That’s the issue with hill, when she’s interested in the subject she’s top of the game but when it’s not in her interest zone she gets very unprofessional starving listeners of viewpoints she’s not up for hearing.
Thanks Bored for the link
Really interesting interview! She’s saying in a light academic easy listening way the same message as R Atack,in his abrasive way and AFewKnowTheTruth have been batting on with for a long time!
Primary Points:
1. 50% of oil left but it’s lower quality stuff, harder to refine and increasingly more and more difficult to access and get out This means a decline in available oil due to declining EROEI (Energy return on energy invested) This mean going into a permanent supply decline probable beginning this year. Decline has already set in but has been covered so far by new discoveries but these are are only at band aid level.
2. The fiat debt interest bearing money creation system depends on the infinite growth paradigm which is now sunk on the peak oil Peak and other resource decline plus a used up maxed out environment. Hence this money system has collapsed also due to the incredible amounts of debt incurred which cannot ever be repaid.
Human World– Money system— Physical resources. The money system is the interface between the two. The creation of the fiat interest bearing debt is a claim on future resource acquisition when the latter fails so does the former.
3. The era of globalised trade is doomed probably within the next 10 years or less and we will all have to begin relocalising.For the reason of higher and higher fuel costs. The era of lots of stuff will be over.
R. Heinberg The End of Growth review
Industrialized economies have grown most years since the mid-19th century. Globally, economic output per person increased tenfold between 1900 and 2000. Richard Heinberg says that this long run of economic growth is reaching an end owing to a number of factors: depletion of fossil fuels, minerals and fresh water; the escalating cost of industrial accidents and environmental disasters in the wake of global climate change; and financial disruptions due to the inability of our financial system to service “the enormous piles of government and private debt” generated over the past few decades.
“3. The era of globalised trade is doomed probably within the next 10 years or less and we will all have to begin relocalising.For the reason of higher and higher fuel costs. The era of lots of stuff will be over.”
I’m not quite sure what to make of these claims. Undoubtedly globalised trade will diminish, quite probably drastically, maybe as much as down to only 5-20% of it’s current amount, but trans-national trade has always existed and likely always will so long as nations exists and have excess things they can trade.
Agree. Trans-national trade will continue even if it is by sailing ship and steamer, as per the days of old.
But there will be big differences. For instance, this won’t simply be a matter of NZ having its iPad 3’s delivered on a steamer instead of via air-freight.
The complex, expensive supply networks and just in time logistics needed to put an iPad 3 together in the first place simply won’t be viable any more. Costs will go up, which means design complexity (specifications) will have to fall even as the retail price rises. Higher store prices combined with worker incomes falling in failing economies means far fewer units sold. (Peak-credit will exacerbate the situation). This economic calculation will feedback to Apple who will drastically change which products it pursues development of, which markets it decides to serve, and how it serves them.
Put another way – a lot of material stuff is going to gain real value and rarity status again, just like in the old days when people really treasured and looked after individual items they owned. The end of throw-away consumerism.
a lot of material stuff is going to gain real value and rarity status again, just like in the old days when people really treasured and looked after individual items they owned. The end of throw-away consumerism.
This is a gloat, gloat speak for yourself moment! 😀
In our family we’ve always done that – looked after our ‘stuff’. Even my mobile phone is years old, and was ‘old tech’ then – (not that I wouldn’t like a fancy one, but can’t afford it. )
Trade has always existed but nation states haven’t been as dependent upon it as they are now. The amount of trade was far less because long distance trade is, without the cheap energy of fossil fuels, far too expensive to maintain.
One of the things I believe the energy gap of the future will drive is true costs becoming transparent and extremely localised. Which has the potential for the individual to be rid of “taxes” inherent in transfer costs within corporations (i.e if you understand the whole supply chain because it is short and visible you wont pay for anything other than what is explicit). In effect we will probably have much less income but will get a proportionally better return for it.
For those RWNJs I am describing a market as Adam Smith understood it without the distortion by “rentier” activities (i.e corporate transfer costs etc etc).
Brewer attacks brown over the size of his mayoral office. When is Len going to grow a pair and expose this divisive supershity council The Nats designed that they thought Banks would be heading.
POAL is a great opportunity to get out there in a statesman like manner and show akl they’ve been shafted……the time is now, what are ya made of Len?
Brewers comments seem to fit in well with the attempts to curb local government, by central govt. This is simply a poor attempt to point score by Brewer, who one really cant have much time for, he is not a good councillor for AKL, but serves his purpose for the right.
Yes LB should really get a set…I can tell you that is not going to happen!
Prime Minster John Key will be seeking out United States President Barack Obama in their hotel gym this morning. And he wants his room back.
The pair are staying at Seoul’s plush Grand Hyatt hotel for the Nuclear Security Summit tonight. It’s Mr Key’s second visit to the five-star hotel on Mt Namsan. But although the red carpet was rolled out for his arrival on Saturday, he’s not getting the same special treatment as Mr Obama.
“He’s got my room,” Mr Key said. “That’s the room I stayed in last time. I guess they don’t call it the presidential suite for nothing. I might see him in the gym tomorrow morning.”
I think i stayed there 10 years ago there was a strike and that was the only advailable rooms.
Anyway what surprised mer was ethere was a high level conference in the top of the hotel with shipley, japanese, etc. And i was able to get up to the conference room with out any securtity checkor being even questioned. Different time!
Funny thing, back in the 80s after the Tour a number of us seemed to get rejected from any government job we applied for, did not even get the interview. I was always suspicious, who knows? Fortunately for me commerce worked out better and more financially rewarding.
“He’s got my room,” Mr Key said. “That’s the room I stayed in last time. I guess they don’t call it the presidential suite for nothing. I might see him in the gym tomorrow morning.”
“Look at me! Look at me! Look at ME!” Insecure much, Mr Key?
“Labor’s numbers are so small it must rely on the mercy of Mr Newman for it to retain official party status.”
While various arguments have been put forward as to the reasons for the loss, such as the rejection of a woman premier, the carbon tax, Rudd’s challenge to Gillard and Bligh’s turning from “nice” to “attack dog,” this stood out for me:
“Bligh did not tell Queenslanders before the last election that she intended a massive sell-off of state assets, and she and her colleagues implied such a thing wasn’t being contemplated. Then, in government, the sell-off went ahead, with Bligh arguing it was necessary for her state’s economy. The public did not forgive, and most observers believe it was a major reason for her downfall.”
It is all too easy to think that Labour must move to the right because voters are “so over” left wing values, when what what voters are in fact rejecting are parties that purport to stand for left wing values but do not.
It is all too easy to think that Labour must move to the right because voters are “so over” left wing values, when what what voters are in fact rejecting are parties that purport to stand for left wing values but do not.
I think its time for some in the Labour hierarchy to accept that it’s they who are over left wing values, not the rest of us.
Core voters and activists will not support a weak party which compromises on its own principles in order to pander to transient swing supporters.
Good point, Oz labor partys are fairly centrist and mostly go on branding and personalities, there’s not alot between them and liberals, the sell off was foolish, not required and without electoral mandate so she paid the price.
labor has been in 20 yrs in QLD and they just had some of their worst natural disasters. With the opposition getting it’s act together a perfect electoral storm prevailed.
There’s something freeing, to be sure, about being able to say anything you want. You can engage in unfounded name-calling, or intentionally hurt someone’s feelings, or just generally behave like a twelve year old. And no one will know it’s you. And that’s why I don’t read many blogs that are written by people who prefer to remain anonymous or who write under pseudonyms when there isn’t really any reason for them to do so.
In fact, I don’t think there are any blogs I read on a daily basis whose authors are anonymous. The anonymous or pseudonymous blogs are often just filled with cruelty, name-calling, and bad arguments. Indeed, there are a great many people who choose to write under an assumed name because they want to harrass or offend others.
In my experience there’s some truth to that.
When I read a blog post that anonymously uses phrases like “Both sides are scum” and “making a dick of himself and pathetically trying” it immediately diminishes in stature for me.
When comparing the general tone of that with this post, which is also politically critical but a more reasoned and reasonable tone, I know which one I respect more. Notably this author has chosen to identify themselves.
They believe their anonymity means they create better writing. It is a specious argument and one that largely leads to their blogs becoming echo chambers.
I believe that if more of them “came out” that there would be a better more honest, reasoned, political discourse in the NZ blogosphere.
I agree. It can still be robust debate when you are up front and honest about who you are.
(I’ve posted my own blog on this but chosen to put it in full here to reduce nitpicking over linking. I undertsand that some people have good reasons to blog anonymously, but political commentary has enough suspicions about motive as it is without being cloaked.)
The Standard doesn’t have “anonymous blogging” as you like to imply, it has pseudonymous blogging. That is very different.
Go search and read others of Eddie’s posts and you will see the tone in them is often quite similar to the one that you are whining about. Similarly r0b’s posts have always had a similar tone, before and after he decided to start putting his real name on them.
It’s no different than if Cameron Slater were pseudonymous – his blog would still be a vile sewer. Attaching his name to it clearly hasn’t made him clean up his act.
I think an identity can make a significant difference to credibility (obviously it doesn’t make it credible, just lends more credibility).
I know I’ll probably get hammered again here, but if what I say is disliked or not, anything I comment or post I’d be prepared to say face to face to anyone.
I disagree with Whaleoil as much as I agree with him and his method of operation, but I find his blog far less deviously vitriolic than here – and there’s more freedom to say what you want there. In other words, there’s generally more shit here, so the sewer accusations are kinda weird.
You seem to be under the impression that when, for example, I am in face to face encounters, I do not call an individual, on occasion, a stupid fucking self-absorbed moron. I have. If that lowers their regard for me, I don’t care. They’re fucking morons.
On the single-digit occasions I’ve been to KB or WO or their equivalents, most of the epithets I’ve seen have been aimed at entire cultures or social groups rather than individuals. And without any moderation if someone crosses over into personal-safety issues. I’ll call you a dick to your face, but not your entire culture.
Posting under your given name doesn’t add to the argument, at all, ever. And, yes, I’m quite willing to call you a delusional fuckwit to your face as well.
Pete you are boring the most Bored person in the world. Dull dull dull dull….now whilst you are talking “scum” and a person “making a dick of himself” might I bring up a name you are familiar with? A Mr Peter Dunne, the man who wants to sell us down the river.
Pete you are boring the most Bored person in the world. Dull dull dull dull….now whilst you are talking “scum” and a person “making a dick of himself” might I bring up a name you are familiar with?
Oh ma dai! You’re proving his point, by being so abusive. You may find him dull (really, you usually say much worse than that to him.) I rarely agree with him, but on the other hand, the abuse here on the Standard is sometimes so incredibly foul, it’s obvious that Standardistas have huge issues with being disagreed with.
(I am keeping a mental note of every foul name I am called, and every bit of race and sex-based abuse handed to me.)
Who here has caught up with the latest scandal to hit the Torys in UK? The deputy Chancellor selling off time with the Prime Minister for “contributions”, and having private individuals “issues” to the Policy Committee for “consideration”. Democracy for sale……
I imagine that a large enough donation to any party would gain access to its leader. Regrettable, perhaps, but a fact of life. This is why various countries, including NZ, attempt to limit campaign spending.
Matthew Hooten distorted Annette King’s interview, and attempted to turn the tables by accusing Helen Clark of having had “an unethical, close working relationship with Howard Broad” and that she leaked knowledge of the meeting in question to the media before it had taken place. No evidence to back up such an absurd claim, and he did his usual shouting over the top of the two women, Josie Pagani and Kathryn Ryan. I found his allegations interesting given all the embarrassing “leaking” that has been occurring over the ACC/Pullar/Boag/Smith/Collins/Key affair.
Nat. Party panic mode is at full throttle methinks.
Says alot about Ryan and RNZ that they persist in having the badly beahaved boy hooten on, can’t wait his turn to say his piece must shout and prevent others making their point.
Bad radio, bad behaviour, rewarded every time with another soapbox slot for mr shouty.
On the one hand his party has accepted hundreds of thousands of dollars in bribes donations, on the other, he wants to keep up with the Australians and this is an opportunity to look tough. Decisions decisions…
The Australians will do as they are told by the USA, this much as become clear over the years, and so having taken the money from Huawei, and even had them in NZ looking for prey to purchase, Key really is in a tight spot…
Good link that one….potentially some more “xenophobia” coming along!
