OPINION
We were once told that farmers were the backbone of our economy and essential to our survival. Now, we’re told that extracting minerals is crucial for wealth and job creation. Are we being fooled again?
Surely, we can invest in research and development and support innovative, sustainable ideas to grow exports – like our talented game developers, hemp production, hydrogen energy, and countless other possibilities. The Government claims it wants to create more and better jobs, yet it’s allowing the loss of 600 jobs in Timaru and many others because cash flow has dried up in these communities. Thousands of workers seem to be losing jobs due to government policies. Isn’t protecting existing jobs better than letting good ones vanish?
Why should we rely on extraction, like a third-world country, allowing multinationals to take our minerals and profits offshore while leaving us with environmental cleanup? This will only harm our tourism industry without a second thought. Let’s create wealth for New Zealanders through meaningful jobs. Where is the vision?
Mary-Ann de Kort
Gisborne
The Gisborne Herald welcomes letters from readers. Please note the following:
-
Letters should not exceed 350 words.
-
They should be opinion based on facts or current events.
-
If possible, please email.
-
No noms-de-plume.
-
Letters will be published with names and suburb/city.
-
Please include full name, address and contact details for our records only.
-
Local letter writers are given preference.
-
Rejected letters are not normally acknowledged.
-
Letters may be edited, abridged, or rejected at the Editor’s discretion.
-
The Editor’s decision on publication is final. No correspondence will be entered into.