English visits south

Acting Prime Minister Bill English is to investigate Southland's roading issues after a meeting with representatives from Southland District Council and Federated Farmers yesterday.  Mr English said he was happy to take up the issues raised with the New Zealand Transport Agency.

Mrs Cardno said the meeting was very helpful as both she and the Federated Farmers representatives were able to put their views and information across.

Federated Farmers spokesman Doug Fraser emphasised the importance of the rural road network to the New Zealand economy.

"Any shortfall in funding would have to be met by Southland ratepayers, particularly the farming community who pay 70% of the District Council's roading rate," Mr Fraser said.

Council has major concerns about the constrained funding from NZTA for its roading budget and has raised these at national level with Transport Minister Steven Joyce.

Of particular concern are the constrained funding for the reseal programme and the reductions to unsealed road maintenance and snow clearing.

"Mr English is our MP as well as being Finance Minister and so it is important he is fully aware of the issues we are facing here in the south.

"We are struggling to maintain our roads now and the constrained funding is going to hurt us and the Southland economy," Mrs Cardno said.

"We really appreciate the fact that Mr English took the time to come to Council and talk to us," Federated Farmers Southland provincial president Rod Pemberton said.

The group asked Mr English for help in finding solutions that could meet the needs of both parties.