The thought of Key feeling under seige by his ministers, and possibly stuck between OZ/US and China, really should give one pause for a smile!
These paragraphs in particular stood out for me, especially the last bit of para 2 re Key singling out the firm:
“The New Zealand government has welcomed Huawei’s interest in the ultrafast broadband (UFB) network.
Trade Minister Tim Groser, Economic Development Minister Steven Joyce and Finance Minister Bill English visited the company in China after Prime Minister John Key singled out the firm for possible involvement in the UFB network.”
The National Party’s desire to get paid has so far outweighed the national interest on every occasion – education policy, gambling laws, asset sales, penal reform, resource extraction, etc etc.
Will it outweigh Australia and the USA’s interests too?
70 more jobs to go from a government department…..
Govt fishery observers told to get ready to pack up
Published: 6:23PM Sunday March 25, 2012 Source: ONE News
A leaked email from the Ministry of Fisheries reveals that observers on commercial fishing vessels will have their jobs outsourced by the end of the year.
The observers are stationed on commercial fishing vessels to monitor the catch and conditions on the boats.
The leaked email reveals that around 70 Ministry of Fisheries observers have been told their jobs are being outsourced by December.
Industry insiders say that the move will rob the watchdogs of their independence.
One former observer says that they play a vital role.
“No-one has questioned the quality of their information and it shouldn’t be compromised for money, and certainly not when the fisheries are under pressure.”
Critics argue that outsourcing will allow fishing companies to pick observers who are prepared to turn a blind eye in order to keep their jobs.
Currently observers are employed by the Ministry of Fisheries on short term contracts while they are at sea.
The Ministry recoups their pay and administration expenses from the fishing companies.
Glenn Simmons from the University of Auckland told ONE News he cannot see the logic in the change.
“I really can’t see any cost savings in it, so I really wonder what is driving this, particularly from the Ministry’s point of view.”
But documents show the fishing industry has been pushing for outsourcing for at least six years.
The Ministry of Fisheries would not be interviewed for this story, and refused to give an explanation of the benefits gained by outsourcing the observer roles.
The Minister of Fisheries, David Carter told ONE News that observers are not likely to be outsourced by December.
“At this stage there’s still a lot more work to be done as to how best to deliver observer services on foreign charter vessels and other vessels no decision has been made about outsourcing.”
Nevertheless, one former observer says that the decision seems fixed.
“They’ve already decided, it appears they’re not asking any questions here.”
Watch as our seas get raped even more as the private providers who are supposed to be watching the catch find that it’s more profitable to cut back on the number of observers making it impossible to actually regulate the industry as required.
“I really can’t see any cost savings in it, so I really wonder what is driving this, particularly from the Ministry’s point of view.”
It’s just another way for this government to hand over our wealth to their rich mates.
Speculating because im not that knowledgable about the industry but I expect this means boats will fish in areas they arent allowed, mis reporting of bycatch especially marine mammals, rorting of the quotas and maybe that final nail in the coffin for the Hectors dolphin.
Great to see that details are still being leaked from Government Departments.
Keeps the public service busy.
Long may it continue providing the informants cannot be traced, but that is getting easier to trace.
I could ask – but shaving heads is not for everyone. I don’t have much left on top but have never felt inclined to take the lot off. I do donate to things without taking part in the marketing gimmicks, as I’m sure many people do.
Interestingly, PRC’s mission statement starts with “We Believe Everyone Deserves A Voice.” Perhaps “We Believe Everyone Who Purchases Our Devices Deserves A Voice” or “We Believe Everyone Except Those Needing An Affordable App Deserves a Voice” might be more appropriate alternatives.
Well that is a bit weird:
“Police will not lay charges against freelance cameraman Bradley Ambrose over the so-called “teapot tapes” affair, Assistant Commissioner Malcolm Burgess says.
He said police will issue Mr Ambrose with a warning after referring the matter to Crown Law.
…….clear that the actions of Mr Ambrose were unlawful.”
That needs clarification:
Was it unlawful to leave his recorder on the table?
Was it unlawful to retrieve it?
Was it subsequent actions that made it unlawful?
What does unlawful mean against a criminal act?
Sort of cleared but damned. http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10794713
That needs clarification:
Was it unlawful to leave his recorder on the table?
He left it there quite reasonably. And really what value was it to reporters if they could not publish it, and did not? Maybe it was a turd blossom Key’s minders wanted leaked, making Key look like a victim of the nasty press.
Was it unlawful to retrieve it?
It was his property, and arguable are you allowed to break the PM security to retrieve your property?
Was it subsequent actions that made it unlawful?
What does unlawful mean against a criminal act?
If he was given a warning, what were the specifics of the warning he was given????
Sort of cleared but damned.
Police must think there was enough evidence but the prosecution may believe he already suffered enough.
My point is that I am unsure what the unlawful bit is? (Just in case I mislay my recorder, or hand it on when found or even need to know when a public place is a private place.)
The allegation was of intentionally recording someone when they would have reasonably expected a private conversation. I.e. apparently banks and key were expecting to be able to whisper intimate nothings into each other’s ear without being heard.
Given that it was at a media event with cameras rolling just on the other side of an open door, and that the camera operator claimed to have forgotten the mic in all the hubbub, and that the private conversation took place in a public cafe the police have decided to pretend that the offence was committed without all that difficult “proof” stuff.
No Right Turn shows the amazing Stats.
Lib/National 49% of votes but 87% of seats
Labour 27% of vote but 8% of seats
Greens 7% of vote but 0% of seats.
Quick question for you lefties and then I’ll leave you alone again.
Is Cuba regarded as having a better or worse system than Western free market economies?
I’m just reading a very interesting survey on Cuba on the Economist at the moment and find the left wing policies there mind bogingly dumb and was wondering if they are consistent with any left wing thinking here. For example, apparently advertising is not allowed WTF?
Yawn, it’s afternoon tea time..time for a quick break..my men and I have been making the hard cash today..and here comes Gos.
Gos understands the mind numbing complexities of Zimmers and now Cuba, paragons of “errant” left wing thinking. These Gos equates to socialist thinking everywhere…..such a broad brush stroke over such a broad church.
Interestingly Gos displays a very extreme ideological purity over what is also a very broad church, right wing thinking. The mind numbing neo lib orthodox version.
It was a simple question Bored. All it required was an answer along the lines of ‘We like it’s social policies but the majority of it’s economic policies and it’s political repression is reprehensible so the West is better in that respect’. Not hard to do really.
Ummmm…. I’m not asking anything about my world view. I’m asking about lefties world view in relation to Cuba. I’m not interested in getting into a debate on the rights or wrongs of this. Think of it as intelligence gathering or ‘Know thy enemy’.
Did anyone hear on Sunday 7pm Radionz World Book Club: James Ellroy – American Tabloid.which goes through the Bay of Pigs debacle and ties it into the assassination of John Kennedy.
Ellroy pondered what things would have been different if Cuba had been invaded as planned (Kennedy had envisaged 16 planes but only sent in six)according to this fictionalised account.
I think their most significant economic “policy” has been dictated to them by the US.
How well do you think NZ would be doing if Australia had the same trade embargos with us?
Not wanting to get into a massive debate about this but the embargo by the US should not really be that much of big deal now. Cuba is free to trade with numerous other countries. To try and place the blame for economic difficulties on that is not really fair.
That’s right Gosman. 50 odd years of being denied the opportunity to trade with your nearest neighbour which just happens to be the world’s biggest economy is unlikely to have had any effect one way or the other.
What makes you think that they are left-wing? I read the articles on the weekend and thought that they reminded me of the days of Muldoon.
Looks more like a standard controlled economy. A bit like the UK during and for a decade after the second world war. For that matter our current labour laws that forbid freedoms of association are much the same.
Depends on your definition of left wing I suppose. The idea of guarranteed minimum living standards would be more left than right. Also the aversion to private property. What was interesting, as stated, was the fact that they outlaw advertising. I don’t know if that is regarded as left wing or not hence one of the reason asking the question.
Gosman I totally agree with you Cuba is way worse for being a company based on Socialism, as were many of the Eastern block countries.
One of the main issues of Socialism ,and someting they have never been able to get to grips with. Is eventually you run out of other peoples money
… although the reason Cuba “ran out of money” was because of a US-sponsored embargo. So of it’s it’s unsurprising they “ran out of money”. So would you, if you couldn’t earn an income.
Hardly ‘cricket’, is it?
And definitely anti-free market.
Though I guess using Thatcher’s slogans is easier than reality?
Frank why did the Eastern Block countries run out of money, and Russia no embargo there? they were collapsing all over the place. Agree with Cuba though understanable Kennedy didnt want nukes there
In simplified terms because no one wanted to buy their products. When you take competitors out of the situation and only supply state made products. You dumb everyone down to the lowest common denominator. Many of their products were shite. There was a total lack of innovation because of state control. It became just a job with no passion no critical thinking
“It became just a job with no passion no critical thinking” – Well done mate you have just described 90% of the worlds jobs, if not nearer 100% as they exist under the current prevailing system!
Many of their products were shite. There was a total lack of innovation because of state control. It became just a job with no passion no critical thinking
BULLSHIT
The state can innovate and take risks far more than the private sector is willing to do, James.
Everything from the atomic bomb, to the transistor, to the foundations of the internet, to supersonic jet travel, the state has led the way while private companies only become interested once the hard risky expensive work has been done on the public purse.
There was a total lack of innovation because of state control.
And that would be why the USSR was the first country in the world to orbit the earth with a man made satellite and why, once they got over being terrified, the USA landed on the moon…
Oh, wait…
BTW, it’s impossible to run out of money as the banks print it as fast as possible. The real problem is that we’re running out of resources due to the capitalist free-market (which, of course, is no where near “free”).
I’m not really commenting on the Cuban situation at all beyond stating that you can’t blame the economic problems in Cuba on the embargo by the US.
Cuba did relatively well up to the 1980’s. It didn’t need to trade with the US during this period.
The US hasn’t got the ability to massively impact other nations trading with Cuba either. Name me some countries or companies who have suffered as a result of doing business with Cuba.
I don’t agree with the economic embargo myself as it is counter productive but the US has every right to decide who it trades with. As leftists I am sure you would agree with that logic. It forms the basis of many of your objections to free trade pacts. You know – sovereignty blah blah.
Fine. No-one was arguing the right or ability of the USA to impose this embargo.
But you cannot discount the reason why it was imposed in the first place… the USA hoped to break Cuba economically, and it certainly had a big negative impact on their economy. You can’t simply ignore it because it doesn’t suit your argument. In the long run the embargo will probably prove counter-productive as the Cubans have also learned to make do with far less and have a more resilient economy as a result. It is certainly not as ‘efficient’ or ‘prosperous’ according to conventional measures… but as the Egyptian’s discovered when Joseph ruled them; the seven years of plenty meant little during the seven years of famine.
Interestingly if you read The Spirit Level closely enough, you will notice that Cuba is also the only country in the world that is close to being both socially and environmentally sustainable… at least according the to way the authors measured these things.
“… and it certainly had a big negative impact on their economy”
I respectively disagree. The embargo was put on in the 1960’s as you will see from the graph below the Cuban economy was able to redirect trade to other sources and managed quite good GDP growth through to the end of the 1980’s. Of course when those other trading sources fell over then their economy tanked but that is hardly the US’s fault.
What you seem to be saying here is that the US should be obliged to support economically the Cuban economy by allowing them to trade with them. It would be like trying to argue that Australia should be obliged to trade with us.
You should reread the Economist articles again and do it a bit more closely this time.
The Cuban economy was effectively being subsidised by the USSR especially with low prices for imported oil and high prices for exported sugar. This was largely as a response to the US embargo. When the USSR started to disintegrate in the late 80’s, the subsidies and markets diminished.
The embargo was (and still is) in place. In the late 80’s it included most countries in the america’s and western europe. This included the Panama canal. If you have a look at the available trade routes you’ll find that leaves very little that is a possible trade route apart from going half way around the world. Mostly africa, the middle east, and eastern europe. None of them exactly bursting with export potential for the commodities that Cuba produced and all with closer sources of supply.
