Greens Senator Christine Milne is calling on the Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association to explain why it talked with National Foods in Melbourne without any consultation with the Tasmanian Suppliers Collective Bargaining Group formed by struggling dairy farmers.
“It beggars belief the TFGA would take that action without consultation,” Senator Christine Milne says.
“The TFGA has undermined the collective effort of Tasmanian dairy farmers and the Tasmanian community, who are a hundred percent behind the dairy farmers’ fight for a fair deal.”
“Not only did the TFGA act without consultation, they then sided with the company and recommended the farmers accept a price per litre of almost 7 cents below the cost of production.”
“How does a peak body justify recommending to its members that they accept a price below the cost of production?”
“Mr Oldfield should explain to the farmers and the Tasmanian community why he is recommending that our dairy farmers trade insolvent.”
“Mr Oldfield must explain before tomorrow’s Senate Inquiry in Launceston why the TFGA behaved in such a rogue manner.”
Senator Christine Milne
