Sheepmeat and beef levy referendum under way
Red meat producers are urged to have their say on the continuation of their levy-funded organisation by voting in the 2021 sheepmeat and beef levy referendum.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand is urging red meat producers to have their say on the continuation of their levy-funded organisation by voting in the 2021 sheepmeat and beef levy referendum.
B+LNZ Chairman Andrew Morrison says the last time farmers had the opportunity to vote on the future of B+LNZ was in 2015 and a lot has changed since then.
“Given the current operating environment, the need for an organisation to champion the needs of red meat producers has never been greater.
“There’s a lot coming at the sector – including a raft of new environmental legislation and questions about agriculture’s environmental impact, rapidly changing consumer demands, increased protectionism in our export markets, skilled labour shortages, and Covid-19 related market disruption.”
He says B+LNZ has been working collaboratively with other industry groups to fight for sensible policies that work for farmers, particularly on water, biodiversity, climate change and carbon farming.
According to Morrison, the Taste Pure Nature origin brand and the ‘Making Meat Better’ website are proving helpful in positioning B+LNZ’s naturally produced red meat to meet increasing consumer demand for sustainably produced products. Globally, we continue to fight for market access.
“We’re also investing in research to improve the genetics available to our farmers, lower our environmental footprint and tackle diseases. And we’re partnering with others to help farmers attract, develop and retain people with the right skills and experience.”
He says a yes vote will ensure B+LNZ can continue working on farmers’ behalf.
