The Holstein Friesian New Zealand Centennial Conference was opened by the Honourable David Carter, Minister of Agriculture on Monday 21 June 2010. Mr Carter spoke to delegates at an evening function congratulating them on attaining 100 years, “I would like to open, by paying tribute to the famous Canterbury breeder, the late Mr JCN Grigg, who imported the first ‘Dutch-Friesian' cattle into New Zealand. New Zealand's dairy industry has been built on the work of these pioneering breeders. As more breeds were imported, and farmers took steps to keep accurate pedigrees of these animals, the New Zealand Holstein Friesian Association was established in 1910.”
Mr Carter noted the changes that had occurred in the New Zealand Dairy Industry over the last 100 years, “For the past 100 years, genetic research and livestock identification systems have been used to improve milk production and therefore the productivity of the New Zealand dairy industry. It is arguably the most fundamental reason for the New Zealand dairy industry being amongst the most efficient and competitive anywhere in the world. Herd testing will continue to provide important productivity gains in the years ahead.” He congratulated the New Zealand Holstein Friesian Association for its contribution to growing the New Zealand economy over the past 100 years.
Mr Carter spoke of the contribution the dairy industry makes to the economy and of the matters that affect the industry today, in particular of sustainability, water quality and climate change. “The recent MacKenzie Basin debate and the ongoing issue of water quality keep the New Zealand dairy industry firmly in the public eye. Your industry must continue to show its commitment to tackling these issues if it wishes to retain the support of the community. “
“For many farmers, the 2010 season has been one of drought. Remarkably, it has also been a season of flood. As is always the case, farmers have shown remarkable resilience however, climate change projections for the country mean we need to be prepared for more - more droughts, more intense rainfall events, greater unpredictability.” Mr Carter also spoke of the replacement of the Environment Canterbury Councillors, “Despite having 70 percent of New Zealand's irrigated land, Canterbury still does not have an operative water plan. It was a big call for the Government to replace Environment Canterbury councillors with commissioners. But we want to see a step-change in water management in this area.”
Mr Carter also talked about the Emissions Trading Scheme, “I am well aware there is much apprehension amongst farmers about the ETS.” He acknowledged that although there would be an increase in costs for farmers as at 1 July this year, he assured them that the costs would not be as significant as expected, “For the average dairy farm it’s $3,300 per year.” He also mentioned exports and improving market access into key markets. “When it comes to dairy however, this is never easy. We are up against one of the most heavily subsidised and protected sectors in the world. We already have a number of Free Trade Agreements under our belt - notably with China - and we're working on several more. These include Korea and India, as well as the TransPacific Partnership Agreement which includes the USA. This will not be an easy battle and the US dairy farmers are a powerful lobby group and one that Congress would ignore at their peril. We must continue to keep pushing forward and improving access to new markets. This is where our environmental credentials, our biosecurity system and our food safety standards hold us in good stead.”
Mr Carter concluded, “I congratulate the New Zealand Holstein Friesian Association centenary, and for your contribution to growing the New Zealand economy. I wish you all the best in your endeavours and I encourage you to always be looking ahead and taking advantage of the opportunities that will make New Zealand dairying ever more successful.”
The Minister then took questions from the floor that included issues around free trade agreements, the Emissions Trading Scheme and climate change.
The opening function was also attended by Jono Naylor, Mayor of Palmerston North, who also congratulated Holstein Friesian New Zealand on attaining 100 years, “It is significant for any organisation that reaches this milestone.” He welcomed all delegates to Palmerston North and the Manawatu region and thanked the Association for allowing Palmerston North be the host of the event.
Adrian Dee, President of Holstein Australia, and Brian Carter, President of Jersey New Zealand, also congratulated the breeders on 100 years on behalf of their respective organisations.
