Research, science and technology
New Zealand has one of the lowest investments in pure science and research and development in the OECD at around 1.2% of GDP. Where we ought to be a leader, given the primary basis of our economy, we are in fact a follower.
Federated Farmers believes the historic under investment in this area, as opposed to superficial ‘magic bullets' as exemplified by the over hyped ‘knowledge wave' and under performing New Zealand Venture Investment Fund, has been to the detriment of our economy and the ability for farming to add value to exports that underpin the economy.
A key facet of this is not necessarily quantity but quality of research. Federated Farmers supports paying our best scientists a lot more in order to retain and attract the best brains to New Zealand. The Federation has, however, little time for pseudo-science and sociological studies that detract from pure R&D investment.
If New Zealand is to have a world-class economy we need a world class investment in the field that will partner with farmers to develop the technologies, crops, feed and animals that will assure our country remains at the top of its game.
The policy advisor for reseach, science and technology is General Manager of Policy and Advocacy, Mark Ross. To contact Mark call 0800 327 646 or click here to email.
