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Operation Burnham: A disorganised cover-up?
Written By: - Date published: 9:03 pm, July 31st, 2020 - 13 comments
A justified operation, no organised cover-up, but serious failures in senior defence personnel’s denial and misrepresentation, and serious failures by the intelligence agencies in handing over a suspect to torture. The Inquiry called for a review of Defence administration, an Inspector-General of Defence, a Defence Force order on dealing with allegations of civilian casualties, and an “effective detention policy.”
Hong Kong principles
Written By: - Date published: 9:49 pm, July 28th, 2020 - 38 comments
According to our Prime Minister, today’s announcement that New Zealand is suspending extradition arrangements with Hong Kong is because of our principles. But it is not immediately clear what these principles are, other than falling into line with our Five Eyes spying partners. Some history is important.
Afghanistan pushes the US out
Written By: - Date published: 7:26 am, March 4th, 2020 - 16 comments
I have really no idea who to cheer for about the Afghanistan peace
agreement. If the Taliban were the answer, it was a pretty fucking
stupid question.
That 1914 Feeling
Written By: - Date published: 10:28 pm, January 3rd, 2020 - 104 comments
President Trump personally ordered the assassination of General Qassem Soleimani, head of Iran’s elite military Quds force. He was killed by rockets fired from US drones over Baghdad Airport. This is unlawful by any standards, as well as an act of war. Iran has promised retaliation.The doomsday clock just moved closer to midnight.
Trump sacks Bolton – oil price nosedives!
Written By: - Date published: 7:01 am, September 11th, 2019 - 26 comments
This has been rumoured for some time now. It’s good news – peace now has a chance, as Trump has woken up to the fact that a shooting war would not be good for his re-election. Also Bolton’s hard-line strategy was failing everywhere.
Government under FiveEyes
Written By: - Date published: 9:48 pm, June 7th, 2019 - 11 comments
Australian Federal Police chief Neil Gaughan told media after raiding the ABC that “if police did not investigate the leaking of classified information, Australia would no longer be entrusted by FiveEyes partners with intelligence that saves lives.” FiveEyes didn’t save Muslim lives in Christchurch.
Trump meets Putin
Written By: - Date published: 9:03 am, July 16th, 2018 - 116 comments
Some things that President Trump won’t do as when meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin in Helsinki.
Still in Denial.
Written By: - Date published: 9:12 am, April 4th, 2018 - 46 comments
General Tim Keating’s resignation.
Nicky Hager: Defence admits raid was located in same area as described in Hit and Run
Written By: - Date published: 5:05 am, March 14th, 2018 - 24 comments
“I believe that the impulse to hide the NZDF’s mistakes led the Chief of Defence Force knowingly to mislead the media and the public.”
Middle East Changes
Written By: - Date published: 1:58 pm, August 27th, 2017 - 70 comments
If there is a change of Government what should Labour do about requests for military assistance in the Middle East?
Legal action on “Hit and Run” deaths
Written By: - Date published: 8:40 am, August 19th, 2017 - 10 comments
Lawyers for the villagers in the area allegedly hit in Operation Burnham are taking the Government to court over its refusal to hold an independent inquiry. English responds with some particularly vile spin.
What are our SAS up to? An easy to digest guide!
Written By: - Date published: 2:18 pm, August 15th, 2017 - 8 comments
A short video looking at the major issues in the Hager/Stephenson book ‘Hit and Run’
“Ongoing cover-up” on Operation Burnham
Written By: - Date published: 8:11 am, July 9th, 2017 - 14 comments
David Fisher in The Herald exposes yet another NZDF “error” on Operation Burnham. Intelligence analyst Dr Paul Buchanan: “I’m absolutely certain that what we’re seeing is part of the ongoing cover-up.”
Brownlee lying to the UN over Operation Burnham
Written By: - Date published: 6:36 am, June 12th, 2017 - 18 comments
The UN called for an investigation into Operation Burnham. Very inconvenient for the Nats who would rather sweep any dead civilians under the carpet and forget them. So naturally Gerry Brownlee responds with a lie.
UN calls for investigation into Operation Burnham
Written By: - Date published: 1:59 pm, June 9th, 2017 - 23 comments
Well well. What will you do now Bill?
Hager Hit & Run and NZ’s Asian wars
Written By: - Date published: 8:23 pm, June 5th, 2017 - 13 comments
Nicky Hager will talk about his book Hit and Run, and the issues it raises about New Zealand’s values and role in the world at 5:30pm on Wednesday 7th June at Connolly Hall, Guildford Terrace, Wellington. The book is about important events and the incoherence of New Zealand fighting it’s longest ever war in Central Asia. This talk is particularly timely in view of this week’s visit of the American Secretary of State, Rex Tillerson.
NZDF changes story on Operation Burnham photos
Written By: - Date published: 12:57 pm, May 13th, 2017 - 10 comments
Why did the NZDF wrongly claim that there were no photographs of the mission? Intelligence analyst Dr Paul Buchanan has a suggestion.
The NZDF’s transparent fig leaf
Written By: - Date published: 7:23 am, April 23rd, 2017 - 18 comments
According to David Fisher (Herald) the NZDF never investigated allegations of civilian deaths at the time of Operation Burnham. They received only a summary of the whitewash ISAF report. They refuse to look further. This is the behaviour of an organisation with plenty to hide. Hager and Stephenson have facts, the NZDF are hiding behind a transparent fig leaf of deliberate ignorance.
