29 May 2009
Media release
Rural New Zealand abandoned in the Budget
Rural New Zealanders have been abandoned by the National/Act Party’s Budget, said Labour Rural Affairs Spokesperson Hon
Damien O’Connor.
“Cuts to Adverse Climate Events management will reduce the ability of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries to help
rural communities in times of crisis.
“The Sustainable Farming Fund has been cut by $1.4m at a time when innovation and sustainable practices are essential to
the rural industries,” said Damien O’Connor.
“The Walking Access Commission has had $500,000 cut from its limited budget which will severely restrict their ability
to work with landowners to develop a code of practice and identify agreed walkways throughout New Zealand.
“This party once claimed to be proud of its rural connections, but this Budget is an insult to hard working, committed
rural communities.”
ENDS