The wonder was that the cuban economy didn’t fold under the embargo in the 90’s. But the embargo that has been stupidly maintained by US domestic politics was definitely the main constraint on their economy.
I’m sorry but nothing in that survey suggested the embargo was anything but an major irritant to Cuba. It certainly didn’t place the blame for the lack of economic performance on it. In fact it mentions that Cuba has an opportunity to become a significant economic player if it makes changes regardlesss of the embargo. If you disagree then please show where the survey supports your view rather than mine.
“For that matter our current labour laws that forbid freedoms of association are much the same. ”
Indeed. It’s interesting how repressive and controlling National actually is. they labelled Labour as “nanny state” – and yet they pass more restrictive laws than any Labour government.
Yet, they manage to cultivate an image as the “party of freedom”…
Yes and they say things like ‘eventually you run out of other people’s money’ about Labour while they are busy hoovering up as much ‘other people’s money’ as they can for themselves.
Interesting report on the Aotearoa blog think you guys need to go easy on Merryl Lynch and John Key or you could end up with a heap of egg on your face! Russai has put out an arrest warrant for him kind of ironical really
Soros is regarded by many as a sort of leftist saviour who finances leftist media outlets and who is fabulously wealthy. What is interesting is that Soros’ has been financing many colour revolutions around the world through his NGO’s causing death, destabilisation and mayhem in the chosen countries.
You may want to remember that our new lefty leader David Shearer actually worked for one of Soros’ NGO’s called The international crisis group which has such criminals as Zbignew Brzezinski and Richard Armitage on its board and as advisors.
Jimbo, you are on fire tonight – Soros is in fact a complete insider criminal of the very highest order..
I have huge reservations about Shearer, and any politician who has been indoctrinated via the USA educational brainwashing facilities, followed by their political pre screening services, and further brainwash. I also include the UN, and any of the alphabet soup organisations you can name, which far as I can tell are little more than criminal oganisations, masquerading as being the “good guys”
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I’m starting to wonder if Anna Burns-Francis might be the best political interviewer we’ve got. That might sound unlikely to you, it came as a bit of a surprise to me.Jack Tame can be excellent, but has some pretty average days. I like Rebecca Wright on Newshub, she asks good ...
Chris Trotter writes – Willie Jackson is said to be planning a “media summit” to discuss “the state of the media and how to protect Fourth Estate Journalism”. Not only does the Editor of The Daily Blog, Martyn Bradbury, think this is a good idea, but he has also ...
Graeme Edgeler writes – This morning [April 21], the Wellington High Court is hearing a judicial review brought by Hon. Karen Chhour, the Minister for Children, against a decision of the Waitangi Tribunal. This is unusual, judicial reviews are much more likely to brought against ministers, rather than ...
Both of Parliament’s watchdogs have now ripped into the Government’s Fast-track Approvals Bill. Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāMy pick of the six newsey things to know from Aotearoa’s political economy and beyond on the morning of Tuesday, April 23 are:The Lead: The Auditor General,John Ryan, has joined the ...
This is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections by Sarah SpengemanPeople wait to board an electric bus in Pune, India. (Image credit: courtesy of ITDP) Public transportation riders in Pune, India, love the city’s new electric buses so much they will actually skip an older diesel bus that ...
The infrastructure industry yesterday issued a “hurry up” message to the Government, telling it to get cracking on developing a pipeline of infrastructure projects.The hiatus around the change of Government has seen some major projects cancelled and others delayed, and there is uncertainty about what will happen with the new ...
Hi,Over the weekend I revisited a podcast I really adore, Dead Eyes. It’s about a guy who got fired from Band of Brothers over two decades ago because Tom Hanks said he had “dead eyes”.If you don’t recall — 2001’s Band of Brothers was part of the emerging trend of ...
Buzz from the Beehive The 180 or so recipients of letters from the Government telling them how to submit infrastructure projects for “fast track” consideration includes some whose project applications previously have been rejected by the courts. News media were quick to feature these in their reports after RMA Reform Minister Chris ...
It would not be a desirable way to start your holiday by breaking your back, your head, or your wrist, but on our first hour in Singapore I gave it a try.We were chatting, last week, before we started a meeting of Hazel’s Enviro Trust, about the things that can ...
Calling all journalists, academics, planners, lawyers, political activists, environmentalists, and other members of the public who believe that the relationships between vested interests and politicians need to be scrutinised. We need to work together to make sure that the new Fast-Track Approvals Bill – currently being pushed through by the ...
Feel worried. Shane Jones and a couple of his Cabinet colleagues are about to be granted the power to override any and all objections to projects like dams, mines, roads etc even if: said projects will harm biodiversity, increase global warming and cause other environmental harms, and even if ...
Bryce Edwards writes- The ability of the private sector to quickly establish major new projects making use of the urban and natural environment is to be supercharged by the new National-led Government. Yesterday it introduced to Parliament one of its most significant reforms, the Fast Track Approvals Bill. ...
Michael Bassett writes – If you think there is a move afoot by the radical Maori fringe of New Zealand society to create a parallel system of government to the one that we elect at our triennial elections, you aren’t wrong. Over the last few days we have ...
Without a corresponding drop in interest rates, it’s doubtful any changes to the CCCFA will unleash a massive rush of home buyers. Photo: Lynn GrievesonTL;DR: The six things that stood out to me in Aotearoa’s political economy around housing, poverty and climate on Monday, April 22 included:The Government making a ...
Sunday was a lazy day. I started watching Jack Tame on Q&A, the interviews are usually good for something to write about. Saying the things that the politicians won’t, but are quite possibly thinking. Things that are true and need to be extracted from between the lines.As you might know ...
In our Weekly Roundup last week we covered news from Auckland Transport that the WX1 Western Express is going to get an upgrade next year with double decker electric buses. As part of the announcement, AT also said “Since we introduced the WX1 Western Express last November we have seen ...
TL;DR: The six key events to watch in Aotearoa-NZ’s political economy in the week to April 29 include:PM Christopher Luxon is scheduled to hold a post-Cabinet news conference at 4 pm today. Stats NZ releases its statutory report on Census 2023 tomorrow.Finance Minister Nicola Willis delivers a pre-Budget speech at ...
A listing of 29 news and opinion articles we found interesting and shared on social media during the past week: Sun, April 14, 2024 thru Sat, April 20, 2024. Story of the week Our story of the week hinges on these words from the abstract of a fresh academic ...
The ability of the private sector to quickly establish major new projects making use of the urban and natural environment is to be supercharged by the new National-led Government. Yesterday it introduced to Parliament one of its most significant reforms, the Fast Track Approvals Bill. The Government says this will ...
This is a column to say thank you. So many of have been in touch since Mum died to say so many kind and thoughtful things. You’re wonderful, all of you. You’ve asked how we’re doing, how Dad’s doing. A little more realisation each day, of the irretrievable finality of ...
Identifying the engine type in your car is crucial for various reasons, including maintenance, repairs, and performance upgrades. Knowing the specific engine model allows you to access detailed technical information, locate compatible parts, and make informed decisions about modifications. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a step-by-step approach to ...
Introduction: The allure of racing is undeniable. The thrill of speed, the roar of engines, and the exhilaration of competition all contribute to the allure of this adrenaline-driven sport. For those who yearn to experience the pinnacle of racing, becoming a race car driver is the ultimate dream. However, the ...
Introduction Automobiles have become ubiquitous in modern society, serving as a primary mode of transportation and a symbol of economic growth and personal mobility. With countless vehicles traversing roads and highways worldwide, it begs the question: how many cars are there in the world? Determining the precise number is a ...
Maintaining a safe and reliable vehicle requires regular inspections. Whether it’s a routine maintenance checkup or a safety inspection, knowing how long the process will take can help you plan your day accordingly. This article delves into the factors that influence the duration of a car inspection and provides an ...
Mazda Motor Corporation, commonly known as Mazda, is a Japanese multinational automaker headquartered in Fuchu, Aki District, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. The company was founded in 1920 as the Toyo Cork Kogyo Co., Ltd., and began producing vehicles in 1931. Mazda is primarily known for its production of passenger cars, but ...
Your car battery is an essential component that provides power to start your engine, operate your electrical systems, and store energy. Over time, batteries can weaken and lose their ability to hold a charge, which can lead to starting problems, power failures, and other issues. Replacing your battery before it ...
In most states, you cannot register a car without a valid driver’s license. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. Exceptions to the RuleIf you are under 18 years old: In some states, you can register a car in your name even if you do not ...
Mazda, a Japanese automotive manufacturer with a rich history of innovation and engineering excellence, has emerged as a formidable player in the global car market. Known for its reputation of producing high-quality, fuel-efficient, and driver-oriented vehicles, Mazda has consistently garnered praise from industry experts and consumers alike. In this article, ...
Struts are an essential part of a car’s suspension system. They are responsible for supporting the weight of the car and damping the oscillations of the springs. Struts are typically made of steel or aluminum and are filled with hydraulic fluid. How Do Struts Work? Struts work by transferring the ...
Car registration is a mandatory process that all vehicle owners must complete annually. This process involves registering your car with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and paying an associated fee. The registration process ensures that your vehicle is properly licensed and insured, and helps law enforcement and other authorities ...
Zoom is a video conferencing service that allows you to share your screen, webcam, and audio with other participants. In addition to sharing your own audio, you can also share the audio from your computer with other participants. This can be useful for playing music, sharing presentations with audio, or ...
Building your own computer can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to get a high-performance machine tailored to your specific needs. However, it also requires careful planning and execution, and one of the most important factors to consider is the time it will take. The exact time it takes to ...
Sleep mode is a power-saving state that allows your computer to quickly resume operation without having to boot up from scratch. This can be useful if you need to step away from your computer for a short period of time but don’t want to shut it down completely. There are ...
Introduction Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) has revolutionized the field of translation by harnessing the power of technology to assist human translators in their work. This innovative approach combines specialized software with human expertise to improve the efficiency, accuracy, and consistency of translations. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the ...
In today’s digital age, mobile devices have become an indispensable part of our daily lives. Among the vast array of portable computing options available, iPads and tablet computers stand out as two prominent contenders. While both offer similar functionalities, there are subtle yet significant differences between these two devices. This ...
A computer is an electronic device that can be programmed to carry out a set of instructions. The basic components of a computer are the processor, memory, storage, input devices, and output devices. The Processor The processor, also known as the central processing unit (CPU), is the brain of the ...
Voice Memos is a convenient app on your iPhone that allows you to quickly record and store audio snippets. These recordings can be useful for a variety of purposes, such as taking notes, capturing ideas, or recording interviews. While you can listen to your voice memos on your iPhone, you ...
Laptop screens are essential for interacting with our devices and accessing information. However, when lines appear on the screen, it can be frustrating and disrupt productivity. Understanding the underlying causes of these lines is crucial for finding effective solutions. Types of Screen Lines Horizontal lines: Also known as scan ...
Right-clicking is a common and essential computer operation that allows users to access additional options and settings. While most desktop computers have dedicated right-click buttons on their mice, laptops often do not have these buttons due to space limitations. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on how to right-click ...
Powering up and shutting down your ASUS laptop is an essential task for any laptop user. Locating the power button can sometimes be a hassle, especially if you’re new to ASUS laptops. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on where to find the power button on different ASUS laptop ...
Dell laptops are renowned for their reliability, performance, and versatility. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just someone who needs a reliable computing device, a Dell laptop can meet your needs. However, if you’re new to Dell laptops, you may be wondering how to get started. In this comprehensive ...
Two-thirds of the country think that “New Zealand’s economy is rigged to advantage the rich and powerful”. They also believe that “New Zealand needs a strong leader to take the country back from the rich and powerful”. These are just two of a handful of stunning new survey results released ...
In today’s digital world, screenshots have become an indispensable tool for communication and documentation. Whether you need to capture an important email, preserve a website page, or share an error message, screenshots allow you to quickly and easily preserve digital information. If you’re an Asus laptop user, there are several ...
A factory reset restores your Gateway laptop to its original factory settings, erasing all data, apps, and personalizations. This can be necessary to resolve software issues, remove viruses, or prepare your laptop for sale or transfer. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to factory reset your Gateway laptop: Method 1: ...
