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.
The Government has launched a plan aiming to boost primary sector export earnings by $44 billion over the next decade.
The Fit for a Better World plan launched today centres on three themes:
• Productivity: adding an additional $44 billion to export earnings over the next decade through a focus on value, rather than volume.
• Sustainability: improving freshwater and reducing biogenic methane emissions to 10% below 2017 levels by 2010 and 24-47% below by 2050.
• Inclusiveness: employing 10,000 more New Zealanders in the primary sector workforce over the next four years and 10% more New Zealanders in the food and fibre sector by 2030.
“The Fit for a Better World Roadmap spells out practical ways for the sector to fetch more value, create more jobs and bolster our green reputation in a global pandemic environment to ensure New Zealand builds back better, together,” said Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.
Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor said the sector’s ability to record 4.5% growth in the past year, with forecast export growth of $48 billion despite COVID-19, highlighted demand for Kiwi products.
However, O’Connor said the industry can’t continue to rely on volume growth to generate greater returns.
“We need to create new billion-dollar, category-leading products services for consumers here and overseas, while respecting Te Taiao – the natural world.
“Our Fit for a Better World Roadmap builds on the work both primary industries and the Government have already started and brings together actions, investment, and resources that will work in concert to accelerate the transformation we need.”
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.
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…