20 August 2015

Rural Infrastructure needs to be a priority

The government appears to be on the same page as Federated Farmers, with their announcement of their 30 Year Infrastructure Plan today.

Anders Crofoot, Federated Farmers Infrastructure Spokesperson says “Rural infrastructure will need to be a priority in looking at addressing the inefficiencies in infrastructure investment and planning.”

Federated Farmers supports the intent to better understand where the critical demands are and to make better decisions from that knowledge, but remain wary of what that strategy means for rural communities.

“To date rural roading infrastructure has been suffering from a significant funding squeeze and it’s unclear if this plan is going to address that. If it doesn’t, then better planning won’t be enough to offset the opportunity costs we’re likely to face.”

Rural infrastructure, such as water, roads, fibre and broadband are vital to our rural communities and the broader economy.

“It’s vital to keep our rural communities connected especially rural businesses to their customers. Fibre and broadband will be the next generation’s transport, so the government’s continuation of the Rural Broadband Initiative is welcome news.”

Chris Allen, Federated Farmers Water Spokesperson added “For thriving rural communities to meet the New Zealand Government’s aspirations, they have patiently been awaiting new investment in water infrastructure.”

“There’s a real positive in recognising that investing in reliable water supply will maximise the value of water, ensuring social and economic community gain from that resource while protecting the environment.”

“There are many promising elements to this Plan and the rural community is keen to see some long awaited investment come their way.” Mr Crofoot added.

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