2 November 2009

Trade Minister to address Meat & Fibre farmers on Wednesday

Minister of Trade, the Hon Tim Groser, is set to address Federated Farmers Meat & Fibre council meeting in Methven on Wednesday, 4 November.

Minister Groser will speak at the Methven Resort, where he will examine the implications for farmers of the international situation around climate change. He also plans to outline his thoughts on the long-term challenges facing New Zealand's farmers in the global market place.

“This is a great opportunity for the farming community to find out about this hugely important issue,” says Bruce Wills, Federated Farmers Meat & Fibre chairperson.

“Minister Groser brings a wealth of international experience to the debate around climate change and trade and the implications and opportunities for farming businesses. The decisions made in these areas over the next few years will play a key role in the future profitability of farming.

“Not only will Minister Groser deliver a significant speech about the implications of climate change on agricultural trade developments, but he will also take questions from the floor.

“We certainly anticipate a frank and open discussion as the confluence of climate change and trade present some huge challenges for all farmers.

“Sustainable farming businesses are the backbone of New Zealand’s economy. We need international frameworks for climate change and trade that will back us to perform competitively on the world stage and not break the back of farming,“ Mr Wills concluded.

Minister Groser will speak from 1.15pm to 1.45pm, with a question and answer session from 1.45pm to 2.15pm.