Duck and Cover
Written By: - Date published: 9:00 am, April 16th, 2017 - 89 comments
Donald Trump is engaged in some over the top brinkmanship with North Korea which is increasing the prospects of at least a limited exchange of nuclear weapons.
Big Barrel Bomb
Written By: - Date published: 3:40 pm, April 14th, 2017 - 81 comments
Firstly, remember how you’re meant to feel about even the mere accusation of the use of barrel bombs. Now put those feelings aside.
Mediawatch on Hit and Run
Written By: - Date published: 9:17 am, April 10th, 2017 - 77 comments
“Has the meaning of book Hit and Run been obscured by all the claims and counter-claims in the media?” – Yes of course it has, and that is a deliberate strategy on the part of people who are desperate to avoid an inquiry.
Small on the Nats’ Key deficit on Hit and Run
Written By: - Date published: 7:53 am, April 6th, 2017 - 24 comments
Vernon Small thinks the B Team is missing Key.
The truth will out
Written By: - Date published: 9:07 am, April 5th, 2017 - 93 comments
English can squirm and deny, but according to Stephenson there is more Hit and Run to come.
Land of the long white wash
Written By: - Date published: 7:03 am, April 4th, 2017 - 89 comments
In ruling out an inquiry Bill English insults both our intelligence and our integrity. Next stop the International Criminal Court? (Alas the title is not mine, take a bow Finlay MacDonald.)
The NZDF will never clear its name – and neither will Bill English
Written By: - Date published: 7:03 am, April 3rd, 2017 - 154 comments
It’s likely that some time this week Bill English will announce that there will be no inquiry into operation Burnham. The NZDF will lose any opportunity to clear its name. Fronting up to the truth, whatever it may be, is better than the perception of a shabby coverup.
Update: And there it is – no inquiry.
HERALD EXCLUSIVE ON HIT AND RUN shows they haven’t read it
Written By: - Date published: 7:44 am, March 31st, 2017 - 57 comments
Worst piece of “journalism” on Hit and Run so far.
Update: To their credit, as of 11am this piece of nonsense seems to have vanished from The Herald website.
Former Defence Minister Wayne Mapp: “As a nation we owe it to ourselves to find out”
Written By: - Date published: 12:26 pm, March 30th, 2017 - 45 comments
Mapp: “Part of protecting their reputation is also finding out what happened, particularly if there is an allegation that civilian casualties may have been accidentally caused. In that way we both honour the soldiers, and also demonstrate to the Afghans that we hold ourselves to the highest ideals of respect of life, even in circumstances of military conflict.”
Hit and Run developments
Written By: - Date published: 1:19 pm, March 29th, 2017 - 36 comments
It appears that the questioned NZDF attack took place at the location claimed by the force, but hit the villages named by the book (coordinates used by various parties are off by 2km).
NZDF credibility on the line
Written By: - Date published: 8:11 am, March 27th, 2017 - 80 comments
There were several significant developments on Hit and Run and the NZDF over the weekend. Which version of the NZDF story is it that Bill English backs 100%?
Impossible to refuse an inquiry
Written By: - Date published: 12:55 pm, March 24th, 2017 - 67 comments
Bill English should stop being evasive and just get on with an inquiry into the fiasco outlined in Hit and Run. The latest developments make any other outcome ridiculous. The longer English delays the worse he looks.
Wayne Mapp does not deny civilian deaths in botched raid
Written By: - Date published: 5:33 pm, March 22nd, 2017 - 84 comments
Good on you Wayne. Hit just got real.
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- 90% efficacy for Pfizer’s COVID-19 mRNA vaccine is striking. But we need to wait for the full dataHarry Al-Wassiti, Monash University; Colin Pouton, Monash University, and Kylie Quinn, RMIT University German biotech company BioNTech and US pharmaceutical Pfizer announced on Monday promising early results from their phase 3 clinical trial for a vaccine against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. These early results are what is known ...2 weeks ago
- Empty hand-wringingThis morning, we learned that house prices have risen nearly 20% in the past year, locking more people out of the housing market and further entrenching the growing class divide between those with wealthy parents and those without. And of course, Jacinda Ardern is deeply concerned: Prime Minister Jacinda ...2 weeks ago
- Buying a coronavirus vaccine for everyone on Earth, storing and shipping it, and giving it safely wi...Nicole Hassoun, Binghamton University, State University of New York Infectious diseases do not respect borders. An estimated 3 billion people in low-income countries across Africa, Asia and Latin America are likely to lack access to a COVID-19 vaccine for years after it becomes available. In poor nations, many communities lack ...2 weeks ago
- Climate Change: The first testLast year, Parliament passed the Zero Carbon Act, a framework which effectively outsourced climate change policy to an independent commission, in a shame-based model designed to ensure the government did what was recommended. The Commission will be making recommendations on New Zealand's Paris target, the methane target, and the first ...2 weeks ago
- Scientists thought these seals evolved in the north. 3-million-year-old fossils from New Zealand sug...James Patrick Rule, Monash University; Erich Fitzgerald, Museums Victoria; Felix Georg Marx, Te Papa Tongarewa, and Justin W. Adams, Monash University A fossil discovery in New Zealand has revealed a new species of monk seal that once called Australasia home. We introduce the three million-year-old seal, Eomonachus belegaerensis, in a ...2 weeks ago
- Green Party announce portfolio reshuffle with talented and energised caucus team
The Green Party Co-leaders have announced their portfolio reshuffle for the 53rd Parliament. “The Green Party caucus offers a breadth of talent and energy to the Parliament this term. In ten MPs you have a small business owner, a human rights lawyer, an academic, a climate negotiator, a transport planner, ...22 hours ago - Nearly 50 percent increase in Kiwi apprentices