“You talking about me?”The neoliberal denigration of the past was nowhere more unrelenting than in its depiction of the public service. The Post Office and the Railways were held up as being both irremediably inefficient and scandalously over-manned. Playwright Roger Hall’s “Glide Time” caricatures were presented as accurate depictions of ...
Roger Partridge writes – When the Coalition Government took office last October, it inherited a country on a precipice. With persistent inflation, decades of insipid productivity growth and crises in healthcare, education, housing and law and order, it is no exaggeration to suggest New Zealand’s first-world status was ...
Rob MacCulloch writes – In 2022, the Curriculum Centre at the Ministry of Education employed 308 staff, according to an Official Information Request. Earlier this week it was announced 202 of those staff were being cut. When you look up “The New Zealand Curriculum” on the Ministry of ...
Chris Bishop’s bill has stirred up a hornets nest of opposition. Photo: Lynn Grieveson for The KākāTL;DR: The six things that stood out to me in Aotearoa’s political economy around housing, poverty and climate from the last day included:A crescendo of opposition to the Government’s Fast Track Approvals Bill is ...
Monday left me brokenTuesday, I was through with hopingWednesday, my empty arms were openThursday, waiting for love, waiting for loveThe end of another week that left many of us asking WTF? What on earth has NZ gotten itself into and how on earth could people have voluntarily signed up for ...
Hello! Here comes the Saturday edition of More Than A Feilding, catching you up on the past week’s editions.State of humanity, 20242024, it feels, keeps presenting us with ever more challenges, ever more dismay.Do you give up yet? It seems to ask.No? How about this? Or this?How about this?Full story Share ...
Determining the hardest sport in the world is a subjective matter, as the difficulty level can vary depending on individual abilities, physical attributes, and experience. However, based on various factors including physical demands, technical skills, mental fortitude, and overall accomplishment, here is an exploration of some of the most challenging ...
The allure of sport transcends age, culture, and geographical boundaries. It captivates hearts, ignites passions, and provides unparalleled entertainment. Behind the spectacle, however, lies a fascinating world of financial investment and expenditure. Among the vast array of competitive pursuits, one question looms large: which sport carries the hefty title of ...
Introduction Pickleball, a rapidly growing paddle sport, has captured the hearts and imaginations of millions around the world. Its blend of tennis, badminton, and table tennis elements has made it a favorite among players of all ages and skill levels. As the sport’s popularity continues to surge, the question on ...
Abstract: Soccer, the global phenomenon captivating millions worldwide, has a rich history that spans centuries. Its origins trace back to ancient civilizations, but the modern version we know and love emerged through a complex interplay of cultural influences and innovations. This article delves into the fascinating journey of soccer’s evolution, ...
Tinting car windows offers numerous benefits, including enhanced privacy, reduced glare, UV protection, and a more stylish look for your vehicle. However, the cost of window tinting can vary significantly depending on several factors. This article provides a comprehensive guide to help you understand how much you can expect to ...
The pungent smell of gasoline in your car can be an alarming and potentially dangerous problem. Not only is the odor unpleasant, but it can also indicate a serious issue with your vehicle’s fuel system. In this article, we will explore the various reasons why your car may smell like ...
Tree sap can be a sticky, unsightly mess on your car’s exterior. It can be difficult to remove, but with the right techniques and products, you can restore your car to its former glory. Understanding Tree Sap Tree sap is a thick, viscous liquid produced by trees to seal wounds ...
The amount of paint needed to paint a car depends on a number of factors, including the size of the car, the number of coats you plan to apply, and the type of paint you are using. In general, you will need between 1 and 2 gallons of paint for ...
Jump-starting a car is a common task that can be performed even in adverse weather conditions like rain. However, safety precautions and proper techniques are crucial to avoid potential hazards. This comprehensive guide will provide detailed instructions on how to safely jump a car in the rain, ensuring both your ...
Graham Adams writes about the $55m media fund — When Patrick Gower was asked by Mike Hosking last week what he would say to the many Newstalk ZB callers who allege the Labour government bribed media with $55 million of taxpayers’ money via the Public Interest Journalism Fund — and ...
Note: this blog post has been put together over the course of the week I followed the happenings at the conference virtually. Should recordings of the Great Debates and possibly Union Symposia mentioned below, be released sometime after the conference ends, I'll include links to the ones I participated in. ...
The following was my submission made on the “Fast Track Approvals Bill”. This potential law will give three Ministers unchecked powers, un-paralled since the days of Robert Muldoon’s “Think Big” projects.The submission is written a bit tongue-in-cheek. But it’s irreverent because the FTAB is in itself not worthy of respect. ...
One Could Reduce Child Poverty At No Fiscal CostFollowing the Richardson/Shipley 1990 ‘redesign of the welfare state’ – which eliminated the universal Family Benefit and doubled the rate of child poverty – various income supplements for families have been added, the best known being ‘Working for Families’, introduced in 2005. ...
Buzz from the Beehive A few days ago, Point of Order suggested the media must be musing “on why Melissa is mute”. Our article reported that people working in the beleaguered media industry have cause to yearn for a minister as busy as Melissa Lee’s ministerial colleagues and we drew ...
It appears Nicola Willis is about to pull the rug out from under the feet of local communities still dealing with the aftermath of last year’s severe weather, and local councils relying on funding to build back from these disasters. ...
The Government is making short-sighted changes to the Resource Management Act (RMA) that will take away environmental protection in favour of short-term profits, Labour’s environment spokesperson Rachel Brooking said today. ...
Labour welcomes the release of the report into the North Island weather events and looks forward to working with the Government to ensure that New Zealand is as prepared as it can be for the next natural disaster. ...
The Labour Party has called for the New Zealand Government to recognise Palestine, as a material step towards progressing the two-State solution needed to achieve a lasting peace in the region. ...
Some of our country’s most important work, stopping the sexual exploitation of children and violent extremism could go along with staff on the frontline at ports and airports. ...
The Government’s Fast Track Approvals Bill will give projects such as new coal mines a ‘get out of jail free’ card to wreak havoc on the environment, Labour Leader Chris Hipkins said today. ...
Cuts to frontline hospital staff are not only a broken election promise, it shows the reckless tax cuts have well and truly hit the frontline of the health system, says Labour Health spokesperson Ayesha Verrall. ...
The Green Party has joined the call for public submissions on the fast-track legislation to be extended after the Ombudsman forced the Government to release the list of organisations invited to apply just hours before submissions close. ...
New Zealand’s good work at reducing climate emissions for three years in a row will be undone by the National government’s lack of ambition and scrapping programmes that were making a difference, Labour Party climate spokesperson Megan Woods said today. ...
More essential jobs could be on the chopping block, this time Ministry of Education staff on the school lunches team are set to find out whether they're in line to lose their jobs. ...
The Government is trying to bring in a law that will allow Ministers to cut corners and kill off native species, Labour environment spokesperson Rachel Brooking said. ...
Cancelling urgently needed new Cook Strait ferries and hiking the cost of public transport for many Kiwis so that National can announce the prospect of another tunnel for Wellington is not making good choices, Labour Transport Spokesperson Tangi Utikere said. ...
A laundry list of additional costs for Tāmaki Makarau Auckland shows the Minister for the city is not delivering for the people who live there, says Labour Auckland Issues spokesperson Shanan Halbert. ...
The Green Party has today launched a step-by-step guide to help New Zealanders make their voice heard on the Government’s democracy dodging and anti-environment fast track legislation. ...
The National Government’s proposed changes to the Residential Tenancies Act will mean tenants can be turfed from their homes by landlords with little notice, Labour housing spokesperson Kieran McAnulty said. ...
Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson is calling on all parties to support a common-sense change that’s great for the planet and great for consumers after her member’s bill was drawn from the ballot today. ...
A significant milestone has been reached in the fight to strike an anti-Pasifika and unfair law from the country’s books after Teanau Tuiono’s members’ bill passed its first reading. ...
New Zealand has today missed the opportunity to uphold the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment, says James Shaw after his member’s bill was voted down in its first reading. ...
Today’s advice from the Climate Change Commission paints a sobering reality of the challenge we face in combating climate change, especially in light of recent Government policy announcements. ...
Minister for Disability Issues Penny Simmonds appears to have delayed a report back to Cabinet on the progress New Zealand is making against international obligations for disabled New Zealanders. ...
The Government’s newly announced review of methane emissions reduction targets hints at its desire to delay Aotearoa New Zealand’s urgent transition to a climate safe future, the Green Party said. ...
The Government must commit to the Maitai School building project for students with high and complex needs, to ensure disabled students from the top of the South Island have somewhere to learn. ...
Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey and his Government colleagues have made a meal of their mental health commitments, showing how flimsy their efforts to champion the issue truly are, says Labour Mental Health spokesperson Ingrid Leary. ...
Recreational catch limits will be reduced in areas of Fiordland and the Chatham Islands to help keep those fisheries healthy and sustainable, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. The lower recreational daily catch limits for a range of finfish and shellfish species caught in the Fiordland Marine Area and ...
Energy Minister Simeon Brown has welcomed an important milestone in New Zealand’s hydrogen future, with the opening of the country’s first network of hydrogen refuelling stations in Wiri. “I want to congratulate the team at Hiringa Energy and its partners K one W one (K1W1), Mitsui & Co New Zealand ...
The coalition Government is delivering on its commitment to improve resource management laws and give greater certainty to consent applicants, with a Bill to amend the Resource Management Act (RMA) expected to be introduced to Parliament next month. RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop has today outlined the first RMA Amendment ...
Overseas models for regulating the oil and gas sector, including their decommissioning regimes, are being carefully scrutinised as a potential template for New Zealand’s own sector, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. The Coalition Government is focused on rebuilding investor confidence in New Zealand’s energy sector as it looks to strengthen ...
Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell has today released the Report of the Government Inquiry into the response to the North Island Severe Weather Events. “The report shows that New Zealand’s emergency management system is not fit-for-purpose and there are some significant gaps we need to address,” Mr Mitchell ...
Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith is today travelling to Europe where he’ll update the United Nations Human Rights Council on the Government’s work to restore law and order. “Attending the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva provides us with an opportunity to present New Zealand’s human rights progress, priorities, and challenges, while ...
Associate Agriculture Minister, Mark Patterson, formally reopened the world’s largest wool processing facility today in Awatoto, Napier, following a $50 million rebuild and refurbishment project. “The reopening of this facility will significantly lift the economic opportunities available to New Zealand’s wool sector, which already accounts for 20 per cent of ...
Hon Andrew Bayly, Minister for Small Business and Manufacturing At the Southland Otago Regional Engineering Collective (SOREC) Summit, 18 April, Dunedin Ngā mihi nui, Ko Andrew Bayly aho, Ko Whanganui aho Good Afternoon and thank you for inviting me to open your summit today. I am delighted ...
The Government is delivering on its commitment to bring back the Three Strikes legislation, Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee announced today. “Our Government is committed to restoring law and order and enforcing appropriate consequences on criminals. We are making it clear that repeat serious violent or sexual offending is not ...
Foreign Minister Winston Peters has today announced four new diplomatic appointments for New Zealand’s overseas missions. “Our diplomats have a vital role in maintaining and protecting New Zealand’s interests around the world,” Mr Peters says. “I am pleased to announce the appointment of these senior diplomats from the ...
New Zealand is contributing NZ$7 million to support communities affected by severe food insecurity and other urgent humanitarian needs in Ethiopia and Somalia, Foreign Minister Rt Hon Winston Peters announced today. “Over 21 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance across Ethiopia, with a further 6.9 million people ...
Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Paul Goldsmith is congratulating Mataaho Collective for winning the Golden Lion for best participant in the main exhibition at the Venice Biennale. "Congratulations to the Mataaho Collective for winning one of the world's most prestigious art prizes at the Venice Biennale. “It is good ...
The Government is reforming financial services to improve access to home loans and other lending, and strengthen customer protections, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly and Housing Minister Chris Bishop announced today. “Our coalition Government is committed to rebuilding the economy and making life simpler by cutting red tape. We are ...
“China remains a strong commercial opportunity for Kiwi exporters as Chinese businesses and consumers continue to value our high-quality safe produce,” Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says. Mr McClay has returned to New Zealand following visits to Beijing, Harbin and Shanghai where he met ministers, governors and mayors and engaged in trade and agricultural events with the New ...
