New chair for Federated Farmers Rural Butchers

Managing director of Ashburton-based Netherby Meats, Mike Hanson, was yesterday elected chairperson of Federated Farmers Rural Butchers.

“I wish to express my sincerest gratitude to outgoing chairperson, Gibby Campbell, who has tirelessly campaigned for the advancement of our industry,” says Mike Hanson, Federated Farmers Rural Butchers chairperson.

“Although Gibby will remain on our executive, his foresight as chairperson will be sorely missed. The future of our industry is now in doubt with the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee’s upcoming Code of Practice for Commercial Slaughter. This code will undoubtedly determine the long-term viability of our businesses.

“Federated Farmers Rural Butchers has been representing the interests of rural butchers for more than 10 years. We monitor local policy and regulations as well as offer an effective voice when it comes to the development of national policies that impact our industry,” Mr Hanson added.

Mr Hanson was elected at Federated Farmers Rural Butchers annual conference in Rotorua yesterday. He has been a rural butcher for 15 years and a Federated Farmers member for more than five years.

His business has gradually expanded to include the retail and wholesale of meat products, smallgoods manufacturing and ham and bacon curing. He brings a wealth of experience to the job as a past member of Rural Butchers executive and a clear vision for the future of our industry.

“Rural Butchers is committed to the development of an adequate welfare standard for animals. We’re looking to ensure the code of practice reflects these standards without enforcing unfair costs,” Mr Hanson continued.

“While the code is yet to be published, there’s long standing concern it will dilute profits through the implementation of unrealistic and unaffordable restrictions and regulations.

“That’s not what we need right now as, despite the downturn, the home kill industry is marching on. The reality is that thousands of families send stock to privately owned processors every year as an alternative to the supermarket refrigerator. That’s our niche and always will be.

“The privately owned meat processing, wholesale and retail sectors are looking for an optimistic and sustainable future. I look forward to representing their interests at both the central and local government level,” Mr Hanson concluded.