As we recover and rebuild from COVID-19, we’re investing in major shovel-ready and long-term infrastructure projects up and down the country – creating thousands of jobs in the trades nationwide. ...4 days ago - Celebrating World Children's DayThis World Children’s Day, we’re taking a look at all the ways we’re working to make New Zealand the best place in the world to be a child. ...4 days ago
- Report of alleged war crimes by Australian Defence Force in Afghanistan a distressing reminder of th...The Green Party strongly condemns the revelation of alleged war crimes by the Australian Defence Force in Afghanistan, with an alleged unlawful killing of 39 people by 25 Special Forces personnel. ...4 days ago
- SPEECH: 10th Anniversary of Pike River tragedyTēnei te mihi ki a tātau katoa e huihui nei i tēnei rā I greet us all who are gathered here today ...5 days ago
- Greens commit to ensuring strong oceans protection this termThe Green Party will work with Labour this term to ensure better protections for our oceans, Green MP Eugenie Sage said today. ...6 days ago
- Kiwis deserve fair prices at the supermarket2020 has been a tough year. Not only has COVID-19 presented unique challenges to the way we work, play and socialise, for many Kiwis the pandemic has also meant more of a strain on the back pocket. ...1 week ago
- Auckland COVID-19 case shows need for extended sick leave before busy Christmas periodThe case of an Auckland city worker heading to work with COVID-19 symptoms shows the need for urgent extended sick leave, Green Party Workplace Relations spokesperson Jan Logie said today. ...1 week ago
- Meet our new MPsWondering who our new Labour MPs are? We asked our 23 new Caucus members to share a little about themselves and the experience they will be bringing to Parliament... ...2 weeks ago
- Reserve Bank policies will inevitably heat housing market, Government must implement tax reform to c...The Government must use levers to prevent further over-heating of the housing market, which will result from the Reserve Bank pumping another $28 billion into the economy in the form of cheap loans to banks. ...2 weeks ago
- Successful prosecution of Talley’s deep-water fishing division shows need for more marine protecte...Today’s ruling that Talley’s deep-water fishing division, Amaltal, is guilty of bottom trawling in the Hikurangi Marine Reserve demonstrates the need for increased fisheries enforcement and strong marine protected areas off our coasts, Green MP Eugenie Sage said today. ...2 weeks ago
- Green Party backs calls by New Zealand charities to lift the benefit by ChristmasThe Green Party supports calls by 40 welfare and poverty organisations to increase income support payments to help lift families out of poverty before Christmas. ...2 weeks ago
- Ministers sworn in to GovernmentToday the Governor-General swore in the new Executive. ...3 weeks ago
- Green Party responds to final election results from specialsGreen Party Co-leader Marama Davidson said today: “The final results are in and we’re incredibly excited to confirm our outstanding success this election. ...3 weeks ago
- Greens welcome commitment to sick leave extensionThe Green Party has welcomed the Government’s commitment to introduce legislation to extend statutory minimum paid sick leave to ten days before the end of 2020. ...3 weeks ago
- Speech to Primary Industries Summit
Thank you for the opportunity to speak to you today about the significant contribution the food and fibres sector makes to New Zealand and how this Government is supporting that effort. I’d like to start by acknowledging our co-Chairs, Terry Copeland and Mavis Mullins, my colleague, Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor, ...36 mins ago - Fast track referrals will speed up recovery and boost jobs and home buildingThe Government is taking action to increase jobs, speed up the economic recovery and build houses by putting three more projects through its fast track approval process. “It’s great to see that the fast-track consenting process is working. Today we have referred a mix of potential projects that, if approved, ...17 hours ago
- Papakāinga provides critically needed homes in HastingsA papakāinga opened today by the Minister for Māori Development the Hon Willie Jackson will provide whānau with much needed affordable rental homes in Hastings. The four home papakāinga in Waiōhiki is the first project to be completed under the ‘Hastings Place Based’ initiative. This initiative is a Government, Hastings ...3 days ago
- New Zealand ready to host APEC virtuallyPrime Minister Jacinda Ardern took over the leadership of APEC earlier today, when she joined leaders from the 21 APEC economies virtually for the forum’s final 2020 meeting. “We look forward to hosting a fully virtual APEC 2021 next year. While this isn’t an in-person meeting, it will be one ...3 days ago
- Revival of Māori HorticulturistsThe rapid revival of Māori horticulture was unmistakeable at this year’s Ahuwhenua Trophy Awards, with 2020 marking the first time this iconic Māori farming event was dedicated to horticulture enterprises. Congratulating finalists at the Awards, Māori Development Minister Willie Jackson said growing large-scale māra kai is part of Māori DNA. ...4 days ago
- Emergency benefit to help temporary visa holdersFrom 1 December, people on temporary work, student or visitor visas who can’t return home and or support themselves may get an Emergency Benefit from the Ministry of Social Development, Social Development and Employment Minister Carmel Sepuloni announced today. Previously, temporary visa holders in hardship because of COVID-19 have had ...4 days ago
- School sustainability projects to help boost regional economiesForty one schools from the Far North to Southland will receive funding for projects that will reduce schools’ emissions and save them money, Education Minister Chris Hipkins announced today. This is the second round of the Sustainability Contestable Fund, and work will begin immediately. The first round announced in April ...4 days ago
- Farmer-led projects to improve water health in Canterbury and OtagoMore than $6 million will be spent on helping farmers improve the health of rivers, wetlands, and habitat biodiversity in Canterbury and Otago, as well as improving long-term land management practices, says Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor. Four farmer-led catchment group Jobs for Nature projects have between allocated between $176,000 and ...4 days ago
