Andrew Hoggard: Vital to understand issues

Andrew Hoggard.

As a trading nation, New Zealand must engage in global policy debates that, on face value, might appear to be a junket for delegates.

I was recently picked as an employer expert for an International Labour Organisation (ILO) meeting looking at improving sustainable livelihoods in the agri-food sector, particularly in developing nations.

The aim was to find consensus among government, employer and employee representatives. The process was fairly intense as the document was repetitive and filled with waffle that, if interpreted in certain ways, could prove dangerous.

A Kiwi farmer might wonder what real impact this would have on their business.

If it had been ratified, the government would set all rural wages, with multi-employer collective bargaining recommended. Instead of you discussing with your staff what they're worth, it is decided for you.

Another section opined that organic production would result in higher output and employment. I pointed out that, in my case, switching to organics would result in the opposite. No argument, organics are worthwhile for some, but it will not lift production.

I get they were trying to outlaw child labour but it needed to recognise that kids doing a bit of work on the weekends or holidays can be a good thing for their development.

New Zealand is one of the few countries that has refused to ratify the Convention on Child Labour for this reason.

The ILO document underlined why it is vital we understand the implications of any global treaty we're asked to ratify.

- Andrew Hoggard is deputy chairman of Federated Farmers