We are working closely with Environment Minister Nick Smith, and officials, on proposed RMA changes. However, at this stage, it's not entirely clear what specific changes are likely to be made and what this may mean for farmers.
Our focus on science and innovation will continue this year. We need to ensure New Zealand continues to invest in primary sector research to ensure we develop new products and services.
We are fundamentally a "biological" economy, so we must also protect our biosecurity.
The reality is that many of our competitors are also investing more into primary sector R&D, to meet the challenges and opportunities of needing to feed an ever-expanding global population.
Professor Andy West (page 6) discusses this in greater detail, and his argument is compelling, as there is also undoubtedly a correlation between economic and social performance.
As you will be aware, new on-farm health and safety legalisation is looming this year. This is an issue often discussed in The National Farming Review.
One serious injury or death is one too many, but as you will read, we will continue to advocate to ensure new laws and regulations are based on robust evidence, focus on the big issues, are relevant, practical and suitably aligned to the daily practicalities of farming.
Finally, Federated Farmers continues to focus on its strategic refresh. The project team has conducted a series of workshops within the organisation and is now talking to a range of external stakeholders.
This will ensure we develop a robust, relevant strategy, focused on ensuring that we continue to make a difference for our members and stakeholders into the future.