- Tupu Aotearoa continues expansion to Pacific communities in Nelson, Marlborough, Tasman & Northl...Pacific communities in Nelson, Marlborough, Tasman and Northland will benefit from the expansion of the Tupu Aotearoa programme announced today by the Minister for Pacific Peoples, Aupito William Sio. The programme provides sustainable employment and education pathways and will be delivered in partnership with three providers in Northland and two ...4 days ago
- New primary school and classrooms for 1,200 students in South IslandEducation Minister Chris Hipkins unveiled major school building projects across the South Island during a visit to Waimea College in Nelson today. It’s part of the Government’s latest investment of $164 million to build new classrooms and upgrade schools around the country. “Investments like this gives the construction industry certainty ...4 days ago
- Minister of Māori Development pays tribute to Rudy TaylorToday the Minister of Māori Development, alongside other Government Ministers and MP’s said their final farewells to Nga Puhi Leader Rudy Taylor. “Rudy dedicated his life to the betterment of Māori, and his strong approach was always from the ground up, grassroots, sincere and unfaltering” “Over the past few ...4 days ago
- Prime Minister to attend APEC Leaders’ SummitPrime Minister Jacinda Ardern will attend the annual APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting and associated events virtually today and tomorrow. “In a world where we cannot travel due to COVID-19, continuing close collaboration with our regional partners is key to accelerating New Zealand’s economic recovery,” Jacinda Ardern said. “There is wide ...4 days ago
- Speech to Infrastructure NZ SymposiumTena Koutou, Tena Koutou and thank you for inviting me to speak to you today. This is a critical time for New Zealand as we respond to the damage wreaked by the global COVID-19 pandemic. It is vital that investment in our economic recovery is well thought through, and makes ...5 days ago
- Pike River 10 Year Anniversary Commemorative ServiceTēnei te mihi ki a tātau katoa e huihui nei i tēnei rā Ki a koutou ngā whānau o te hunga kua riro i kōnei – he mihi aroha ki a koutou Ki te hapori whānui – tēnā koutou Ki ngā tāngata whenua – tēnā koutou Ki ngā mate, e ...5 days ago
- Huge investment in new and upgraded classrooms to boost construction jobsAround 7,500 students are set to benefit from the Government’s latest investment of $164 million to build new classrooms and upgrade schools around the country. “The election delivered a clear mandate to accelerate our economic recovery and build back better. That’s why we are prioritising construction projects in schools so more ...5 days ago
- Keeping Pike River Mine promises 10 years onTen years after the Pike River Mine tragedy in which 29 men lost their lives while at work, a commemorative service at Parliament has honoured them and their legacy of ensuring all New Zealand workplaces are safe. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern attended the event, along with representatives of the Pike ...5 days ago
- Additional testing to strengthen border and increase safety of workersNew testing measures are being put in place to increase the safety of border workers and further strengthen New Zealand’s barriers against COVID-19, COVID-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins said today. “These strengthened rules – to apply to all international airports and ports – build on the mandatory testing orders we’ve ...5 days ago
- More public housing delivered in AucklandThe Government’s investment in public housing is delivering more warm, dry homes with today’s official opening of 82 new apartments in New Lynn by the Housing Minister Megan Woods. The Thom Street development replaces 16 houses built in the 1940s, with brand new fit-for-purpose public housing that is in high ...5 days ago
- Agreement advanced to purchase up to 5 million COVID-19 vaccinesThe Government has confirmed an in-principle agreement to purchase up to 5 million COVID-19 vaccines – enough for 5 million people – from Janssen Pharmaceutica, subject to the vaccine successfully completing clinical trials and passing regulatory approvals in New Zealand, says Research, Science and Innovation Minister Megan Woods. “This agreement ...5 days ago
- Jobs for Nature funding will leave a conservation legacy for Waikanae awaNinety-two jobs will be created to help environmental restoration in the Waikanae River catchment through $8.5 million of Jobs for Nature funding, Conservation Minister Kiritapu Allan announced today. “The new funding will give a four-year boost to the restoration of the Waikanae awa, and is specifically focussed on restoration through ...5 days ago
- New Dunedin Hospital project progresses to next stageAs the new Dunedin Hospital project progresses, the Government is changing the oversight group to provide more technical input, ensure continued local representation, and to make sure lessons learnt from Dunedin benefit other health infrastructure projects around the country. Concept design approval and the release of a tender for early ...5 days ago
- Jump in apprentice and trainee numbersThe number of New Zealanders taking up apprenticeships has increased nearly 50 percent, and the number of female apprentices has more than doubled. This comes as a Government campaign to raise the profile of vocational education and training (VET) begins. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Education Minister Chris Hipkins announced ...6 days ago
- ReBuilding Nations Symposium 2020 (Infrastructure NZ Conference opening session)Tena koutou katoa and thank you for the opportunity to be with you today. Can I acknowledge Ngarimu Blair, Ngati Whatua, and Mayor Phil Goff for the welcome. Before I start with my substantive comments, I do want to acknowledge the hard work it has taken by everyone to ensure ...6 days ago
- New Zealand's biosecurity champions honouredBiosecurity Minister Damien O’Connor has paid tribute to the winners of the 2020 New Zealand Biosecurity Awards. “These are the people and organisations who go above and beyond to protect Aotearoa from pests and disease to ensure our unique way of life is sustained for future generations,” Damien O’Connor says. ...7 days ago
