NATHAN GUY MP for Otaki

Animal Welfare Amendment Bill introduced

nospam@example.com (admin) — Wed, 08 May 2013 15:46:57 +1200

Minister for Primary Industries Nathan Guy has introduced a Bill to Parliament today to update and strengthen animal welfare in New Zealand.

“The Bill will allow us to create enforceable regulations that set out how farm and domestic animals should be treated. It also gives wider powers to deal with people who breach welfare laws,” says Mr Guy.

“This comes from a comprehensive review of the Animal Welfare Act 1999 which found that while the principles are sound, the time is right to update and improve how it operates. This will make the legislation easier to enforce, and make it clearer and more transparent.

“It matters how we treat animals, both to ourselves and for our international trading reputation. This Bill will make that reputation even stronger.

“This is important to New Zealanders because around 68% of households have a pet, and we earn around $20 billion a year by exporting animal products such as meat, milk and wool.

“The new regulations will be developed to support our 15 codes of welfare, and future codes, which cover a wide variety of animals.

“The codes that are currently developed by the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC) will be strengthened by these new regulations.

“The Bill also includes new direct protections for New Zealand’s wild animals, animals being exported to other countries, and those being used in research.

“These proposals have been through rigorous consultation and as a result several changes have been incorporated since the discussion document.

“We have one of the best animal welfare systems in the world, but at the same time we are always looking for improvements.

“The vast majority of New Zealanders who take great care of their animals will hardly notice the changes made in this Bill. However there will be greater sanctions for the few who mistreat animals.

“Last week, I released the New Zealand Animal Welfare Strategy, which sets the direction for animal welfare in New Zealand. This Bill is an important step toward that future,” says Mr Guy.

Further information on the Bill is available at http://www.biosecurity.govt.nz/biosec/consult/proposals-for-aw-strategy-and-aw-act.

New Animal Welfare Strategy released

nospam@example.com (admin) — Thu, 02 May 2013 15:45:00 +1200

Minister for Primary Industries Nathan Guy has launched the New Zealand Animal Welfare Strategy today, setting out a high level framework for how we treat animals.

“The strategy Animal Welfare Matters sets out a formal foundation for New Zealand’s animal welfare legislation and policy,” says Mr Guy.

“It says that it matters how animals are treated, and that we have responsibilities toward animals. It also says that using animals for activities like farming and racing is acceptable as long as it is humane.”

The strategy lists four main routes to improved animal welfare:

• Better planning to prevent animal welfare problems;
• Better animal husbandry, science and technology;
• Clear expectations and sanctions, with help for people to comply; and
• Measuring animal welfare performance.

“Animals matter to us personally. Sixty-eight percent of New Zealand households have at least one pet.

“New Zealand also earns around $20 billion a year by exporting animal products, such as meat, milk and wool. Part of why we are so successful internationally is our world-leading reputation for animal welfare. It is vital that we recognise and protect that.

“New Zealand has a proud history of caring for animals and being a world leader in this area, but we are always looking to do better.

“This document will be followed up with new legislation to be introduced shortly updating the Animal Welfare Act,” says Mr Guy.

The Strategy follows up on public consultation held last year when over 2000 public submissions were received.

The New Zealand Animal Welfare Strategy is available at http://www.mpi.govt.nz/biosecurity-animal-welfare/animal-welfare/new-zealand-animal-welfare-strategy

New report shows economic potential for Kapiti and Horowhenua regions

nospam@example.com (admin) — Wed, 01 May 2013 15:50:00 +1200

Otaki MP Nathan Guy has welcomed a new report on the Wellington and Manawatu-Wanganui regional economies which highlights the major investment pouring into local infrastructure.

“The Regional Economic Activity Report pulls together for the first time in one place the available economic data on all New Zealand regions. It also provides a breakdown of some of the specific initiatives the Government has underway under as part of the Business Growth Agenda.

“The report notes the Wellington Airport to Levin Road of National Significance, which will have a major impact on our region. The construction of this road will create thousands of jobs and once complete will be a major boost to regional growth.

