In response to the Government’s assault on food production and rural communities with a punitive and counterproductive tax on livestock emissions, Groundswell NZ is holding a nationwide protest at midday on Thursday, 20 October, Groundswell NZ co-founder Bryce McKenzie says.

“The Government’s ideological commitment to punitive and counterproductive emissions taxes on food production is an existential threat to rural communities."

"After years of faux consultation, the Government has given up on all pretence of a fair and workable agricultural emissions policy."

"Instead, we have a tax that, on the Government's own numbers, will result in up to a 20% reduction in production for Sheep & Beef farmers and a 6% reduction for Dairy farmers, while their emissions reductions will be replaced by less efficient foreign farmers due to emissions leakage."

"Looking good at the UN is not a good enough reason to send rural communities to the wall and drive food prices through the roof. That's why we're calling on all New Zealanders to show the Government that We're Not Going To Take It, this Thursday, 20 October, at midday."

"Most New Zealanders oppose reducing livestock numbers to meet emissions targets and now we're going to remind the Government how New Zealand pays its way in the world."

"As in previous protests, we are asking all those participating to respect private property and support local businesses," says Mr McKenzie.

© Scoop Media

Gordon Campbell: On The New Government’s Policies Of Yesteryear

Winston Peters is routinely described as the kingmaker who decides whether the centre right or the centre-left has a turn at running this country. He also plays a less heralded, but equally important role as the scapegoat who can be blamed for killing taxes that his senior partners never much wanted in the first place. Neither Ardern nor Robertson for example, really wanted a capital gains tax, for fear of Labour copping the “tax and spend“ label they ended up being saddled with anyway. Usefully though, they could tell the party faithful it was wicked old Winston who killed the CGT... More

Government: National, ACT, & NZ First To Deliver For All Kiwis

The National Party claims the new coalition government will be stable, effective, and will deliver for all Kiwis. "Despite the challenging economic environment, New Zealanders can look forward to a better future because of the changes the new Government will make ... We know that, with the right leadership, the right policies, and the right direction, together New Zealanders can make this an even better country," says Christopher Luxon... More

ALSO:

• ACT - Real Change Begins Today
• Green Party - A Strong Opposition To Divisive Government
• Te Pati Maori - Luxon’s Government Will Whitewash Aotearoa
• NZ College Of Midwives - College Supports Solution Focussed Approach For New Health Minister
• Federation of Primary Health - Yes Minister – The Federation Is Looking Forward To Working With You