B+LNZ has followed up with the Government on issues relating to limits on carbon forestry and the need for more time on gene technology legislation. We have also organised farmer information events and are undertaking international advocacy.
Carbon forestry
This week we wrote to Ministers noting that while we welcomed the announcement of limits on carbon forestry, in light of subsequent whole sheep and beef farm sales we’re seeking changes to the guidance on what constitutes ‘intent’ to plant an area of trees before 4 December 2024 (when they stated the new rules would apply).
We have requested the removal of seedlings receipts and third party assessments from the guidance as proof of intent. The lack of specificity around these as proof of intent undermines the limits that were announced and they create loopholes that must be closed before too much more damage is done.
For more information see this recent e-diary story on our afforestation advocacy , which now includes a link to this week’s letter.
Gene technology
We have also written to the Chair of Parliament’s Health Committee to reiterate our concerns about the timeframes for the Gene Technology Bill and again ask that they slow down the process to enable proper engagement and ensure we get the settings right.
We restated some of the key issues (including market risks, co-existence and traceability, and the lack of clarity in how different levels of risk will be determined) and requested the Committee asks the Government to undertake targeted engagement with farmers, led by experts in gene technology, to step through the opportunities and risks. We also recommended hearings be held by Parliament’s Primary Production Committee on the Bill so that particular issues relating to farming can be focused on.
For more information see this recent e-diary story on the gene technology legislation, which now includes a link to this week’s letter.
Biosecurity – farmer forum with Hon Andrew Hoggard
This week we organised a farmer forum with Hon Andrew Hoggard, Minister for Biosecurity and Associate Minister for Agriculture and for the Environment, in Ashburton. Over 50 farmers and rural professionals attended this engaging and informative session.
Minister Hoggard talked about some of the big issues in his portfolios, including the importance of maintaining strict border controls and being prepared for a potential outbreak of foot and mouth disease. He also responded to questions across a range of policy areas.
B+LNZ staff provided a brief update on the importance of farmer input into B+LNZ joining the foot and mouth disease Operational Agreement – but also outlined the work B+LNZ is doing on RMA reform, climate change, water, gene technology and trade.
For more information about the foot and mouth disease Operational Agreement and voting, see the page on our website.
International advocacy
B+LNZ Chair Kate Acland is currently in the UK and Europe to strengthen partnerships and advocate on behalf of New Zealand’s sheep and beef farmers.
The visit is a whistle-stop tour across Ireland, Wales, England and Belgium to meet with counterpart organisations, farmers, government officials, and importers. She’ll be talking about trade, but also key issues like climate change and taking a warming approach to methane. Her visit marks the respective anniversaries of the UK and the EU Free Trade Agreements entering into force.
Next week, Kate will travel to Washington DC to build on her February visit to Texas to continue promoting New Zealand interests as a reliable, consistent and trusted trading partner.
We’ll provide more information about her trip in upcoming e-diaries.