I see it is back to pick-on-the-farmers-again time and quite frankly I think it is time to broaden the focus a little.

When is there going to be this constant pushback about work practises for the industries that use and pollute copious amounts of water to manufacture their products?

What sort of noise are we making about air pollution caused by industries making the products we demand for comfortable daily living?

Does this mean we should all stop eating dairy products and stop using cars and all the technology we so heavily rely on because producing them and using them takes a huge toll on the environment?

What about the businesses that get free advertising from the wrappers and bottles that are disposed of on roadsides and gutters by their consumers?

Is it farmers who are throwing illegal rubbish onto roadsides and into waterways because humans can't be bothered taking it to the recyclers, putting it out for collection or don't want to pay tip fees and councils have to bear the costs to clean up after these lazy, inconsiderate people?

I'm not saying that all farmers are doing the right thing because they are not, any more than all sectors of industry, but at least farmers have made a start, with a number of them resting pastures and planting and protecting waterways.

Let's not forget that farmers' efforts have helped to contribute to the lifestyle we enjoy in this country.

Our problems do not stem from just one industry so instead of whinging and whining, look at our part in pollution and water wastage and become positive forces for change by doing something about the way we live.

Shirley Caughey Gate Pa