- Tourism Industry Aotearoa Conferencespeech to Tourism Industry Aotearoa annual summit Te Papa, Wellington Introduction Nau mai, haere mai Tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, Ka nui te mihi, ki a koutou. Thank you Tourism Industry Aotearoa for hosting today’s Summit. In particular, my acknowledgements to TIA Chair Gráinne Troute and Chief Executive Chris Roberts. You ...7 days ago
- Supermarkets announced as Government’s second market studyThe Government has today launched a market study to ensure New Zealanders are paying a fair price for groceries. “Supermarkets are an integral part of our communities and economy, so it’s important to ensure that Kiwis are getting a fair deal at the checkout,” Minister of Commerce and Consumer ...1 week ago
- Masks to be worn on Auckland public transport and all domestic flightsMasks will need to be worn on all public transport in Auckland and in and out of Auckland and on domestic flights throughout the country from this Thursday, Minister for COVID-19 Response Chris Hipkins said today. “I will be issuing an Order under the COVID-19 Response Act requiring the wearing ...1 week ago
- New Zealand signs Regional Comprehensive Economic PartnershipIncrease to New Zealand’s GDP by around $2 billion each year Increase opportunities for NZ exporters to access regional markets Cuts red tape and offers one set of trade rules across the Asia Pacific region New government procurement, competition policy and electronic commerce offers NZ exporters increased business opportunities Prime ...1 week ago
- Minister acknowledges students as exams beginEducation Minister Chris Hipkins has recognised the extraordinary challenges students have faced this year, ahead of NCEA and New Zealand Scholarship exams which begin on Monday. “I want to congratulate students for their hard work during a year of unprecedented disruption, and I wish students all the best as ...1 week ago
- Prime Minister meets with key ASEAN and East Asia Summit partnersPrime Minister Jacinda Ardern today attended the ASEAN-New Zealand Commemorative Summit and discussed with Leaders a range of shared challenges facing the Indo-Pacific region, including: The ongoing management of the COVID-19 pandemic; The importance of working collectively to accelerate economic recovery; and Exploring further opportunities for partners to work more ...1 week ago
- Veterans Affairs Summit held in KoreaA Ministerial Summit on Veterans’ Affairs was held in the Republic of Korea this week. Ministers with veteran responsibilities were invited from all 22 countries that had been part of the United Nations Forces during the Korean War (1950 – 1953). The Summit marked the 70th anniversary of the outbreak ...2 weeks ago
- Clear direction set for the education system, skills prioritisedThe Government has released a set of priorities for early learning through to tertiary education and lifelong learning to build a stronger, fairer education system that delivers for all New Zealanders. “The election delivered a clear mandate from New Zealanders to accelerate our plan to reduce inequalities and make more ...2 weeks ago
- A Progressive AgendaSpeech to the Climate Change + Business Conference, November 12, 2020 Tena koutou katoa Thank you for inviting me to speak here today. It is great to see us all come together for a common cause: to redefine our future in the face of unprecedented times. Covid-19 and climate change are ...2 weeks ago
- Commemorative address at Act of Remembrance for Armistice DayTuatahi māku Ka mihi tu ki a koe Pita E pīkauria ana i te mana o Ngā tūpuna o te whenua nei. Thank you Bernadette for your warm introduction. I would also like to reflect on your acknowledgments and welcome Peter Jackson, Taranaki Whānui; Members of the National War Memorial ...2 weeks ago
- New fund launched to reduce carbon emissions from coal and gasThe Labour Government is quickly delivering a key election policy that will help business to switch from fossil fuels like coal and gas to clean energy for process heat while accelerating the economic recovery from Covid. The $70 million fund will allow business and industries to access financial support to ...2 weeks ago
- Support for flood affected Napier communityThe government will contribute $100,000 towards a Mayoral Relief Fund to support those most affected by the recent severe weather in Napier, the Minister for Emergency Management Kiri Allan announced today. “I have been in the region overnight meeting with locals and emergency service responders to discuss their needs, and ...2 weeks ago
- New vaping laws take effect todayNew laws intended to discourage young people from vaping while allowing smokers to continue using vaping to give up cigarettes take effect today, Health Minister Andrew Little says. “Today’s changes mean the laws around vaping are now similar to those around tobacco smoking,” Andrew Little says. The Smokefree Environments and ...2 weeks ago
- $84m to support research in scienceThe Government is investing $84.7 million in innovative research projects including those focussed on health, climate change, astronomy and the impact of Big Data on social equality says Research, Science and Innovation Minister Megan Woods. This year’s Marsden Fund will support 134 new projects including explorations of the connection between ...2 weeks ago
- Former Cook Islands Prime Minister mournedForeign Affairs Minister Hon Nanaia Mahuta has noted with sadness the passing of Jim Marurai, who served as Cook Islands Prime Minister between 2004 and 2010. “Jim Marurai made a significant contribution to his country through a lifetime of service. “As a teacher and as a politician, he was greatly ...2 weeks ago
- Minister heads to flood-hit NapierMinister of Emergency Management Kiri Allan will travel to Napier this afternoon to meet with frontline staff and residents affected by the severe weather that hit the area overnight. “My thoughts are with the Napier community as they deal with the damage and disruption that this deluge has caused, and ...2 weeks ago
- Are first home buyers really in a worse position than three years ago?
