Invercargill MP Penny Simmonds said it was significant to have the Minister of Agriculture and Trade Todd McClay in our province today.

“It’s been a great opportunity for the minister to meet with farmers and rural businesses to understand their needs and hear their concerns.

Farmsource in Invercargill. Photo: Supplied

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“The rural sector is the backbone of the Southland and the NZ economy - 80 percent of our exports are from the primary sector - and it’s important that local farmers and rural industry know that the Government has got their backs.”

Southland Rural Heritage Centre at Thornbury. Photo: Supplied

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Minister McClay and Ms Simmonds had a luncheon with farmers at Farmsource in Invercargill, visited PGG Wrightsons, the Southern Dairy Hub and the Southland Rural Heritage Centre at Thornbury, before hosting a BBQ and Public Meeting in Otautau. 

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