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has completed a successful trip to Singapore, Thailand and the Philippines, deepening relationships and capitalising on opportunities. Mr Luxon was accompanied by a business delegation and says the choice of countries represents the priority the New Zealand Government places on South East Asia, and our relationships in ...
New Zealand is demonstrating its commitment to reducing global greenhouse emissions, and supporting clean energy transition in South East Asia, through a contribution of NZ$41 million (US$25 million) in climate finance to the Asian Development Bank (ADB)-led Energy Transition Mechanism (ETM). Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Climate Change Minister Simon Watts announced ...
The Government is today releasing a list of organisations who received letters about the Fast-track applications process, says RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop. “Recently Ministers and agencies have received a series of OIA requests for a list of organisations to whom I wrote with information on applying to have a ...
Attorney-General Judith Collins today announced the appointment of Wellington Barrister David Jonathan Boldt as a Judge of the High Court, and the Honourable Justice Matthew Palmer as a Judge of the Court of Appeal. Justice Boldt graduated with an LLB from Victoria University of Wellington in 1990, and also holds ...
Education Minister Erica Stanford will lead the New Zealand delegation at the 2024 International Summit on the Teaching Profession (ISTP) held in Singapore. The delegation includes representatives from the Post Primary Teachers’ Association (PPTA) Te Wehengarua and the New Zealand Educational Institute (NZEI) Te Riu Roa. The summit is co-hosted ...
A stopbank upgrade project in Tairawhiti partly funded by the Government has increased flood resilience for around 7000ha of residential and horticultural land so far, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says. Mr Jones today attended a dawn service in Gisborne to mark the end of the first stage of the ...
Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters will represent the Government at Anzac Day commemorations on the Gallipoli Peninsula next week and engage with senior representatives of the Turkish government in Istanbul. “The Gallipoli campaign is a defining event in our history. It will be a privilege to share the occasion ...
Science, Innovation and Technology and Defence Minister Judith Collins will next week attend the OECD Science and Technology Ministerial conference in Paris and Anzac Day commemorations in Belgium. “Science, innovation and technology have a major role to play in rebuilding our economy and achieving better health, environmental and social outcomes ...
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon held a bilateral meeting today with the President of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The Prime Minister was accompanied by MP Paulo Garcia, the first Filipino to be elected to a legislature outside the Philippines. During today’s meeting, Prime Minister Luxon and President Marcos Jr discussed opportunities to ...
The Government has announced that $20 million in funding will be made available to Westport to fund much needed flood protection around the town. This measure will significantly improve the resilience of the community, says Local Government Minister Simeon Brown. “The Westport community has already been allocated almost $3 million ...
The Government is proud to support the first ever Repco Supercars Championship event in Taupō as up to 70,000 motorsport fans attend the Taupō International Motorsport Park this weekend, says Economic Development Minister Melissa Lee. “Anticipation for the ITM Taupō Super400 is huge, with tickets and accommodation selling out weeks ...
Local Government Minister Simeon Brown has announced an increase to the Rates Rebate Scheme, putting money back into the pockets of low-income homeowners. “The coalition Government is committed to bringing down the cost of living for New Zealanders. That includes targeted support for those Kiwis who are doing things tough, such ...
The Coalition Government is investing in a project to boost survival rates of New Zealand mussels and grow the industry, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones has announced. “This project seeks to increase the resilience of our mussels and significantly boost the sector’s productivity,” Mr Jones says. “The project - ...
Benefit figures released today underscore the importance of the Government’s plan to rebuild the economy and have 50,000 fewer people on Jobseeker Support, Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston says. “Benefit numbers are still significantly higher than when National was last in government, when there was about 70,000 fewer ...
The Government’s commitment to doubling New Zealand’s renewable energy capacity is backed by new data showing that clean energy has helped the country reach its lowest annual gross emissions since 1999, Climate Change Minister Simon Watts says. New Zealand’s latest Greenhouse Gas Inventory (1990-2022) published today, shows gross emissions fell ...
The Government is bringing the earthquake-prone building review forward, with work to start immediately, and extending the deadline for remediations by four years, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says. “Our Government is focused on rebuilding the economy. A key part of our plan is to cut red tape that ...
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and his Thai counterpart, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, have today agreed that New Zealand and the Kingdom of Thailand will upgrade the bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership by 2026. “New Zealand and Thailand have a lot to offer each other. We have a strong mutual desire to build ...
RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop and Transport Minister Simeon Brown have today announced the Coalition Government’s intention to extend port coastal permits for a further 20 years, providing port operators with certainty to continue their operations. “The introduction of the Resource Management Act in 1991 required ports to obtain coastal ...
Today’s announcement that inflation is down to 4 per cent is encouraging news for Kiwis, but there is more work to be done - underlining the importance of the Government’s plan to get the economy back on track, acting Finance Minister Chris Bishop says. “Inflation is now at 4 per ...
Refreshed health guidance released today will help parents and schools make informed decisions about whether their child needs to be in school, addressing one of the key issues affecting school attendance, says Associate Education Minister David Seymour. In recent years, consistently across all school terms, short-term illness or medical reasons ...
Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones is streamlining high-level oceans management while maintaining a focus on supporting the sector’s role in the export-led recovery of the economy. “I am working to realise the untapped potential of our fishing and aquaculture sector. To achieve that we need to be smarter with ...
Associate Agriculture Minister Mark Patterson is speaking at the International Wool Textile Organisation Congress in Adelaide, promoting New Zealand wool, and outlining the coalition Government’s support for the revitalisation the sector. "New Zealand’s wool exports reached $400 million in the year to 30 June 2023, and the coalition Government ...
The Government is making legislative changes to make it easier for new early learning services to be established, and for existing services to operate, Associate Education Minister David Seymour says. The changes involve repealing the network approval provisions that apply when someone wants to establish a new early learning service, ...
Changes to the Resource Management Act will align consenting for coal mining to other forms of mining to reduce barriers that are holding back economic development, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. “The inconsistent treatment of coal mining compared with other extractive activities is burdensome red tape that fails to acknowledge ...
Trade, Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay has concluded productive discussions with ministerial counterparts in Beijing today, in support of the New Zealand-China trade and economic relationship. “My meeting with Commerce Minister Wang Wentao reaffirmed the complementary nature of the bilateral trade relationship, with our Free Trade Agreement at its ...
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon today paid tribute to Singapore’s outgoing Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. Meeting in Singapore today immediately before Prime Minister Lee announced he was stepping down, Prime Minister Luxon warmly acknowledged his counterpart’s almost twenty years as leader, and the enduring legacy he has left for Singapore and South East ...
How will the recent wave of job cuts impact ethnic diversity in the media? In November last year, I was working a very busy day in the newsroom of a large online news site, interviewing whānau about their concerns over the imminent closure of one of the few puna reo ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ruth Knight, Researcher, Queensland University of Technology Have you ever felt sick at work? Perhaps you had food poisoning or the flu. Your belly hurt, or you felt tired, making it hard to concentrate and be productive. How likely would you be ...
Despite heavy criticism and an ongoing select committee process, the Police Minister says the Government will forge ahead with a ban on gang patches. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sam Whiting, Lecturer – Creative Industries, University of South Australia Shutterstock Everyone has a favourite band, or a favourite composer, or a favourite song. There is some music which speaks to you, deeply; and other music which might be the current ...
A new survey says ‘outlook not great’ for those charged with building infrastructure, while RMA changes delight farmers and depress environmentalists, writes Anna Rawhiti-Connell in this excerpt from The Bulletin, The Spinoff’s morning news round-up. To receive The Bulletin in full each weekday, sign up here. First RMA changes announced ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Olli Hellmann, Associate Professor of Political Science, University of Waikato Getty Images When New Zealanders commemorate Anzac Day on April 25, it’s not only to honour the soldiers who lost their lives in World War I and subsequent conflicts, but also ...
A leaked document shows the Canterbury/Waitaha arm of health agency Te Whatu Ora is scurrying to save $13.3 million by July. The “financial sustainability target”, which was “allocated” to Waitaha, is consistent with what’s happening in other districts, says Sarah Dalton, executive director of the Association of Salaried Medical Specialists. ...
A look at the state of the previous government’s affordable housing scheme, and what could come next.Remind me: What’s KiwiBuild again?First announced in 2012, KiwiBuild was a flagship policy of the Labour Party heading into both its 2014 and 2017 election campaigns. With Jacinda Ardern as prime minister, ...
Labour in opposition will be shocked to learn which party had six years in power but squandered any chance to make real change. Grant Robertson’s valedictory speech was a predictably entertaining trip down memory lane. The acid-tongued incoming Otago University chancellor administered a sick burn to the coalition government. He ...
The following interview with former Green Party MP Sue Kedgley came about because she features in the new memoir Hine Toa by activist Ngāhuia te Awekōtuku; the two knew each other at the University of Auckland in the early 70s, when they were both took on leadership roles in the ...
Taiwan’s semiconductor industry is seen some as its ‘silicon shield’ against invasion – but how will overseas expansion affect that protection? The post The state of Taiwan’s silicon shield appeared first on Newsroom. ...
There’s relief for building owners bending under the weight of earthquake strengthening rules – and costs – that came into force seven years ago. Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk has announced a scheduled 2027 review of the earthquake-prone building regulations will now start this year. Owners will also get ...
Opinion: It has been announced that nine percent of roles at Oranga Tamariki will be disestablished, presumably to help fund the tax cuts promised by the coalition Government. I am reminded of the graphics used to illustrate pandemic events, where five thousand people are standing in a field and then ...
After more than two sleepless days, running through savage terrain, Greig Hamilton didn’t know if he was going to finish one of the most gruelling psychological assaults in sport. He was metres away from the finish line, a yellow gate made famous in a Netflix documentary; a race he’d dreamed ...
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COMMENTARY:By Murray Horton New Zealand needs to get tough with Israel. It’s not as if we haven’t done so before. When NZ authorities busted a Mossad operation in Auckland 20 years ago, the government didn’t say: “Oh well, Israel has the right to defend itself.” No, it arrested, prosecuted, ...
NEWSMAKERS:By Vijay Narayan, news director of FijiVillage Blessed to be part of the University of Fiji (UniFiji) faculty to continue to teach and mentor those who want to join our noble profession, and to stand for truth and justice for the people of the country. I was privileged to ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter Martin, Visiting Fellow, Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University Three weeks from now, some of us will be presented with a mountain of budget papers, and just about all of us will get to hear about them on radio, ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dan Lowry, Ice Sheet & Climate Modeller, GNS Science Hugh Chittock/Antarctica New Zealand, CC BY-SA As the climate warms and Antarctica’s glaciers and ice sheets melt, the resulting rise in sea level has the potential to displace hundreds of millions of ...
The government's plan to reintroduce a three strikes regime is being strongly opposed by lawyers, who argue there is no evidence it reduces crime or helps people rehabilitate. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dan Jerker B. Svantesson, Professor specialising in Internet law, Bond University Do Australian courts have the right to decide what foreign citizens, located overseas, view online on a foreign-owned platform? Anyone inclined to answer “yes” to this question should perhaps also ask ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Giovanni E Ferreira, NHMRC Emerging Leader Research Fellow, Institute of Musculoskeletal Health, University of Sydney Last week in a post on X, owner of the platform Elon Musk recommended people look into disc replacement if they’re experiencing severe neck or back pain. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By David Hayward, Emeritus Professor of Public Policy, RMIT University anek.soowannaphoom/Shutterstock NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey caught the headlines yesterday, courtesy of a blistering speech condemning the latest GST carve-up. New South Wales, he claimed, would be A$11.9 billion worse off over the ...
While police are "broadly in favour", the government's proposed anti-gang laws are facing pushback from lawyers, rights groups and former gang members. ...
While police are "broadly in favour", the government's proposed anti-gang laws are facing pushback from lawyers, rights groups and former gang members. ...
By Miriam Zarriga in Port Moresby Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has arrived at Kokoda Station, Northern province, at the start of his state visit to Papua New Guinea. Both Albanese and Prime Minister James Marape will meet with the locals and the Northern Provincial government before they begin their ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Chris Wallace, Professor, School of Politics Economics & Society, Faculty of Business Government & Law, University of Canberra Shutterstock An important principle was invoked by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese last week in defence of the government’s Future Made in Australia industry ...
