MEDIA RELEASE

4 August 2013

The Farmers’ Manifesto launched for the 2013 elections

With candidates lodging nomination forms for the 2013 Local Elections, Federated Farmers has released ‘The Farmers’ Manifesto,’ outlining its local government priorities.  The Manifesto has also been presented to David Shearer, Leader of the Opposition.

“The Farmers’ Manifesto is for candidates standing in this year’s local elections.  It is also there for voters to use as a yard-stick from which to judge candidate platforms,” says Bruce Wills, Federated Farmers President.

“Local government needs not just good people, but great people.  If you are thinking about standing then you need to remember that completed nomination forms must be in the hands of your local Electoral Officer by 12 noon, on Friday 16 August.

“There isn’t a huge amount of time so anyone thinking about standing needs to rattle their dags. That 16 August closing date is less than a fortnight away. 

“Some councils are also running seminars for prospective candidates.  This is very positive and hopefully will help prospective candidates to understand what local government is and does.

“In rural areas, we’d encourage candidates to speak with our provincial presidents as well.  This is to get a handle on what is important for farmers locally and regionally.  It is where ‘The Farmers’ Manifesto’ really comes in handy.

“For Federated Farmers, the funding and management of rating systems are key concerns for agriculture.  Farmers are looking for local authority representatives focused on running core council activities efficiently and effectively. 

“Not to mention funding those activities in a fair and equitable way.

“Land and improvements are key ingredients for successful businesses. Yet it is the value of these, which local authorities principally tax to fund public services, not to mention regulation, promotional and social activities for the whole community.

“Farming is also hugely impacted by local government’s regulation of natural resources - land, water and air - all of which are critical to the nation’s food production and economy.

“We would wager many non-farmers will be looking to councils and candidates for a practical and common-sense approach to regulation. Realism is balancing economic impacts with other objectives.

“Councils also provide infrastructure vital to successful primary production, particularly roading.  This extends right into our biggest cities too.

“The farming emphasis for candidates might be summed up as “fit for purpose, at a fair price”.

“We are acutely aware that debate is heating up in some regions about council amalgamations.

“Whether re-drawing boundaries can deliver better results is a moot point.  It is something candidates both pushing and opposed to amalgamations need to be quizzed about.

“The Primary Industries need level-headed councillors who will prioritise needs over the ‘nice to haves.’  The Farmers’ Manifesto for these local elections is our prescription for better local government and that goes well beyond the farm gate,” Mr Wills concluded.

§  To read Federated Farmers ‘The Farmers Manifesto,’ simply click right here.

ENDS

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