I have been spending a lot of time driving up and down the electorate and have shared drivers’ frustrations. Change can’t come soon enough – I’ve heard that loud and clear. Give your feedback on the rule change at transport.govt.nz.
In addition to this welcome news on speed limits, the Budget 2024 announcements saw more funding for the repairs needed to keep us moving safely about the region. The Government’s Pothole Prevention Fund pays for resealing, rehabilitation, and drainage maintenance works to help NZTA and local councils bring our state highways and local roads up to scratch. Provincial communities rely on good roads and this funding is another piece of great news.
It was great to see some familiar faces at National Fieldays last week. Grass – or lack of it as well as commodity prices were top of mind, alongside cyclone recovery, and the cost of living of course.
There was a lot of chatter around this week’s Government announcement agriculture is being taken out of the New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme. I’m pleased our election promise has been delivered. Investing in research and development to give farmers tools to reduce methane in a way that won’t reduce production, or put farmers out of business, makes more sense to me.
Work to constructively tackle methane will be taken forward by a new Pastoral Sector Group. I’m confident they’ll find a balance that meets consumer expectations as well as maintain profitability for the industry ultimately benefitting the Wairarapa Electorate – and all New Zealanders - through a stronger export economy.
Being named as one of five MPs who will lead ‘Rural Nats’ this week was a highlight. This is a new special interest group within the National Party focused on rural people and issues. Having been a farmer all my life, I understand the difficulties of overcoming red tape, planning for the future and, at the same time, running the farm day-to-day. I’m pleased to be able to contribute to the future of farming nationally through the work of Rural Nats.
Since the previous Government’s decision last year to remove the resit fee for driving tests, there’s been a significant increase in demand for testing. I’ve heard from parents, advocates and young drivers that this has led to long delays and I’m pleased the Transport Minister is currently looking at options to relieve pressure on the system. Road Safety Teams and Police have been working to ensure young people are licensed, safe drivers, and it’s important times are available when they are ready to take their test.
Budget 2024 provided $226 million across the country to deliver 500 extra police officers and $424.9 million to support frontline policing and boost police pay. This investment in the police frontline will help ensure we feel safe in our homes and communities.
As the MP for Wairarapa, I’ve enjoyed being at many events in recent weeks - in among juggling select committee hearings. It’s been a privilege to honour and celebrate some very special people. It’s National Volunteer Week this week, a big shout out to our dedicated local volunteers - thank you for all you do for us. Send me your suggestions for people you think need recognition for their community contribution. Stay in touch.
Mike Butterick, MP for Wairarapa - phone 0800 MP MIKE/0800676453 or email mike.butterickmp@parliament.govt.nz
