Consultation
81. Although we have not sought formal responses from business interests, pending consideration of the issues by Ministers, there would appear to be a broad consensus behind the programme suggested, and a general willingness to be involved in pursuing particular initiatives. Specifically:
- the Growth and Innovation Advisory Board (GIAB) has now discussed sustainable business issues at two meetings, including a half day session;
- the half day session was attended by chief executives and/or senior representatives from Business New Zealand, NZTE, Ag Research, Landcare Research, FRST, PGG Wrightson, and Fonterra;
- proposals relating to Qualmark and the development of a mechanism to position New Zealand on the positive side of the travel miles issue have been discussed with industry interests in the context of the n the mid-term update of the New Zealand Tourism Strategy - the update process has involved significant stakeholder and industry engagement and there is a wide level of support for these initiatives;
- existing sustainable business organisations such as the New Zealand Business Council for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Business Network are encouraging stronger government leadership.
82. It is not proposed that a single sector reference group be established to provide input into this work, as originally contemplated. Each initiative will require a tailored engagement programme that will be developed as part of the project planning process. This will include utilising existing stakeholder groups such the Growth and Innovation Advisory Board, the MFAT-led food miles group and Industry groups in relation to tourism and seafood.
83. This paper has been discussed with DPMC, Treasury, MfE, MAF, MFAT, MoRST and NZTE. Relevant parts have also been discussed with TNZ, EECA and MFish.
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