|
|
|
Reform would 'devastate' farmers
29 Oct 2003
The NSW Farmers' Association has called on the Federal Government to reject National Competition Council recommendations to remove policies protecting farmers' bargaining power and debt negotiations. NSWFA poultry group chairman Shaun Rodger said if the legislation were removed, farmers would be forced out of business and their local economies would suffer.
If the NCC recommendations go ahead, chicken farmers will lose their bargaining power with large processors. Also, a requirement making it compulsory for banks to negotiate with farmers in debt would be repealed. The NSW Government faces a penalty of $51.44 million a year if the policies are not removed.
NSWFA business, economics and trade committee chairman Charles Armstrong described the move as "heartless". Quite often these farm debt mediations are successful in finding mutually acceptable solutions, he said. Requiring banks to negotiate with farmers struggling to meet repayments means that more farmers are staying in business.
All states and territories were given until June 30, 2002 to reform anti-competitive legislation, in return for competition bonuses from the Federal Government.
News.com.au, 29/10/03.
|
|
