MEDIA RELEASE

27 June 2008

A.C.T. SCAREMONGERING

“It is totally irresponsible of Owen Jennings to spread fear and uncertainty among fruit growers halfway through a selling season” said New Zealand First Primary Production spokesman, Doug Woolerton.

“The grower owned company ENZA is successfully selling 18 million trays of fruit into foreign markets, and in so doing helping to alleviate New Zealand’s balance of payments problem. Contrary to Mr Jennings statements, ENZA is in a strong financial position and is not seeking assistance from the Government.

A scattergun approach to marketing by independents will not secure growers’ futures. That requires a globally integrated marketing strategy such as that provided by ENZA to guarantee long term viability for growers,” said Mr Woolerton.

“Anyone can get a good price for a tiny amount of fruit supplied to a couple of supermarkets for a couple of days. Mr Jennings knows this, but is choosing to distort the picture.

“I urge the growers to support their company,” said Mr Woolerton.

ENDS

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