Thanks to falling interest rates and higher wages, mortgage affordability has remained surprisingly steady, writes Greg Ninness for interest.co.nz. But that doesn’t mean things aren’t a lot tougher for those trying to get onto the housing ladder. The latest house price figures make startling reading for potential first home buyers. ...50 mins ago - Councillors Have Spoken, Time To Remove Racist Provision In Establishment Of Māori Wards
Rawiri WaititiMāori Party Co-leader Māori Party co-leader and Waiariki MP Rawiri Waititi, congratulates Tairāwhiti & Taupō district councils for their stance in yesterday supporting the establishment of Māori wards in time for the 2022 local ...1 hour ago - Councillors Have Spoken, Time To Remove Racist Provision In Establishment Of Māori WardsRawiri WaititiMāori Party Co-leader Māori Party co-leader and Waiariki MP Rawiri Waititi, congratulates Tairāwhiti & Taupō district councils for their stance in yesterday supporting the establishment of Māori wards in time for the 2022 local ...1 hour ago
- Ancient sponges or just algae? New research overturns chemical evidence for the earliest animals
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lennart van Maldegem, Postdoctoral Fellow, Research School of Earth Sciences, Australian National University Sponges are the simplest of animals, and they may stand at the root of all complex animal life on Earth, including us humans. Scientists study the evolution of the ...2 hours ago - Is Trump’s truculence an attempted coup or the last-ditch efforts of a man whose star is fading?Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Daniel Cooper, Lecturer at Griffith University, Griffith University US President Donald Trump’s time in the White House is coming to an end. But, as has become obvious over the past few weeks, he is unlikely to deliver a gracious concession speech. Instead, ...2 hours ago
- COVID has presented unique challenges for people with eating disorders. They’ll need support beyon...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Laura Hart, Senior Research Fellow, University of Melbourne COVID-19 has changed the way we live, work and interact with one another. It has also changed the way we move, exercise, shop, prepare food, and eat. During the pandemic, we’ve seen marked increases ...2 hours ago
- Silky oaks are older than dinosaurs and literally drip nectar – but watch out for the cyanideSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Gregory Moore, Doctor of Botany, University of Melbourne As we come to the end of spring, look up from the footpath or at the park, and you may spot the fiery flowers of the silky oak, Grevillea robusta. You may already be ...2 hours ago
- Children may transmit coronavirus at the same rate as adults: what we now know about schools and COV...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Zoë Hyde, Epidemiologist, University of Western Australia The role children, and consequently schools, play in the COVID-19 pandemic has been hard to work out, but that puzzle is now finally starting to be solved. The latest research shows infections in children frequently ...2 hours ago
- It seemed like a good idea in lockdown, but is moving to the country right for you?Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rachael Wallis, Lecturer, University of Southern Queensland The idea of moving to the country has gained momentum through the COVID-19 pandemic. Many workplaces have introduced new policies on working from home that give employees the flexibility needed to make the switch. Lockdowns ...2 hours ago
- Axing stamp duty is a great idea, but NSW is going about it the wrong waySource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Freebairn, Professor, Department of Economics, University of Melbourne In tax design as in many endeavours, it’s easy to work out how things should be; harder to work out how to get there. In NSW, Treasurer Dominic Perrottet wants to replace the ...2 hours ago
- 5 reasons why banishing backpackers and targeting wealthy tourists would be a mistake for NZSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By James Higham, Professor of Tourism, University of Otago Raise your hand if you’ve ever travelled for weeks or months as a backpacker on a limited daily budget. Keep your hand up if you were made welcome in the places you visited on ...2 hours ago
- 10 ‘lost’ Australian literary treasures you should read – and can soon borrow from any librarySource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rebecca Giblin, ARC Future Fellow; Associate Professor; Director, Intellectual Property Research Institute of Australia, University of Melbourne Many culturally important books by Australian authors are out of print, hard to find as secondhand copies, and confined to the physical shelves of a ...2 hours ago
- Māori, Crown must work in partnership for children – Kelvin Davis
The minister for children says he is "not into separatism" and that Oranga Tamariki needs to work in partnership with Māori. ...2 hours ago - Live updates, November 24: Stricter rules lead to nurse shortage at managed isolation hotelsWelcome to The Spinoff’s live updates for November 24. Reach me on stewart@thespinoff.co.nz7.50am: Nurse shortage at Auckland managed isolation hotelsNurses helping to keep the community safe from Covid-19 are having to work overtime, or take on double shifts, to fill gaps in the system, according to RNZ.Healthcare workers have also ...2 hours ago
- The Bulletin: Shifts in foreign policy since the electionsGood morning and welcome to The Bulletin. In today’s edition: Shifts in foreign policy since the elections, government increasingly looking to fast-track through RMA, and Andy Foster gets into bizarre tent tangle.All things being equal, which US president would you enjoy a twenty minute conversation with more – Joe Biden ...3 hours ago
