Brian Connell National Forestry Spokesman

30 October 2003

No olive branch to forestry from this Govt

Jim Sutton's latest attack on the forestry industry, that he purports to represent, is just another cheap shot at an industry that is experiencing hard times, says Brian Connell, MP for Rakaia and National Party Forestry Spokesman.

"Following quickly on the heels of "Dinosaur Jim" Anderton's recent outburst, the forestry industry must be despairing at the Government's lack of understanding about how it operates.

"I find it ironic that people like Jim Sutton who have never been in business have the audacity to tell people who are running our largest and most sophisticated industries that they're getting it wrong.

"Of course the industry wants stability, to retain skilled staff and to diversify their income base. What the industry needs is a Government that will take its foot off the forestry neck and reduce the compliance costs and red tape that are choking it.

"Mr Sutton and Mr Anderton should listen less to their union buddies and start providing some constructive assistance by getting their colleagues to turn the clock back on their anti-business regime.

"In National the forestry industry knows it has a partner that understands their industry and will work with them to help them achieve their ambitions.

"The quicker Mr Sutton announces his retirement the better," Mr Connell said.

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