“It will mean better access to markets for producers, and encourage more people to live, work and play in both Kapiti and Horowhenua.

“The report also notes the importance of Wellington commuter rail upgrade, which includes new Matangi trains and extended services to Waikanae

“Ultrafast and rural broadband will connect our regions with the world and open up new business and employment opportunities.

“Roughly half of Kapiti’s working population commutes to Wellington for their day jobs, choosing to live here because of the lifestyle. That's why a growing Wellington economy is so important to our region.

“The report also notes the challenge we have in maximising our tourism earnings, making the most of our proximity to Wellington and great local attractions like Kapiti Island. Palmerston North and Kapiti Airports now offer important transport connections for domestic tourists.

“The Manawatu-Wanganui region report highlights the importance of primary industries to the area. The Horowhenua economy is underpinned by agriculture and horticulture production and the challenge now is around environmental sustainability and innovation. Every one percent productivity gain across New Zealand's primary industries will generate an extra $4 billion a year in exports.

“The Wellington region has an average household income of $88,900 a year compared to $66,000 in Manawatu-Wanganui.

“The report will be of interest to local councils and to everyone who attended the recent Electra Kapiti-Horowhenua business forum.

“The next 10 years will be an exciting time for our region and it’s now up to local businesses to make the most of these new opportunities,” says Mr Guy.

A full copy of the report is available at http://www.mbie.govt.nz/what-we-do/business-growth-agenda/regions with the Wellington and Manawatu-Wanganui regions featured on pages 30 to 34.

New plan to protect seabirds launched

nospam@example.com (admin) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 15:53:00 +1200

Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy has launched the National Plan of Action for Seabirds 2013 today, setting out a firm commitment to protect seabirds from fishing incidents.

“The plan shows there is real determination to improve how we protect our unique seabirds. The Ministry for Primary Industries, the Department of Conservation, the fishing industry, tangata whenua and environmental groups have all worked together on this important strategy.

“Seabirds are considered one of the world’s most threatened bird groupings, and the key threat to seabirds is incidental capture and mortality through fishing operations.

“New Zealand is an important breeding ground for around eighty seabird species including albatross, petrel, penguin and shag species.

“The plan defines objectives for the next five years to prevent, monitor and manage seabird interactions with the fishing industry. It includes plans to:

• Reduce capture rates through continuous improvement in all New Zealand fisheries;
• Ensure effective prevention methods are applied in all New Zealand fisheries and by New Zealand vessels on the high seas;
• Helping develop new mitigation measures;
• Develop new research, observation and monitoring techniques;
• Cooperating with other countries whose vessels interact with seabirds, particularly those that breed in New Zealand.

“This is a high-level framework to help us gain a better understanding of the problem, and deal with it. It will be implemented in the annual operational plans of the Ministry for Primary Industries, and progress will be regularly reviewed and reported on,” says Mr Guy.

Interest groups will be involved in the roll-out of the plan through a special advisory group.

“The government is serious about protecting the rich abundance of seabird species found in our waters.”

The NPOA Seabirds 2013 can be found at http://www.fish.govt.nz/en-nz/Environmental/Seabirds/default.htm

More background information is available at: http://www.fish.govt.nz/en-nz/Environmental/Seabirds/FAQ.htm

New Zealand - China agricultural agreement signed

nospam@example.com (admin) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 15:52:00 +1200

Minister for Primary Industries Nathan Guy has signed a Strategic Plan on Promoting Agricultural Cooperation between New Zealand and China today.

The plan was signed with his counterpart, the Chinese Minister of Agriculture Mr Hang Changfu.

“This is an important agreement which will encourage cooperation and the sharing of knowledge to benefit both countries,” says Mr Guy.

The Plan sets out areas in which both countries can learn from each other, such as animal welfare and science, increasing productivity, and building skills and knowledge.

“This document will further build on the strong relationship that our two countries share, particularly in the agricultural sector.

“Since the signing of the Free Trade Agreement in 2008 our exports to China have nearly tripled, from $2 billion a year to $6.9 billion in 2012.

