NZ: Lincoln supports call for more investment in land-based industries

Lincoln University supports in principle the announcement made by Federated Farmers calling for increased investment in science research and innovation, especially for the primary sector.

Irrespective of whoever forms the next Government, the Federation has asked for an additional $600 million to be invested over the next three years. The announcement was made by the President of Federated Farmers, Dr William Rolleston, during the launch of their 2014 General Election Manifesto at Lincoln University.

In a press release posted on their website yesterday, the Federation stressed the importance of the primary sector to the New Zealand economy, noting that the primary industries contribute 73% of the country's merchandise exports, with pastoral agriculture alone making up 45%.

They also emphasised New Zealand's place as a world leader in food production, and stated the Federation's vision to unlock the primary sector's true potential so as to position New Zealand as the global leader in farming systems.

According to Lincoln University Acting Vice-Chancellor, Sheelagh Matear, the announcement by Federated Farmers reflects the importance of ensuring that the primary sector, and the land-based industries in general - including such fields as tourism, IT, environmental management, ecology, and landscape design - are adequately supported, and always with an eye toward ensuring growth and constant innovation.

Source: Lincoln University

Publication date: Thu 11 Sep 2014