17 November 2005

Qualified Support For RMA Changes

New Zealand First supports Federated Farmers’ call for changes to the Resource Management Act, but warns not to “throw the baby out with the bathwater”.

“It has long been a concern that some local authorities expect private farmers to achieve public good outcomes at their own cost”, said Agriculture spokesperson Doug Woolerton.

“This is grossly unfair and needs to be corrected, however any changes to the RMA must be confined to the critical issues surrounding impositions from local and central government. Wholesale changes to the RMA are unnecessary.

“If the government wants more production to pay for imports, let them lead the way and show farmers they are appreciated by cutting red tape and reducing bureaucratic costs.

“The RMA is supposed to be about striking a balance between progress and protection. It’s time the Government considered those who are currently bearing the costs involved in that,” said Mr Woolerton.

ENDS

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