Horticultural Leaders Dismayed By Govt Actions

Wednesday, 25 July 2001, 12:46 am
Press Release: Unknown

Horticultural Leaders Dismayed By Government Actions

Horticultural leaders are bitterly disappointed that the Health Minister, Annette King, was unable to launch their national conference in Rotorua today.

The minister was scheduled to give the keynote address to 450 people at the Produce Plus Conference at the Rotorua Convention Centre.

Instead, local MP, Steve Chadwick read the address on behalf of the minister.

Conference manager, Ron Gall, said “While Steve did a great job, this is part of a pattern where for the past two years ministers have failed to show at our conference.”

“We accept that politicians have important responsibilities, but our industry represents $1.7 billion in exports alone, with around a further $5 billion including domestic sales and the flow-on to related industries.

“It is a major employer in many New Zealand regions.

“Horticultural products are increasingly recognised for their contribution to healthier living.

“We wonder if the government fully recognises the economic and social contribution of our industry, the only true health industry in the country,” concluded Mr Gall.

Ends

For further information please contact Ron Gall on 025 466 838

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