Hon David Carter MP National Party Agriculture Spokesman

14 March 2006

Mahuta, Anderton at odds over microchipping

Microchipping of farm working dogs will proceed on 1 July if Associate Local Government Minister Nanaia Mahuta is to be believed, says National Agriculture spokesman David Carter.

In the House today, Nanaia Mahuta, who is responsible for dog microchipping, dismissed any suggestions of an exemption for farm working dogs.

"This is in contrast to rumours circulating in rural New Zealand that Agriculture Minister Jim Anderton is working closely with farming organisations to find a face saving solution to the ridiculous legislation," says Mr Carter.

"Nanaia Mahuta was typically dismissive of farmers concerns to this law by claiming in the House the cost will be 'miniscule'.

"Farmers already face declining incomes, and yet are saddled with huge Government-imposed costs, for little or no purpose.

"In an extreme act of arrogance, Acting Prime Minister Michael Cullen attempted in the House to dismiss genuine farmer concerns by having Nanaia Mahuta confirm the Government will not be microchipping farmers.

"That's how much farmers are valued by this Labour Government."

ENDS

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