LOW CONFIDENCE IN AGRICULTURE OUTLOOK SHOULD STIR ACTION
Sunday 4 August 2013
The low levels of confidence in the agricultural sector is a warning sign that more is required of government, said Guy Barnett State Liberal candidate for Lyons today.
“The Rabobank Rural Confidence Survey released in June showed that:
“…more farmers having a negative outlook than positive. Just over a third of the state’s farmers (36 per cent) still expected the agricultural economy to worsen over the coming 12 months, although this was significantly down from 63 per cent with that view last survey. A total of 13 per cent expected conditions to improve (up slightly from 11 per cent previously), while 40 per cent were expecting similar conditions to the previous 12 months.”
“We have so many competitive advantages in Tasmanian agriculture. Rich soil, favourable climate, abundant water, a top brand and enterprising farmers. A plan to grow our agricultural output is the way to go, he said.
“The green tape and red tape is a huge issue. With 38,000 small businesses in Tasmania employing 105,000 people they want to get on and wherever possible grow and employ more Tasmanians.
“We need one planning system, not thirty plus. We can, and should do better.
I travel throughout rural Tasmania and see the opportunities for growth development and jobs.” Mr Barnett concluded.
Guy Barnett State Liberal candidate for Lyons
