Welcome to the New Year
Happy New Year – I hope everyone had a good break and a chance to relax over the holidays.
The political year has burst into life, and I’m very proud to have been appointed the new Minister of Primary Industries. I officially take over the portfolio on Thursday, filling the big shoes of David Carter who is set to become Parliament’s Speaker.
I come from a farming family and agriculture is in my blood. Primary industries include farming, forestry, fisheries and horticulture, and I know how important they are to New Zealand and our region.
In total, the primary sector is worth around $32 billion a year. They are a big driver of the economy, and I’ll be working to meet the Government’s goal of increasing exports to from 30% to 40% of GDP by 2025.
I’m also pleased to be continuing as Racing Minister, which is also an important contributor to New Zealand economy – particularly in provincial areas.
I will be just as busy as the MP for Otaki, with the help of my electorate staff in my Paraparaumu and Levin offices.
This year I’m looking forward to seeing more good progress on the roading front, with the Board of Inquiry into the Kapiti expressway set to release their decision soon. It has been a very open and transparent process so far with numerous people presenting to the Board.
We can also expect to see more progress on the Peka Peka to Otaki stretch of highway, with another Board of Inquiry likely to consider this project as well.
I’m also hopeful of a positive solution for the Capital Connection train service soon.
Ultrafast broadband begins to rollout this year. Levin and Paraparaumu will be connected from July, with some other towns in Kapiti and Horowhenua to follow.
It is shaping up to be another hectic year and I'm raring to go.