- Retail sales set Sept quarter record
Business & Investing: Total retail sales down just 0.2 percent for the year to October, but Europe's economic activity falls again due to the resurgence of Covid-19 ...3 hours ago - Mammy, Eve, and Jesus: A personal essay by Noelle McCarthy
Noelle McCarthy returns home in this prize-winning personal essay "Get in ‘til you see what we got you. This is my daughter.” Mammy is loud, showing off for the driver. The cab smells of drink and Estee Lauder. Wherever they’ve been, they’ve been there all morning. Angela is jammed in ...4 hours ago - Push for inclusive Covid recovery through sharp increase to minimum wage
Former Prime Minister Helen Clark's thinktank says no-one should be left behind in Covid recovery. ...4 hours ago - Holly Stewart passes tennis racquet to a new generation
Young tennis star Holly Stewart's first year at a US college was cut short by the global pandemic, but she's making the most of her time back home in NZ, giving back to young women with less opportunity. Holly Stewart knows how much a hand up can help change the ...4 hours ago - How Billy TK is using the far right
Billy TK is not a duped victim of far-right interests, but is instead employing their conspiracies for his own NZ-style conservative Evangelical purposes, writes Dr Deane Galbraith In dozens of online videos, Billy Te Kahika has told hundreds of thousands of viewers that the Covid-19 crisis obscures a massive conspiracy. He doesn’t use ...4 hours ago - Tracking Covid-19's creep across a flight to NZ
Analysis: A new study shows how Covid-19 spread on an 18-hour flight from Dubai to Auckland, eventually infecting four people on-board and another in MIQ, Marc Daalder reports On September 28, Emirates Airlines flight 448 departed Dubai for Auckland with 86 passengers on board and a full complement of aircrew. ...4 hours ago - The (potential) path ahead for NZ First
As W R Peters puts another $120k towards the party, can NZ First rise again in 2023? ...4 hours ago - Locals can't fill hole left by international tourists
Domestic tourism is booming as Kiwis get out and explore the country but without international tourists New Zealand will face a deficit of nearly $13 billion. Mark Jennings reports. It takes 12 overnight trips from someone living in New Zealand to equal the spend of one international visitor. New research ...4 hours ago - The searing report linking popular NZ brands to sexual abuse and slaveryAn investigation has found that workers on many palm oil plantations suffer shocking levels of abuse and exposure to chemicals so toxic they can cause miscarriage. But, as Amal Samaha explains, a consumer boycott of the brands that use the oil may not be the answer.Some of New Zealand’s most ...5 hours ago
- Coming Home: Who’s returning to New Zealand, and what did they leave behind?In part two of Coming Home, hosts Duncan Greive and Jane Yee meet more recently returned New Zealanders and learn what factors drew them abroad and what life looked like in their new home countries.Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you usually listen to podcasts.In last week’s episode, we heard about ...5 hours ago
- Building pressure
There's no quick fix to the housing problem but the Government knows that, with this sort of political pressure, something's got to give. ...5 hours ago - The Reserve Bank's housing storm
The Reserve Bank has been caught up in a political furore over the housing crisis. Is it really the Bank's fault that the levers it pulls have seen prices spiral out of control? The Reserve Bank is under attack for pouring fuel on the house price bonfire with its latest ...5 hours ago - Scott Morrison’s message to China: Don’t pigeonhole usSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Australia’s actions should not be seen just through the lens of the strategic competition between China and the United States, Scott Morrison has said in a speech rejecting “binary choices”. With China casting Australia as ...10 hours ago
- PM defends temporary suspension of Facebook until new law in placeBy Robert Iroga in Honiara Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare insists his government will push on with the temporary suspension of Facebook while lawmakers explore ways to regulate social media. In a statement in Parliament today, a fired-up Sogavare did not hide his government’s desire to suspend Facebook. He ...13 hours ago
- Daniel Andrews plans pilot for casual workers’ sick pay but Morrison government criticalSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra The Victorian government plans a pilot scheme for up to five days sick and carer’s pay, at the national minimum wage, for casuals or insecure workers in priority industries. Even though the initiative is at ...14 hours ago
- National Party announces terms of reference for election campaign reviewThe review will be done by five panel members, including former party president Judy Kirk and former National minister Kate Wilkinson. ...14 hours ago
- Prosecuting within complex criminal networks is hard. Data analysis could save the courts precious t...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Roberto Musotto, Cyber Security Cooperative Research Centre Postdoctoral Fellow, Edith Cowan University It’s no secret the trail of data we leave online can reveal intimate details about our lives. And there are myriad people whose job it is to collect and sift ...15 hours ago
