New Zealand Hemp Industries Association Incorporated Press Release. Wednesday, July 26, 2000

At a meeting in the Minister of Customs office on Tuesday, July 25, 2000 members of executive were informed that the Working Party NZHIAI had been asking government to form with full industry participation was to meet for the first time on 21st August 2000, invitations to participate were in the post, with the intent of discussing and resolving outstanding issues regarding Industrial Hemp trials this year if possible. It was clear to the executive members that significant progress on the issue had been made. The Minister the Hon Phillida Bunkle clearly signaled the possibility of trials in October 2000 provided outstanding issues were resolved with industry participation. It was further indicated that the announcement was to be made on “Morning Report” Radio New Zealand, with interviews with both the Minister of Customs and The Minister of Health The Hon Annette King.

Mac McIntosh, Chair of the NZ Hemp Industries Assn and present at the meeting said:

“Obviously after such a long and frustrating wait under the previous administration we are not only really pleased that progress is being made; but also that Industry was to be involved.” Further Mac McIntosh recognized that “Not only has the Minister of Customs read our documentation, but effort has been made to be of assistance leading to renewed energy and excitement at the prospects amongst members.” He also recognized the assistance of the Minister of Health and the prolonged commitment to advancing the issue by Green Party Co- Leader Rod Donald. McIntosh also praised the Coalition Government for “keeping its word.” And note the Minister of customs assistance. He “Thanked her with gratitude for her efforts on behalf of Industry.”

When asked if it were possible to implement trials this season given the short time frame involved McIntosh responded “I’ am hopeful there will be no impediments and confident with reason, logic and good will applied, outstanding issues could be resolved. Therefore I’m also confident that trials could take place in the time frame the Minister indicated. Its obvious that industry will have to work hard with officials to achieve this.”

For Further info Ph/Fax +64 (0)4 9384879 Cell: 025 591479

email: nzhemp@es.co.nz

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