Joyce admits Invermay case not robust

Steven Joyce has finally admitted the business case underpinning the removal of Invermay is not sound, Labour’s MP for Dunedin North David Clark says.

“In a response to a written question from Labour, Steven Joyce accepts no robust and accepted methodology was used to quantify the economic benefits of relocating Invermay staff in AgResearch’s restructure.

“The significance of this admission should not be underestimated. It is no coincidence Mr Joyce has finally decided to respond just five days out from Christmas, rather than two months ago when the question was lodged.

“The detailed analysis contained in the internal Change Management Team review, the Dunedin City Council submission and the subsequent report by BERL economists must now be given greater weight.

“All three found that while much of AgResearch's restructuring proposal advanced the organisations objectives, the decision to shift Invermay scientists did not.

“Steven Joyce has previously indicated that he is continuing to seek information on the case. I've no doubt he will be receiving feedback from farmers who depend upon Invermay for productivity improvements, as well as from concerned members of the public.

“The newly launched ‘Save Invermay’ website means more and more people are becoming informed of the damage the Government's proposal will do to New Zealand’s agricultural sector.

“Clearly Steven Joyce is watching AgResearch closely. He signed off on the original consultation documents and will be looking closely to ensure AgResearch considers the feedback it has received. His involvement from the beginning means his own reputation is one the line,” David Clark says.

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