“Two-way trade between China and New Zealand has reached almost $15 billion. Our aim is to double bilateral trade to $20 billion by 2015 and we’re on track to achieve that goal.

“The Strategic Plan will open wider the channels for cooperation, including between our industry organisations and companies.

“There are already a number of business ventures between China and New Zealand in the primary sectors, with Fonterra looking to expand its milking operations in China.

“China is also keen to learn from New Zealand given our strong reputation for food safety and quality food products,” says Mr Guy.

This is believed to be the first visit to New Zealand by a Chinese Minister of Agriculture for over 30 years, and will be reciprocated later this year with a visit to China by Mr Guy.

Minister Han Changfu’s visit to New Zealand follows the successful visit by Prime Minister John Key to China earlier this month.

The agreement runs from 2013 – 2017 and can be updated at any time.

Drought status likely to remain until September

nospam@example.com (admin) — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 13:05:06 +1200

Recent rainfall has been welcomed by farmers but the problems created by the dry summer will be felt for some time, says Minister for Primary Industries Nathan Guy.

“The dry conditions may have ended in many parts of the country but there are still major challenges ahead. It will take time to build up enough grass cover to provide feed for winter.

“There’s no doubt the rain over the last week has been a real boost, especially for those in areas that have missed out before like the central North Island.

“However it’s very important that farmers plan ahead for how they will manage their feed supply through the rest of the year. A large amount of supplementary feed has already been used over summer and will be in short supply later this year.

“The impact of the drought makes the work of Rural Support Trusts very important in providing support and advice.

“For these reasons, it is unlikely I will be formally lifting the official drought status before it expires at the end of September. The rain may be falling but the effects on rural communities will be felt for some time,” says Mr Guy.

Regularly updated drought information is available at:
http://www.mpi.govt.nz/environment-natural-resources/funding-programmes/primary-sector-recovery/droughts/dry-conditions-2012-13-faqs

Funding to help sustainable aquaculture projects

nospam@example.com (admin) — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 16:45:00 +1200

Five important projects focusing on aquaculture will benefit from the latest round of Sustainable Farming Fund grants, Minister for Primary Industries Nathan Guy has announced today.

“New Zealand seafood is a premium product and it’s great to see groups looking to improve their production and value by developing aquaculture,” says Mr Guy.

The projects with funding are:

• Koura Aquaculture, by Wai-Koura South: $119,420
• Farming Premium Salmon, by the Salmon Improvement Group: $600,000
• Management of the GLM9 Greenlipped Mussel Spat Resource, by GML9 Advisory Group: $20,000
• Tuna (Shortfin-eel) Aquaculture, by Te Ohu Tiaki o Rangitane Te Ika a Mauri Trust (MIO): $600,000
• Aquaculture custom bacterial vaccines, by Aquaculture New Zealand: $115,686.

“Addressing information gaps is a focus for four of these projects. They will investigate how to reduce skeletal deformities in farmed salmon, develop best-practice guides for raising freshwater crayfish and manage the wild greenlipped mussel spat resource.

“Importantly, the eel project will focus on learning more about young glass short-fin eels so we can raise them successfully and sustainably.

“The other will focus on developing New Zealand’s capability, in this case to manufacture vaccines for Chinook salmon.”

The projects will commence 1 July 2013 and run for one to three years.

$8.8m in funding for sustainable farming projects

nospam@example.com (admin) — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 16:44:00 +1200

A total of $8.8 million has been awarded to 42 projects around the country after the latest round of the Sustainable Farming Fund, Minister for Primary Industries Nathan Guy has announced today.

“These projects are driven from the grassroots and will help to improve economic and environmental performance. This co-funding will make a real difference to rural communities.

“Some of these projects include improving nutrient management, promoting pasture persistence, biological controls for pests, developing aquaculture, improving deer farm environmental management, and planning for collaborative water management.

“This includes 14 projects that have received funding from a special round that was run for Maori agribusiness late last year. Māori freehold land has enormous potential and some of these projects will help to realise the $8 billion in potential gains, as highlighted in a recent report by KPMG.

