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.
Agriculture Minister Damien O'Connor has weighed in on the bizarre decision by the Ministry of Education (MOE) to carpet small and remote rural schools in synthetic carpet.
O'Connor told Rural News that he's deeply disappointed that the MOE couldn't see its way through to incorporate more sustainable products into the education system. He says the MOE has been advocating for sustainability through the curriculum and it is essential that they incorporate that into their procurement practices.
O'Connor says while he's not familiar with that department's procurement process it is important that departments make their decisions free from any political interference.
"But I will be asking for details of that. There are often issues around the cost when it comes to wool carpet verses the alternatives," he says. "But the quantum of the contract would surely have allowed for some economic cost efficiencies for wool as happens with the synthetic alternatives."
O'Connor adds that while obviously the goal must be seen to get the best value for taxpayers' dollars, the country is on a journey to sustainabilit and believes that means investing more money for a better long term outcome and wool carpets come into this equation.
The country’s 4200 commercial fruit and vegetable growers will vote from May 14 on a new HortNZ levy.
Meat processor Alliance Group is asking farmer shareholders to inject more capital in order to remain a 100% co-operative.
A vet is calling for all animals to be vaccinated against a new strain of leptospirosis (lepto) discovered on New Zealand dairy farms in recent years.
Dairy
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.
OPINION: The new government has clearly signalled big cuts across the public service.
OPINION: Your canine crusader is not surprised by the recent news that New Zealand plant-based ‘fake meat’ business is in…