Goats group broadens focus on sector

Originally mohair-focused, Federated Farmers Goats Industry Group (GIG) now includes representatives from the wider sector.

The GIG executive includes representatives from Meat Goat New Zealand and the Dairy Goat Co-operative.

Recent executive discussions have been on progressing the goat industry and formulating a strategy to help deliver a strong and sustainable industry. Two key areas were identified.

A unified approach is important. Historically, differences of opinion between sector stakeholders meant efforts to improve the industry were not always as effective as they might have been.

While industry stakeholders will continue to work for their members' benefit, they will also identify all industry stakeholders and clarify possible roles within a unified sector so industry efforts can be co-ordinated and leveraged to best advantage.

The second initiative is the possible reinstatement of a goat meat levy. The executive agreed this should be investigated, initially by gauging stakeholder support, in principle, for the idea.

For more information on these issues contact John Woodward on 027 233 6581 or at mohair@hotmail.co.nz