“Each project involves local groups and businesses who co-fund the work as well as running the project and bringing in the required expertise. Experience has shown this approach works and provides good value.

The projects approved in the main funding round will commence 1 July 2013 and run for one to three years. Most of the Maori agribusiness projects have already started, with the remaining three to commence on 1 July 2013.

A full list of successful projects is available here: http://www.mpi.govt.nz/environment-natural-resources/funding-programmes/sustainable-farming-fund

About the Sustainable Farming Fund

The Fund was set up in 2000 to fund projects that contribute to the economic, environmental and social wellbeing of New Zealand’s primary industries. To date the SFF has supported nearly 900 projects involving all sectors and interests. Aquaculture was added to the SFF’s scope in 2012.

SFF funding is matched by cash and in-kind contributions from industry, community groups and individuals.

Scheme keeps veterinarians in rural New Zealand

nospam@example.com (admin) — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 16:43:00 +1200

Minister for Primary Industries Nathan Guy has welcomed 30 new vets onto the 2013 intake of the Rural Veterinary Bonding Scheme.

“The scheme is now in its fifth year and is making real headway in tackling the rural vet shortage,” says Mr Guy.

“Since the start of the scheme in February 2009, 136 new vets have joined and the retention rate is an outstanding 96%.

“The scheme is a solid incentive, helping to make rural practices more attractive to junior vets who might otherwise end up in city clinics or heading overseas.

“Livestock farming is the engine room of New Zealand’s economy. We export around $30 billion in primary sector exports a year and we want to double that by 2025. That’s not going to happen without practically skilled, dedicated rural vets who provide animal health advice.

“These vets are now practicing in rural areas, and being supported and mentored by senior vets in their practices.”

The scheme is open to newly qualified veterinarians from Massey University who have secured jobs in rural practices working with farm animals.

At the end of their third year of employment they are entitled to a $33,000 payment, and additional payments of $11,000 at the end of their fourth and fifth years.

Guy welcomes Transmission Gully shortlisting

nospam@example.com (admin) — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 12:04:00 +1200

Otaki MP Nathan Guy has welcomed NZTA’s announcement that they have shortlisted two consortiums to build Transmission Gully.

“This is yet another milestone and a step forward in this hugely important project for our region.

“Using a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) means that Transmission Gully can be built quicker and at less cost to the taxpayer, with construction likely to begin next year and the road due to open around 2020.

“We’ve been waiting for decades for this road to be built and I’m proud to be part of a Government that is finally delivering.

“Transmission Gully will link up with the Kapiti expressway to provide a much quicker, safer route in and out of Wellington.

“The Labour Party is opposing this project which proves how out of touch they have become. They obviously don't travel this route as often as I do, otherwise they would know there are massive congestion issues.

“Transmission Gully has huge local support and a strong mandate, but Labour is continuing to ignore the wishes of Kapiti residents. Any change of Government would see this long awaited project sent back to the scrap heap,” says Mr Guy.

$10,000 in funding for Kapiti’s Youth Quest

nospam@example.com (admin) — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 12:03:00 +1200

Otaki MP Nathan Guy has welcomed $10,000 in new Government funding for Paraparaumu-based charity Youth Quest.

“Youth Quest are great local charity who do a great job providing workshops and mentoring programmes for young people and their families.

“They are one of six organisations throughout New Zealand that have received extra funding from the Ministry of Youth Development.

“This is recognition of the great work Youth Quest have been doing, turning young lives around,” says Mr Guy.

The extra funding comes from the Ministry of Youth Development’s Services for Young People fund.

Further information is available at: http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/youth-organisations-given-funding

Kapiti expressway gets green light

nospam@example.com (admin) — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 12:02:00 +1200

Otaki MP Nathan Guy says he is thrilled that the Kapiti expressway has been given final approval by the Board of Inquiry today.

“This is the final hurdle for this major project, and it means that work can now begin in the middle of the year.

