ACT has won some big gains for apple growers in the Apple and Pear Industry Restructuring Bill being passed through Parliament today.

ACT Rural Spokesman Owen Jennings said the Bill will now see the deregulation of the on shore costs where there is currently huge waste and inefficiency under ENZA's monopoly.

"The waste is currently up to $10 a carton when growers are only receiving $6-$7 a carton for their fruit this season.

"ACT has fought for the move to FAS (Free Alongside Ship) for acquisition by ENZA to be brought forward to get urgently needed competition. Our preference is for FOBS (Free On Board Ship) to extract the maximum benefit for growers.

"This move represents the first half of deregulation. ACT believes Parliament is missing a vital opportunity in not moving to fully deregulate the industry today. The National Party should have stuck to it's principles and matched its rhetoric on choice with action.

"ACT is the only Party fully committed to choice and competition. We stand behind apple growers and their right to market and sell their own fruit for the best price," said Owen Jennings.

ENDS

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