New Zealand’s Minister for Agriculture, Biosecurity, Food Safety and Rural Communities Damien O’Connor announced on Wednesday that the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) will reorganise its functions to create a stronger focus on core responsibilities.

Mr O’Connor says government will set up four portfolio-based entities, Fisheries New Zealand, Forestry New Zealand, Biosecurity New Zealand and New Zealand Food Safety.

“Our priority is to achieve greater clarity and unity of purpose for these areas. We are seeking enhanced visibility of government policy and regulatory activities and clearer lines of accountability and engagement for stakeholders.

MPI will build up its forestry presence in Rotorua, Mr O’Connor says. “Rotorua’s location puts it at the heart of our forestry sector and makes it the most appropriate site for a dedicated forestry presence to support the Government’s ambition in this important sector.

“It’s likely further change in the forest space will occur after policy and operational work to deliver the Government’s ambitious goals in this area.”

Reorganisation of MPI’s functions will occur in the early part of 2018 and will be in place by April. The estimated cost to implement the changes is NZ$6.8 million to establish the four portfolio-based business units. Additional ongoing operating costs are estimated at NZ$2.3m per annum.

MPI will commence planning immediately. Reorganisation of MPI’s functions will occur in the early part of 2018 and will be in place by April.

Source: Scoop