methane emission target reset
OPINION: For close to eight years now, I have found myself talking about methane quite a lot.
Incoming Minister for Food Safety and Biosecurity Andrew Hoggard says he’s “really excited” to get those roles.
“Food safety and biosecurity are really important roles for a nation economically dependent on exporting safe and nutritious food,” he told Rural News.
Hoggard is also the Associate Minister for Agriculture overseeing animal welfare and skills. His roles are outside of Cabinet.
“The associate environment role will probably be where a lot of energy has to go in first up, as we deal with issues around the freshwater regulations,” he says.
Hoggard’s rise in national politics has been meteoric. Just six months ago, he was president of Federated Farmers and fighting on behalf of farmers against an avalanche of regulations lobbed by the previous Labour Government.
Hoggard resigned from Federated two months before his term was due to expire, after media reports linked him to an ACT Party ticket. The party confirmed his candidacy shortly after.
The Manawatu dairy farmer was ranked fifth on ACT’s list, ahead of sitting MPs.
In a significant shift for employers, wage theft is no longer only a civil matter but now also a criminal one.
In partnership with Growing Future Farmers (GFF), Fonterra says it is increasing support for young people entering the dairy industry with a new two-year programme.
OPINION: The Government needs to act now to address consenting issues faced by farmers throughout the country.
NZ First leader Winston Peters has continued his criticism of Fonterra to sell its brand business to the French company Lactalis, saying the move is "utter madness".
When it comes to international trade, politicians from all sides of the aisle are united, says Labour's trade spokesman Damien O'Connor.
New Zealand Young Farmers (NZYF) has launched a new initiative designed to make it easier for employers to support their young team members by covering their NZYF membership.