“Our region needs this new road. It will mean quicker and safer journeys, and a real boost to economic growth.

“There will be good local connections with interchanges on Kapiti Road near the Airport and Te Moana Road.

“Because it is on a new route, it means that construction won’t cause major delays or disruption. State Highway One will become a local road for local use.

“The Board of Inquiry has run a very open, fair transparent process with everyone having their say.

“It’s great that this project has been fully considered within nine months. Under previous Governments these kind of projects often took years.

“I’m looking forward to the first sod-turning happening within months.

“The expressway has strong local support and now we can get on with the job,” says Mr Guy.

New appointment to New Zealand Meat Board

nospam@example.com (admin) — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 12:02:00 +1200

Minister for Primary Industries Nathan Guy has today announced the appointment of international trade specialist George Rutherford to the New Zealand Meat Board.

The 10-member Meat Board is a statutory body which works to get the best possible ongoing returns from New Zealand’s quota markets.

“Mr Rutherford has dedicated most of his 37-year career to furthering New Zealand’s agricultural trade interests. He has served extensively with the Ministry for Primary Industries and its predecessors.

“Mr Rutherford is a former lead negotiator for New Zealand at the World Trade Organisation, and has played a significant role in trade negotiations with China and the Asia Pacific Region. He has particular expertise on European Union issues, and in the resolution of trade disputes.

“I’d also like to acknowledge the significant contribution of outgoing board member Alan Kerr who has served on the board since 2010.

“The Meat Board manages New Zealand’s interests in a hugely important part of the economy. Meat exports bring in almost $5.3 billion a year,” says Mr Guy.

Mr Rutherford is one of two members appointed by the Minister for Primary Industries. More information is available at http://www.nzmeatboard.org/main.cfm

Nominations sought for Racing Board Chair

nospam@example.com (admin) — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 18:25:00 +1300

Minister for Racing Nathan Guy is calling for nominations for independent Chair of the New Zealand Racing Board.

“This is an important position as the head of the governing body for racing in New Zealand,” says Mr Guy.

“The New Zealand Racing Board is responsible for the promotion, organisation and development of the racing industry, and also provides racing and sports betting services through the TAB.

“Nominees need to have expertise in business, marketing or economics as well as strong governance skills.”

Mr Guy has written to all three racing codes this week seeking nominations.

The appointment is expected to commence from 1 August 2013. Nomination forms and further details about the Board’s membership, powers and functions is available at www.dia.govt.nz

Drought shows need for irrigation projects

nospam@example.com (admin) — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 18:24:00 +1300

The drought affecting much of New Zealand emphasises the need for irrigation projects to store and distribute water, says Minister for Primary Industries Nathan Guy.

After speaking to drought-affected farmers on the West Coast and the Central North Island this week, Mr Guy said water drives New Zealand’s economy just as much as minerals in Australia.

“We don’t have a shortage of water or rainfall in this country, we just don’t have the capacity to store and use that water in dry times. We currently use for irrigation less than two percent of the water that lands on New Zealand.

“Done properly, storage and irrigation schemes can help to better allocate water to benefit both the economy and environment.

“If current proposals are advanced there could be another 420,000 hectares of irrigated land available over time. Research from NZIER suggests exports could be boosted by $4 billion a year by 2026, which would support thousands of new jobs.

“This is why the Government is investing $80 million this year into a new Crown company to act as a bridging investor for irrigation projects. This will involve short term, minority investments to help kick-start regional projects.

“In total, the Government has signalled plans to invest up to $400 million in regional-scale schemes to encourage third-party capital investment. The Government is also supporting development of suitable projects to the prospectus-ready stage through the Irrigation Acceleration Fund.

“Projects will only succeed if they are committed to good industry practice that promotes efficient water use and environmental management, particularly around land-use intensification. Irrigation projects could potentially improve the flow of some rivers in dry summer months.

“After the summer we’ve had, no one can dispute the importance of storing and managing our water better. The impact of drought has been felt right across New Zealand but irrigation projects could make a real difference in the future,” says Mr Guy.