Feds Support Opportunities For All NZ Farmers

01 August 01

Ian Ewen-Street's claims that the release of GM crops will threaten market opportunities for all New Zealand farmers are unconstructive and reflect the Green Party's bias, according to Federated Farmers of New Zealand President Alistair Polson.

Federated Farmers supports the Royal Commission's recommendation to preserve opportunities and encourage the coexistence of all forms of agriculture.

"I am tired of Mr Ewen-Street's consistent efforts to misrepresent Federated Farmer's position. The Federation's submission to the Royal Commission supported farmers right to chose the production system that best meets market demands, provided they meet ERMA safety processes.

"The Federation was represented at the Royal Commission by a team including FFNZ Vice President Tom Lambie, an organic dairy farmer and Peter Corish an Australian successfully growing GE cotton and organic soya on the same property" said Mr Polson.

"It is time for Ian Ewen-Street to focus on building New Zealand's international reputation as an innovative culture with a strong scientific base to its agricultural industry. GM techniques will actually help New Zealand develop sustainable solutions for the future."

"Now the Royal Commission has reported back it is time for all parties to work together for the best outcome for New Zealand."

ENDS

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