By Patrick Decloitre, RNZ Pacific correspondent French Pacific desk Security forces reinforcements were sent from France ahead of two rival marches in the capital Nouméa today, at the same time and only two streets away one from the other. One march, called by Union Calédonienne party (a component of the ...
A poll last August found that just 16% of New Zealanders oppose bringing back the ‘Three Strikes’ law. The nationwide poll of 1,000 New Zealanders was commissioned by Family First NZ and carried out by Curia Market Research. ...
The solo show from Ana Scotney is both sprawling and intimate, and a must-see, writes Mad Chapman. In the opening moments of Scattergun: After the Death of Rūaumoko, writer and performer Ana Scotney lays out the groundwork, literally. Silently moving around the square stage, Scotney is not so much dancing ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kate Burridge, Professor of Linguistics, Monash University Who makes the words? Why are trees called trees and why are shoes called shoes and who makes the names? – Elliot, age 5, Eltham, Victoria Good question Elliot! Let’s start with ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stephen Duckett, Honorary Enterprise Professor, School of Population and Global Health, and Department of General Practice and Primary Care, The University of Melbourne at amRawpixel.com/Shutterstock Roles of health professionals are still unfortunately often stuck in the past. That is, before the ...
COMMENTARY:By Malcolm Evans Last week’s leaked New York Times staff directive, as to what words can and cannot be used to describe the carnage Israel is raining on Palestinians, is proof positive, since those reports are published verbatim here in New Zealand, that our understanding of the conflict is ...
In the case of New Zealand, the results confirm that there is no popular support for the vicious austerity program being imposed by the National Party-led government, which is backed in all fundamental respects by the opposition Labour Party. ...
The ‘Vampire’ singer has never visited our part of the world, but that might all be about to change. We assess the evidence.Olivia Rodrigo’s Guts World Tour is pulling in massive crowds as it whips around the US and Europe, even helping to catapult regular supporting act Chappell Roan ...
Testing of drinking water in rural Canterbury over the weekend by Greenpeace revealed that several public town supplies were reaching levels of nitrate above 5 mg/L - the threshold which a growing body of scientific evidence has linked to increased ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rohan Fisher, Information Technology for Development Researcher, Charles Darwin University It may come as a surprise to hear 2023 was Australia’s biggest bushfire season in more than a decade. Fires burned across an area eight times as big as the 2019–20 Black ...
Responding to the Government’s announcement of changes to resource management laws, Taxpayers’ Union Executive Director, Jordan Williams, said: “These changes are a step in the right direction in terms of removing ideological and unworkable ...
More than two years after the Human Rights Council called for the establishment of a national human rights commission, such a body has yet to be formed. ...
Comment:An emergency management system with wide variations in performance, significant capability gaps, funding shortfalls and above all a setup that is not meeting the needs of New Zealanders at times of crisis. The Government’s inquiry into the response to Cyclone Gabrielle and other severe weather events in the North ...
Welcome to the whirring wonders of one brain trying to align its actions with its beliefs within a system it thinks is evil. My brain has been spiralling in a woke conundrum ever since I found out a bookshop I’ve never been to was shutting down. Good Books, a bookshop ...
We repeat our call for criminal justice policy to be based on evidence, something the three strikes regime neglects to recognise – with no evidence that it either reduces crime or assists with rehabilitation. ...
By Koroi Hawkins, RNZ Pacific editor in Honiara With only four more seats in the 50-member Parliament yet to be officially declared, there is no outright winner in the Solomon Islands elections. As of Monday, the two largest blocs in the winner’s circle, independents and the incumbent Prime Minister Manasseh ...
Two/fiftyseven is a multi-purpose space hidden in the heart of Wellington that is paving a way for sustainable building and responsible landlording in Aotearoa and beyond.By 2060 the world is predicted to double its entire building stock, which equates to building an entire New York City every 34 days, ...
Popstars wasn’t just a reality television revolution, it was also a huge moment for Y2K fashion.It’s 25 years since girl group TrueBliss was formed on New Zealand national television, breaking new ground for both the reality television industry and the shiny clothing industry. With the first episode on NZ ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Christopher Pepping, Associate Professor in Clinical Psychology, Griffith University Marvin / Shutterstock Are all single people insecure? When we think about people who have been single for a long time, we may assume it’s because single people have insecurities that make ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By William Geary, Lecturer in Quantitative Ecology & Biodiversity Conservation, The University of Melbourne Trismegist san, Shutterstock Landscapes that have escaped fire for decades or centuries tend to harbour vital structures for wildlife, such as tree hollows and large logs. But these ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rebecca Gladstone-Gallagher, Lecturer in Marine Science, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau Shutterstock/S Curtis Why are we crossing ecological boundaries that affect Earth’s fundamental life-supporting capacity? Is it because we don’t have enough information about how ecosystems respond to change? Or ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Matthew Crocker, PhD Student in Economics, Deakin University Here’s something for the board of the Reserve Bank of Australia to ponder as it meets next month to set interest rates. It has pushed up rates on 13 occasions since it began its ...
As part of our series exploring how New Zealanders live and our relationship with money, a charity director outlines how she’s saving for retirement and buying secondhand. Want to be part of The Cost of Being? Fill out the questionnaire here.Gender: Female Age: 45 Ethnicity: Pākehā Role: Charity director, mum of ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sophie Yates, Research Fellow, Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University Many Australians with disability feel on the edge of a precipice right now. Recommendations from the disability royal commission and the NDIS review were released late last year. Now a ...
It’s been called a failed experiment and a judicial straightjacket but the government says the revised three strikes law will be a more workable regime, writes Anna Rawhiti-Connell in this excerpt from The Bulletin, The Spinoff’s morning news round-up. To receive The Bulletin in full each weekday, sign up here. Three ...
New Zealand’s Palestinian community and Palestinian Youth Aotearoa are voicing alarm and disappointment with the lack of factual rigour present during the Israeli Ambassador’s appearance as a guest on TVNZ’s Q+A With Jack Tame Sunday (21/04). ...
Both ACT leader David Seymour, who played a key role in drawing up the assisted dying law, and hospice leaders say it's time the legislation was changed. ...
Public submissions on proposed gang control laws are being heard today. Rising gang membership has been cited as rationale for a crackdown – but what do we actually know about how many people belong to gangs in New Zealand?What’s all this then?A rise in the number of gang ...
Climate activists are setting their sights on an unpopular target, and hoping to bring lots of the public with them. It’s hard to miss the Majestic Princess: the enormous cruise ship, docked at Auckland’s Prince’s Wharf, looms over the nearby buildings. The ship, which can fit nearly 6,000 people, ...
Opinion: Making sure developers, local and central government, and landowners are all on the same page makes sense The post A new kind of city deal appeared first on Newsroom. ...
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The following korero between Ngāhuia te Awekōtuku, author of the newly published memoir Hine Toa, one of the year’s most important books, and Dale Husband from e-tangata, was first published in October. It traverses her involvement with the activist group Ngā Tamatoa at Auckland University in the early 1970s, her ...
In the 16 years since it was bought by the government for $690 million, KiwiRail has had several overhauls and turnaround plans worth billions of dollars. Its ambitions as a successful, profitable operator of tourism, freight and ferries have often been derailed by disasters from earthquakes to cyclones, mine explosions ...
Who listened to Nicole Foss with Kim Hill Saturday morning? Kim got scratchy as her future dreams and aspirations were explained away, poor dear.
http://www.radionz.co.nz/national/programmes/saturday/audio/2513651/nicole-foss-global-finance-and-peak-oil.asx
That’s the issue with hill, when she’s interested in the subject she’s top of the game but when it’s not in her interest zone she gets very unprofessional starving listeners of viewpoints she’s not up for hearing.
Thanks Bored for the link
Really interesting interview! She’s saying in a light academic easy listening way the same message as R Atack,in his abrasive way and AFewKnowTheTruth have been batting on with for a long time!
Primary Points:
1. 50% of oil left but it’s lower quality stuff, harder to refine and increasingly more and more difficult to access and get out This means a decline in available oil due to declining EROEI (Energy return on energy invested) This mean going into a permanent supply decline probable beginning this year. Decline has already set in but has been covered so far by new discoveries but these are are only at band aid level.
2. The fiat debt interest bearing money creation system depends on the infinite growth paradigm which is now sunk on the peak oil Peak and other resource decline plus a used up maxed out environment. Hence this money system has collapsed also due to the incredible amounts of debt incurred which cannot ever be repaid.
Human World– Money system— Physical resources. The money system is the interface between the two. The creation of the fiat interest bearing debt is a claim on future resource acquisition when the latter fails so does the former.
3. The era of globalised trade is doomed probably within the next 10 years or less and we will all have to begin relocalising.For the reason of higher and higher fuel costs. The era of lots of stuff will be over.
R. Heinberg The End of Growth review
Industrialized economies have grown most years since the mid-19th century. Globally, economic output per person increased tenfold between 1900 and 2000. Richard Heinberg says that this long run of economic growth is reaching an end owing to a number of factors: depletion of fossil fuels, minerals and fresh water; the escalating cost of industrial accidents and environmental disasters in the wake of global climate change; and financial disruptions due to the inability of our financial system to service “the enormous piles of government and private debt” generated over the past few decades.
link: http://www.energybulletin.net/stories/2012-03-23/are-we-coming-end-growth-era-review
“3. The era of globalised trade is doomed probably within the next 10 years or less and we will all have to begin relocalising.For the reason of higher and higher fuel costs. The era of lots of stuff will be over.”
I’m not quite sure what to make of these claims. Undoubtedly globalised trade will diminish, quite probably drastically, maybe as much as down to only 5-20% of it’s current amount, but trans-national trade has always existed and likely always will so long as nations exists and have excess things they can trade.
Agree. Trans-national trade will continue even if it is by sailing ship and steamer, as per the days of old.
But there will be big differences. For instance, this won’t simply be a matter of NZ having its iPad 3’s delivered on a steamer instead of via air-freight.
The complex, expensive supply networks and just in time logistics needed to put an iPad 3 together in the first place simply won’t be viable any more. Costs will go up, which means design complexity (specifications) will have to fall even as the retail price rises. Higher store prices combined with worker incomes falling in failing economies means far fewer units sold. (Peak-credit will exacerbate the situation). This economic calculation will feedback to Apple who will drastically change which products it pursues development of, which markets it decides to serve, and how it serves them.
Put another way – a lot of material stuff is going to gain real value and rarity status again, just like in the old days when people really treasured and looked after individual items they owned. The end of throw-away consumerism.
This is a gloat, gloat speak for yourself moment! 😀
In our family we’ve always done that – looked after our ‘stuff’. Even my mobile phone is years old, and was ‘old tech’ then – (not that I wouldn’t like a fancy one, but can’t afford it. )
Nuclear powered superfreuighters anyone
Trade has always existed but nation states haven’t been as dependent upon it as they are now. The amount of trade was far less because long distance trade is, without the cheap energy of fossil fuels, far too expensive to maintain.
One of the things I believe the energy gap of the future will drive is true costs becoming transparent and extremely localised. Which has the potential for the individual to be rid of “taxes” inherent in transfer costs within corporations (i.e if you understand the whole supply chain because it is short and visible you wont pay for anything other than what is explicit). In effect we will probably have much less income but will get a proportionally better return for it.
For those RWNJs I am describing a market as Adam Smith understood it without the distortion by “rentier” activities (i.e corporate transfer costs etc etc).
Actually, I thought Kim Hill was rather placid, indicating that perhaps she understood that what Nicole was saying was hard to refute.
Brewer attacks brown over the size of his mayoral office. When is Len going to grow a pair and expose this divisive supershity council The Nats designed that they thought Banks would be heading.
POAL is a great opportunity to get out there in a statesman like manner and show akl they’ve been shafted……the time is now, what are ya made of Len?
Brewers comments seem to fit in well with the attempts to curb local government, by central govt. This is simply a poor attempt to point score by Brewer, who one really cant have much time for, he is not a good councillor for AKL, but serves his purpose for the right.
Yes LB should really get a set…I can tell you that is not going to happen!
Did you hear our Prime Minister, this morning, championing “our proud record on nuclear disarmament…”?
