Commitment to primary sector research welcome

Media Release

28 May 2009

Meat & Wool New Zealand welcomes commitment to primary sector research

Meat & Wool New Zealand has welcomed the Government’s commitment to supporting the pastoral sector with funding for a range of Research and Development and innovation projects.

Meat & Wool New Zealand Chairman, Mike Petersen said that the level of investment made available highlighted the Government’s recognition of the sector’s considerable earning potential.

“The budget has signalled that New Zealand is in for a challenging few years with the financial crisis that has dominated the world economies. However New Zealand is well placed for an earlier recovery than other countries with the sheep and beef sector leading the way.

“It’s pleasing to see the Government growing its support to the primary sector which makes up 64 per cent of exports and generates $24.5 billion for the New Zealand economy.”

Mr Petersen said sheep and beef farmers operated in a competitive global environment and they were very aware of the need to be innovative and ready to grow new export opportunities.

“We’re keen to see industry engage with the relevant Government agencies to ensure that we identify the research projects that are going to deliver the most for our investment and give us an edge in a competitive global marketplace.

“Given the difficult economic conditions, I’m particularly pleased to see the Government stand by a realistic funding commitment in this area and retaining the strong industry linkage to ensure the projects with real commercial potential are identified, supported and rapidly taken up for the benefit of the industry,” Mr Petersen said.

ENDS

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