Have your say on national’s policies

I trust everyone had an enjoyable long weekend.

There was plenty happening locally and great to see that Horowhenua Ka¯ piti rugby team will be hosting the final against Wairarapa Bush this weekend in Levin. The markets are always popular over

Labour weekend and so is Foxton’s Spring Fling.

Engaging with people is an important role as an MP.

I appreciate hearing people’s views and ideas and if you are involved in the Primary Sector I’m keen to hear from you.

The latest part of the National Party Have Your Say process is our survey for rural communities, with the aim of getting feedback to help us develop policy for our primary sector by 2020.

I’m going to be spearheading this process in my role as National’s Spokesperson for Agriculture and am looking forward to reading through the submissions.

The primary sector contributes $167 million to the Horowhenua Ka¯ piti in GDP and is an important part of our local economy. It also provides 1100 jobs throughout the region. Most of this comes from Horowhenua’s strong livestock and horticulture industry, and Ka¯ piti businesses such as Ka¯ piti Cheeses rely on a strong primary sector for their supply.

This success is underpinned by sustainable business practices that continue to enhance the environment for generations to come.

Most farmers and growers I speak to have concerns around potential Government policies like employment law reforms, climate change and environmental regulations, fuel taxes, the slowdown of overseas investment and a wide-ranging review of the dairy industry.

If you have an opinion on these matters or any suggestions on how to enhance rural communities head to www.national.org.nz/haveyoursay and fill out the survey.

Cheers.