The trailer for the 911 Toronto hearings video 3.5 minutes long and Max Keiser interviewing financial journalist Lars Schall, about his recently published investigation into insider trading around the 9-11 terrorist attack on show 266
Oh dear! Little Johnny is relegated to stalking Obama in the hotel gym:
http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/6635889/PM-relegated-as-Obama-lands-in-Seoul
I think i stayed there 10 years ago there was a strike and that was the only advailable rooms.
Anyway what surprised mer was ethere was a high level conference in the top of the hotel with shipley, japanese, etc. And i was able to get up to the conference room with out any securtity checkor being even questioned. Different time!
Key a gym junkie? Not that you can tell…
Seems more like an opportunist junkie?
Well said by our Hawaiien President following the disastrous U$$$$ economic model.
Thousands of unemployed UK construction workers on secret employers’ blacklist
highly illegal. UK police contributed information on activists and protestors to it. Private company was profiting from distributing the list.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w72a91uuCFY&feature=g-user-u&context=G27e2551UCGXQYbcTJ33Z59PAacBHzTyTJwXw3SukmF5Ouc5apcw8
Funny thing, back in the 80s after the Tour a number of us seemed to get rejected from any government job we applied for, did not even get the interview. I was always suspicious, who knows? Fortunately for me commerce worked out better and more financially rewarding.
“Look at me! Look at me! Look at ME!” Insecure much, Mr Key?
+1 lol “little man syndrome“
I think maybe all my comments are going into moderation this morning? Maybe not, just 2 comments in the give way post did.
For those interested in reading about Labor’s devastating loss in Queensland.
http://www.smh.com.au/opinion/political-news/losers-turn-on-bligh-who-fires-a-final-shot-20120325-1vsii.html
http://www.smh.com.au/opinion/political-news/labor-looks-down-the-barrel-after-queensland-rout-20120325-1vsj2.html
“Labor’s numbers are so small it must rely on the mercy of Mr Newman for it to retain official party status.”
While various arguments have been put forward as to the reasons for the loss, such as the rejection of a woman premier, the carbon tax, Rudd’s challenge to Gillard and Bligh’s turning from “nice” to “attack dog,” this stood out for me:
“Bligh did not tell Queenslanders before the last election that she intended a massive sell-off of state assets, and she and her colleagues implied such a thing wasn’t being contemplated. Then, in government, the sell-off went ahead, with Bligh arguing it was necessary for her state’s economy. The public did not forgive, and most observers believe it was a major reason for her downfall.”
It is all too easy to think that Labour must move to the right because voters are “so over” left wing values, when what what voters are in fact rejecting are parties that purport to stand for left wing values but do not.
I think its time for some in the Labour hierarchy to accept that it’s they who are over left wing values, not the rest of us.
Core voters and activists will not support a weak party which compromises on its own principles in order to pander to transient swing supporters.
Good point, Oz labor partys are fairly centrist and mostly go on branding and personalities, there’s not alot between them and liberals, the sell off was foolish, not required and without electoral mandate so she paid the price.
labor has been in 20 yrs in QLD and they just had some of their worst natural disasters. With the opposition getting it’s act together a perfect electoral storm prevailed.
In my experience there’s some truth to that.
When I read a blog post that anonymously uses phrases like “Both sides are scum” and “making a dick of himself and pathetically trying” it immediately diminishes in stature for me.
When comparing the general tone of that with this post, which is also politically critical but a more reasoned and reasonable tone, I know which one I respect more. Notably this author has chosen to identify themselves.
I agree. It can still be robust debate when you are up front and honest about who you are.
(I’ve posted my own blog on this but chosen to put it in full here to reduce nitpicking over linking. I undertsand that some people have good reasons to blog anonymously, but political commentary has enough suspicions about motive as it is without being cloaked.)
Oh god, not this again.
The Standard doesn’t have “anonymous blogging” as you like to imply, it has pseudonymous blogging. That is very different.
Go search and read others of Eddie’s posts and you will see the tone in them is often quite similar to the one that you are whining about. Similarly r0b’s posts have always had a similar tone, before and after he decided to start putting his real name on them.
It’s no different than if Cameron Slater were pseudonymous – his blog would still be a vile sewer. Attaching his name to it clearly hasn’t made him clean up his act.
I think an identity can make a significant difference to credibility (obviously it doesn’t make it credible, just lends more credibility).
I know I’ll probably get hammered again here, but if what I say is disliked or not, anything I comment or post I’d be prepared to say face to face to anyone.
I disagree with Whaleoil as much as I agree with him and his method of operation, but I find his blog far less deviously vitriolic than here – and there’s more freedom to say what you want there. In other words, there’s generally more shit here, so the sewer accusations are kinda weird.
You seem to be under the impression that when, for example, I am in face to face encounters, I do not call an individual, on occasion, a stupid fucking self-absorbed moron. I have. If that lowers their regard for me, I don’t care. They’re fucking morons.
On the single-digit occasions I’ve been to KB or WO or their equivalents, most of the epithets I’ve seen have been aimed at entire cultures or social groups rather than individuals. And without any moderation if someone crosses over into personal-safety issues. I’ll call you a dick to your face, but not your entire culture.
Posting under your given name doesn’t add to the argument, at all, ever. And, yes, I’m quite willing to call you a delusional fuckwit to your face as well.
Pete you are boring the most Bored person in the world. Dull dull dull dull….now whilst you are talking “scum” and a person “making a dick of himself” might I bring up a name you are familiar with? A Mr Peter Dunne, the man who wants to sell us down the river.
Oh ma dai! You’re proving his point, by being so abusive. You may find him dull (really, you usually say much worse than that to him.) I rarely agree with him, but on the other hand, the abuse here on the Standard is sometimes so incredibly foul, it’s obvious that Standardistas have huge issues with being disagreed with.
(I am keeping a mental note of every foul name I am called, and every bit of race and sex-based abuse handed to me.)
Who here has caught up with the latest scandal to hit the Torys in UK? The deputy Chancellor selling off time with the Prime Minister for “contributions”, and having private individuals “issues” to the Policy Committee for “consideration”. Democracy for sale……
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-17507447
I imagine that a large enough donation to any party would gain access to its leader. Regrettable, perhaps, but a fact of life. This is why various countries, including NZ, attempt to limit campaign spending.
The commentators are going hot and strong about our terrorism laws this morning on Radionz.
Annette King has highly exercised their minds.
Matthew Hooten distorted Annette King’s interview, and attempted to turn the tables by accusing Helen Clark of having had “an unethical, close working relationship with Howard Broad” and that she leaked knowledge of the meeting in question to the media before it had taken place. No evidence to back up such an absurd claim, and he did his usual shouting over the top of the two women, Josie Pagani and Kathryn Ryan. I found his allegations interesting given all the embarrassing “leaking” that has been occurring over the ACC/Pullar/Boag/Smith/Collins/Key affair.
Nat. Party panic mode is at full throttle methinks.
Says alot about Ryan and RNZ that they persist in having the badly beahaved boy hooten on, can’t wait his turn to say his piece must shout and prevent others making their point.
Bad radio, bad behaviour, rewarded every time with another soapbox slot for mr shouty.
Exactly, he’s unendurable…
What’s a Prime Minister to do?
On the one hand his party has accepted hundreds of thousands of dollars in
bribesdonations, on the other, he wants to keep up with the Australians and this is an opportunity to look tough. Decisions decisions…The Australians will do as they are told by the USA, this much as become clear over the years, and so having taken the money from Huawei, and even had them in NZ looking for prey to purchase, Key really is in a tight spot…
Good link that one….potentially some more “xenophobia” coming along!
The thought of Key feeling under seige by his ministers, and possibly stuck between OZ/US and China, really should give one pause for a smile!
Agreed.
These paragraphs in particular stood out for me, especially the last bit of para 2 re Key singling out the firm:
“The New Zealand government has welcomed Huawei’s interest in the ultrafast broadband (UFB) network.
Trade Minister Tim Groser, Economic Development Minister Steven Joyce and Finance Minister Bill English visited the company in China after Prime Minister John Key singled out the firm for possible involvement in the UFB network.”
The National Party’s desire to get paid has so far outweighed the national interest on every occasion – education policy, gambling laws, asset sales, penal reform, resource extraction, etc etc.
Will it outweigh Australia and the USA’s interests too?
And that is one of the reasons why we need to be able to produce what we need here.
70 more jobs to go from a government department…..
Govt fishery observers told to get ready to pack up
Published: 6:23PM Sunday March 25, 2012 Source: ONE News
A leaked email from the Ministry of Fisheries reveals that observers on commercial fishing vessels will have their jobs outsourced by the end of the year.
The observers are stationed on commercial fishing vessels to monitor the catch and conditions on the boats.
The leaked email reveals that around 70 Ministry of Fisheries observers have been told their jobs are being outsourced by December.
Industry insiders say that the move will rob the watchdogs of their independence.
One former observer says that they play a vital role.
“No-one has questioned the quality of their information and it shouldn’t be compromised for money, and certainly not when the fisheries are under pressure.”
Critics argue that outsourcing will allow fishing companies to pick observers who are prepared to turn a blind eye in order to keep their jobs.
Currently observers are employed by the Ministry of Fisheries on short term contracts while they are at sea.
The Ministry recoups their pay and administration expenses from the fishing companies.
Glenn Simmons from the University of Auckland told ONE News he cannot see the logic in the change.
“I really can’t see any cost savings in it, so I really wonder what is driving this, particularly from the Ministry’s point of view.”
But documents show the fishing industry has been pushing for outsourcing for at least six years.
The Ministry of Fisheries would not be interviewed for this story, and refused to give an explanation of the benefits gained by outsourcing the observer roles.
The Minister of Fisheries, David Carter told ONE News that observers are not likely to be outsourced by December.
“At this stage there’s still a lot more work to be done as to how best to deliver observer services on foreign charter vessels and other vessels no decision has been made about outsourcing.”
Nevertheless, one former observer says that the decision seems fixed.
“They’ve already decided, it appears they’re not asking any questions here.”
http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/govt-fishery-observers-told-get-ready-pack-up-4795996
…and all the issues about slave labour in our waters will magically dissapear
Watch as our seas get raped even more as the private providers who are supposed to be watching the catch find that it’s more profitable to cut back on the number of observers making it impossible to actually regulate the industry as required.
It’s just another way for this government to hand over our wealth to their rich mates.
Hurrah for NZ Incorporated!!!!
Speculating because im not that knowledgable about the industry but I expect this means boats will fish in areas they arent allowed, mis reporting of bycatch especially marine mammals, rorting of the quotas and maybe that final nail in the coffin for the Hectors dolphin.
Great to see that details are still being leaked from Government Departments.
Keeps the public service busy.
Long may it continue providing the informants cannot be traced, but that is getting easier to trace.
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10794656
So no word about pushing the imperials to dissarm then John.
Nah don’t want to upset the masters eh!
Peter George – how about getting your great leader, Peter Dunne, to have his head shaved in support of this very worthy cause?
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10794675
I could ask – but shaving heads is not for everyone. I don’t have much left on top but have never felt inclined to take the lot off. I do donate to things without taking part in the marketing gimmicks, as I’m sure many people do.
Perhaps Brownlee should replace McCully as Minister of Foreign Affairs?
http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/6639179/Finns-angry-over-Gerry-Brownlees-comments
Profiteering companies prove, once again, that they stand in the way of people getting what they need.
Well that is a bit weird:
“Police will not lay charges against freelance cameraman Bradley Ambrose over the so-called “teapot tapes” affair, Assistant Commissioner Malcolm Burgess says.
He said police will issue Mr Ambrose with a warning after referring the matter to Crown Law.
…….clear that the actions of Mr Ambrose were unlawful.”
That needs clarification:
Was it unlawful to leave his recorder on the table?
Was it unlawful to retrieve it?
Was it subsequent actions that made it unlawful?
What does unlawful mean against a criminal act?
Sort of cleared but damned.
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10794713
IMO, the police have just decided to change the law but have not gone to the extent of having that law change tested in court.
That needs clarification:
Was it unlawful to leave his recorder on the table?
He left it there quite reasonably. And really what value was it to reporters if they could not publish it, and did not? Maybe it was a turd blossom Key’s minders wanted leaked, making Key look like a victim of the nasty press.
