Proposed RMA Changes Not Enough For Farmers
February 9th, 2009
FedFarmers is not letting up on the Govt to push harder and faster with further changes to the RMA. It sees the announced changes as just a starting point which farmers will not be content with and is also concerned not enough effort has been put into reducing the bureaucratic interference in farm management through the likes of local councils. President, Don Nicolson, says, “…Federated Farmers welcomes the Govt’s announcement and supports many of the changes to speed up the RMA process, but feels the discussion document to the much heralded Resource Management Act (Simplify & Streamline) Amendment Bill, is just an okay first stab.”
Wording crucial to rural support. However, Nicolson says for farmers looking for a quick fix to the Resource Management Act (RMA), there is still quite a way to go. “Some may see today’s announcement as being a little flat.” While many of the changes will be good from a macro infrastructure sense, farmers will want to see how the changes are worded and what impact they will have on the level of regulation farmers face. “FedFarmers expects that the Bill will actually turn the RMA into a rational planning document.”
Individual rights. Nicolson says the Govt must strengthen the rights of individuals to claim compensation when their property rights are lost “in the public good.” This was in the original draft of the RMA some 18 years ago. Some farmers will be dubious about changes which are aimed at streamlining projects of national significance and improving national instruments, without strengthening the rights of individuals to receive compensation.
QUOTABLE: “The Bill’s wording must put an end to farmers being farmed by councils, consultants, planners and lawyers.” – Don Nicolson
Copyright © The Main Report Group - NZ AGri-Business
