Damien O’Connor: NZ united on global trade
When it comes to international trade, politicians from all sides of the aisle are united, says Labour's trade spokesman Damien O'Connor.
OPINION: Under fire Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor has now conceded in a recent media interview that, “The Government hasn’t been stellar at communicating its message to the farming sector”.
The Hound reckons this blindingly obvious admission would have to be the understatement of the decade.
Meanwhile, the jungle drums are also beating that his near 30-year political career may be soon coming to an end – either by design or default.
Although reluctant to confirm he’s pulling stumps on politics, in the same piece when asked whether he’d be keen to stay in government should Labour remain in power after next year’s election, O’Connor said, “That’s in the hands of the Prime Minister.”
Actually, it will be in the hands of West Coast voters who may very well give him the elbow next year and save Jacinda the job.
A verbal stoush has broken out between Federated Farmers and a new group that claims to be fighting against cheaper imports that undermine NZ farmers.
According to the latest ANZ Agri Focus report, energy-intensive and domestically-focused sectors currently bear the brunt of rising fuel, fertiliser and freight costs.
Having gone through a troublesome “divorce” from its association and part ownership of AGCO, Indian manufacturer TAFE is said to be determined to be seen as a modern business rather than just another tractor maker from the developing world.
Two long-standing New Zealand agricultural businesses are coming together to strengthen innovation, local manufacturing capability, and access to essential farm inputs for farmers across the country.
A new farmer-led programme aimed at bringing young people into dairy farming is under way in Waikato and Bay of Plenty.
The Government has announced changes to stock exclusion regulations which it claims will cut unnecessary costs and inflexible rules while maintaining environmental protections.