Was it unlawful to retrieve it?
It was his property, and arguable are you allowed to break the PM security to retrieve your property?
Was it subsequent actions that made it unlawful?
What does unlawful mean against a criminal act?
If he was given a warning, what were the specifics of the warning he was given????
Sort of cleared but damned.
Police must think there was enough evidence but the prosecution may believe he already suffered enough.
My point is that I am unsure what the unlawful bit is? (Just in case I mislay my recorder, or hand it on when found or even need to know when a public place is a private place.)
The allegation was of intentionally recording someone when they would have reasonably expected a private conversation. I.e. apparently banks and key were expecting to be able to whisper intimate nothings into each other’s ear without being heard.
Given that it was at a media event with cameras rolling just on the other side of an open door, and that the camera operator claimed to have forgotten the mic in all the hubbub, and that the private conversation took place in a public cafe the police have decided to pretend that the offence was committed without all that difficult “proof” stuff.
Damn, stuffed up the blockquoting there 😳
Anna Bligh former Labor Premier for Queensland maintains state asset sales were “absolutely necessary”
Why do we even need Tory political leaders when we have Labor leaders like this hanging about?
http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/bligh-concedes-defeat-in-qld-election-20120324-1vqi4.html
Political parties need funding….need I say more.
With 7 MPs left they’re really going to need that funding now. A great scheme, the Liberals in power in Queensland for the next half generation.
No Right Turn shows the amazing Stats.
Lib/National 49% of votes but 87% of seats
Labour 27% of vote but 8% of seats
Greens 7% of vote but 0% of seats.
Hooray for MMP.
Quick question for you lefties and then I’ll leave you alone again.
Is Cuba regarded as having a better or worse system than Western free market economies?
I’m just reading a very interesting survey on Cuba on the Economist at the moment and find the left wing policies there mind bogingly dumb and was wondering if they are consistent with any left wing thinking here. For example, apparently advertising is not allowed WTF?
http://www.economist.com/node/21550416
Yawn, it’s afternoon tea time..time for a quick break..my men and I have been making the hard cash today..and here comes Gos.
Gos understands the mind numbing complexities of Zimmers and now Cuba, paragons of “errant” left wing thinking. These Gos equates to socialist thinking everywhere…..such a broad brush stroke over such a broad church.
Interestingly Gos displays a very extreme ideological purity over what is also a very broad church, right wing thinking. The mind numbing neo lib orthodox version.
It was a simple question Bored. All it required was an answer along the lines of ‘We like it’s social policies but the majority of it’s economic policies and it’s political repression is reprehensible so the West is better in that respect’. Not hard to do really.
Yeah and it was a simple answer too: No one gives a fuck about you and your world view.
Not hard to understand really.
Ummmm…. I’m not asking anything about my world view. I’m asking about lefties world view in relation to Cuba. I’m not interested in getting into a debate on the rights or wrongs of this. Think of it as intelligence gathering or ‘Know thy enemy’.
Hey Gos, watcha been up to since the Cold War ended?
Really?
It looks more like a greasy teen jerking off than a super-army-soldier behind-blog-lines intel grab.
Gosman, it occurs to me that you often begin any point you make by asking a question or multiple questions, and demanding answers.
You keep demanding answers until one (or more) is provided.
You then deride the answer.
In affect, you’re using a tactic called “explaining is losing”, a common theme in politics.
Carry on.
+1 Frank Macskasy
No point here Frank. You are free to make any comment you wish without me stating it is a load of bollocks.
So what is your view of Cuba then?
+1Felix
Cuba has one of the highest Literacy rates in the World, and on a very slender shoestring.
They couldn’t beat China though. I’ve seen their circus performers and they can do anything on a shoestring, spinning 20 plates too.
Thanks. That is what I was interested in seeing.
Did anyone hear on Sunday 7pm Radionz World Book Club: James Ellroy – American Tabloid.which goes through the Bay of Pigs debacle and ties it into the assassination of John Kennedy.
Ellroy pondered what things would have been different if Cuba had been invaded as planned (Kennedy had envisaged 16 planes but only sent in six)according to this fictionalised account.
I think their most significant economic “policy” has been dictated to them by the US.
How well do you think NZ would be doing if Australia had the same trade embargos with us?
Not wanting to get into a massive debate about this but the embargo by the US should not really be that much of big deal now. Cuba is free to trade with numerous other countries. To try and place the blame for economic difficulties on that is not really fair.
That’s right Gosman. 50 odd years of being denied the opportunity to trade with your nearest neighbour which just happens to be the world’s biggest economy is unlikely to have had any effect one way or the other.
Also when the world’s biggest consumer refuses to trade with anyone who trades with you.
Yep, no effect whatsoever.
Guess Cubans are just lazy.
Maybe they should be forced to do some “community service” so they learn lifeskills and stop being munters?
The community service stuff sucks up resources and is meaningless in effect when there are not jobs available to go to.
What makes you think that they are left-wing? I read the articles on the weekend and thought that they reminded me of the days of Muldoon.
Looks more like a standard controlled economy. A bit like the UK during and for a decade after the second world war. For that matter our current labour laws that forbid freedoms of association are much the same.
In other words, just use your brains….
Depends on your definition of left wing I suppose. The idea of guarranteed minimum living standards would be more left than right. Also the aversion to private property. What was interesting, as stated, was the fact that they outlaw advertising. I don’t know if that is regarded as left wing or not hence one of the reason asking the question.
Gosman I totally agree with you Cuba is way worse for being a company based on Socialism, as were many of the Eastern block countries.
One of the main issues of Socialism ,and someting they have never been able to get to grips with. Is eventually you run out of other peoples money
Of course having a economic embargo hasn’t had any impact at all?
Plonker…
I’d argue that it hasn’t. Cuba can redirect trade elsewhere and did so in the past.
… although the reason Cuba “ran out of money” was because of a US-sponsored embargo. So of it’s it’s unsurprising they “ran out of money”. So would you, if you couldn’t earn an income.
Hardly ‘cricket’, is it?
And definitely anti-free market.
Though I guess using Thatcher’s slogans is easier than reality?
Frank why did the Eastern Block countries run out of money, and Russia no embargo there? they were collapsing all over the place. Agree with Cuba though understanable Kennedy didnt want nukes there
Why did the USSR collapse James…..go on read some history, I dare you!
Why was South Osetia such an issue?
In simplified terms because no one wanted to buy their products. When you take competitors out of the situation and only supply state made products. You dumb everyone down to the lowest common denominator. Many of their products were shite. There was a total lack of innovation because of state control. It became just a job with no passion no critical thinking
“It became just a job with no passion no critical thinking” – Well done mate you have just described 90% of the worlds jobs, if not nearer 100% as they exist under the current prevailing system!
BULLSHIT
The state can innovate and take risks far more than the private sector is willing to do, James.
Everything from the atomic bomb, to the transistor, to the foundations of the internet, to supersonic jet travel, the state has led the way while private companies only become interested once the hard risky expensive work has been done on the public purse.
And that would be why the USSR was the first country in the world to orbit the earth with a man made satellite and why, once they got over being terrified, the USA landed on the moon…
Oh, wait…
BTW, it’s impossible to run out of money as the banks print it as fast as possible. The real problem is that we’re running out of resources due to the capitalist free-market (which, of course, is no where near “free”).
Gosman or James, have either of you been to Cuba and or know many Cuban people?
Or is it just commenting again from lets call it, best guess!
I’m not really commenting on the Cuban situation at all beyond stating that you can’t blame the economic problems in Cuba on the embargo by the US.
Cuba did relatively well up to the 1980’s. It didn’t need to trade with the US during this period.
The US hasn’t got the ability to massively impact other nations trading with Cuba either. Name me some countries or companies who have suffered as a result of doing business with Cuba.
I don’t agree with the economic embargo myself as it is counter productive but the US has every right to decide who it trades with. As leftists I am sure you would agree with that logic. It forms the basis of many of your objections to free trade pacts. You know – sovereignty blah blah.
Fine. No-one was arguing the right or ability of the USA to impose this embargo.
But you cannot discount the reason why it was imposed in the first place… the USA hoped to break Cuba economically, and it certainly had a big negative impact on their economy. You can’t simply ignore it because it doesn’t suit your argument. In the long run the embargo will probably prove counter-productive as the Cubans have also learned to make do with far less and have a more resilient economy as a result. It is certainly not as ‘efficient’ or ‘prosperous’ according to conventional measures… but as the Egyptian’s discovered when Joseph ruled them; the seven years of plenty meant little during the seven years of famine.
Interestingly if you read The Spirit Level closely enough, you will notice that Cuba is also the only country in the world that is close to being both socially and environmentally sustainable… at least according the to way the authors measured these things.
“… and it certainly had a big negative impact on their economy”
I respectively disagree. The embargo was put on in the 1960’s as you will see from the graph below the Cuban economy was able to redirect trade to other sources and managed quite good GDP growth through to the end of the 1980’s. Of course when those other trading sources fell over then their economy tanked but that is hardly the US’s fault.
What you seem to be saying here is that the US should be obliged to support economically the Cuban economy by allowing them to trade with them. It would be like trying to argue that Australia should be obliged to trade with us.
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/6f/GDP-Carribean.png
You should reread the Economist articles again and do it a bit more closely this time.
The Cuban economy was effectively being subsidised by the USSR especially with low prices for imported oil and high prices for exported sugar. This was largely as a response to the US embargo. When the USSR started to disintegrate in the late 80’s, the subsidies and markets diminished.
The embargo was (and still is) in place. In the late 80’s it included most countries in the america’s and western europe. This included the Panama canal. If you have a look at the available trade routes you’ll find that leaves very little that is a possible trade route apart from going half way around the world. Mostly africa, the middle east, and eastern europe. None of them exactly bursting with export potential for the commodities that Cuba produced and all with closer sources of supply.
The wonder was that the cuban economy didn’t fold under the embargo in the 90’s. But the embargo that has been stupidly maintained by US domestic politics was definitely the main constraint on their economy.
I’m sorry but nothing in that survey suggested the embargo was anything but an major irritant to Cuba. It certainly didn’t place the blame for the lack of economic performance on it. In fact it mentions that Cuba has an opportunity to become a significant economic player if it makes changes regardlesss of the embargo. If you disagree then please show where the survey supports your view rather than mine.
Apples and oranges. Late 80’s and 90’s compared to now. The embargo now has more holes on it than solid sections.
I’ll have wait until tomorrow night at the earliest to dig into TE. Work is a bit demanding during the day.
“For that matter our current labour laws that forbid freedoms of association are much the same. ”
Indeed. It’s interesting how repressive and controlling National actually is. they labelled Labour as “nanny state” – and yet they pass more restrictive laws than any Labour government.
Yet, they manage to cultivate an image as the “party of freedom”…
Yes and they say things like ‘eventually you run out of other people’s money’ about Labour while they are busy hoovering up as much ‘other people’s money’ as they can for themselves.
“…or that matter our current labour laws that forbid freedoms of association ”
What aspect of our labour laws forbid freedoms of association?
Anyone else see this?
Interesting report on the Aotearoa blog think you guys need to go easy on Merryl Lynch and John Key or you could end up with a heap of egg on your face! Russai has put out an arrest warrant for him kind of ironical really
Soros is regarded by many as a sort of leftist saviour who finances leftist media outlets and who is fabulously wealthy. What is interesting is that Soros’ has been financing many colour revolutions around the world through his NGO’s causing death, destabilisation and mayhem in the chosen countries.
You may want to remember that our new lefty leader David Shearer actually worked for one of Soros’ NGO’s called The international crisis group which has such criminals as Zbignew Brzezinski and Richard Armitage on its board and as advisors.
Jimbo, you are on fire tonight – Soros is in fact a complete insider criminal of the very highest order..
I have huge reservations about Shearer, and any politician who has been indoctrinated via the USA educational brainwashing facilities, followed by their political pre screening services, and further brainwash. I also include the UN, and any of the alphabet soup organisations you can name, which far as I can tell are little more than criminal oganisations, masquerading as being the “good guys”
That shaven-headed, thin-lipped, angry middle-aged dickhead at the skatepark.
National voter or ACToid? I reckon National.