Forest lobbying skills getting replanted

The New Zealand Forest Industries Council looks set to close itself down - in favour of a new lobby organisation aiming for wider representation.

Provisionally named Woodco, the so-called "association of associations" is expected to be operational in September.

Rick Christie, independent chairman of the steering committee leading the establishment process, said the new body would aim for industry-wide membership.

"Any segments of the industry not fully covered by an existing association will not be left out," he said.

"In this situation, new organisations will be set up to ensure full input can be achieved."

Christie said most industry organisations had already indicated they would join Woodco.

"A real spirit of co-operation has been evident and this has enabled arrangements to be put in place quickly."

Forest Industries Council chairman Lees Seymour said although the council's membership included several large companies and most associations, a wider coalition was needed to generate momentum on pan-industry issues.

"The forest industry has undergone some major structural changes in recent times," he said.

"This move is about ensuring the industry is organised in a way that allows it to be proactive in addressing key strategic issues affecting its future."

Seymour said these issues included influence over domestic policy, active involvement in international trade negotiations and promotion of the industry and its products.

"The forest and wood-processing industries directly employ 26,000 people and account for just under 4 per cent of GDP. This contribution should grow significantly over coming years," he said.

"But to achieve this growth, we need a more cohesive and cross-industry approach to strategic issues."

During the next three months, the the soon-to-be-wound-up board will help establish Woodco.