- Physio, chiro, osteo and myo: what’s the difference and which one should I get?Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Charlotte Ganderton, Lecturer, Swinburne University of Technology, Swinburne University of Technology Many of us might not be as fit as we were before the pandemic hit, and as community sport restarts and gyms reopen across the country amid eased coronavirus restrictions, some ...15 hours ago
- Fiji tries to salvage Nations Cup rugby tour from covid ruinsBy RNZ Pacific Fiji’s rugby team is set to have another round of covid-19 testing today as they seek to salvage what is left of their Autumn Nations Cup tour of Europe. Over the weekend it was announced the Flying Fijians would have their third consecutive test match cancelled due ...16 hours ago
- Keith Rankin Analysis – Fixing the 2020 New Zealand House Price BubbleAnalysis by Keith Rankin. Keith Rankin. To the surprise of most pundits, substantial real estate price inflation has resumed, after a hiatus from 2017 to 2019. As to be expected, most of the usual tropes have been employed: a lack of supply, immigration (in this latest case returning New Zealanders), ...16 hours ago
- Human Rights Commission Welcomes Calls For Transformation Of Oranga Tamariki...17 hours ago
- No one escaped COVID’s impacts, but big fall in tertiary enrolments was 80% women. Why?Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Brendan Churchill, Research Fellow in Sociology, University of Melbourne The disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has been so profound, particularly for women, that it threatens to upend the progress on gender equality in recent years. During the lockdown, women were doing ...18 hours ago
- Action 1 December And 3 December For XR Te Whanganui A TaraTwo actions soon, please join us. 1. Demand Action on Western Sahara When : Tuesday 1 December at 8:30 am Join us on Tuesday, December 1, 8.30am at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, 195a Lambton Quay, Te Whanganui-a-Tara (corner of Panama St). ...18 hours ago
- Three new infrastructure projects to be fast-tracked – Ardern, ParkerPrime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Environment Minister David Parker have announced three new projects to be fast-tracked past the Resource Management Act. ...18 hours ago
- Tree Planting As Resistance; A Memorial For Pouya Bakhtiari, The Face Of Iran's Bloody NovemberBy Ali Mostolizadeh Translated by Abbas Alizadeh Pouya Bakhtiari, a 27-year old graduate of electrical engineering, was never able to celebrate his 28th birthday. His family celebrated Pouya’s birthday in Behesht-e Sakineh Cemetery in Karaj. ...18 hours ago
- Watch live: Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's post-Cabinet conferencePrime Minister Jacinda Ardern is speaking to media after today's Cabinet meeting. ...18 hours ago
- Oranga Tamariki Reforms Must Address Systemic Racism And Unsafe WorkloadsThe union for Oranga Tamariki employees says Te Kuku O Te Manawa - the Children’s Commissioner’s Report on Oranga Tamariki - highlights the need for deep and far-reaching change, both at OT and throughout New Zealand society. Oranga Tamariki staff are ...18 hours ago
- Oranga Tamariki Reforms Must Address Systemic Racism And Unsafe WorkloadsThe union for Oranga Tamariki employees says Te Kuku O Te Manawa - the Children’s Commissioner’s Report on Oranga Tamariki - highlights the need for deep and far-reaching change, both at OT and throughout New Zealand society. Oranga Tamariki staff are ...18 hours ago
- Ardern speaks with US President-elect Joe BidenPrime Minister Jacinda Ardern has spoken on the phone with the US President-elect Joe Biden this afternoon. ...18 hours ago
- My favourite detective: Trixie Belden, the uncool girl sleuth with a sensitive moral compassSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tanya Dalziell, Associate Professor, English and Literary Studies, University of Western Australia In a new series, writers pay tribute to fictional detectives on page and on screen. Trixie Belden, girl detective, does not rank in the world’s pantheon of cool sleuths. ...18 hours ago
- Give a kid a book and you give them the worldLast year the fledgling charity scheme Kiwi Christmas Books gave 1600 children’s books to Auckland Women’s Refuge and the Auckland City Mission. This year they’re going national, as founder Sonya Wilson explains.My earliest memories involve books. Kew Hospital, circa 1983: I remember stiff scratchy sheets, red jelly on a grey ...19 hours ago
- Green MP Applauded For Brave Stance On Accommodation Supplement...20 hours ago
- Dietary Requirements: What is seltzer and why is it suddenly everywhere?The Dietary Requirements team drag Lucy and Matt out of the office and into the studio to discuss some of The Spinoff’s most controversial food topics from the past week.Exciting news – Dietary Requirements is moving from monthly to fortnightly episodes! We’ll still have a special guest from the food ...20 hours ago
- How the Nats have opted to invest in the future with small change
A post on the left-wing The Standard blog expresses bemusement at National’s re-election of its party president. MickySavage writes: You would think that the conference held immediately after National suffered one of its worst drubbings in its history National would take the opportunity to refresh its leadership and change its ...21 hours ago - The Labour Government Gaslights People In PovertyThe government issued a response letter to the open letter which now has support from 70 organisations in New Zealand, calling them to lift benefits and low incomes to liveable levels before Christmas. In their response they outline what they’ve ...21 hours ago
- Wellington Mayor’s Tent-pitching Undermines Democracy, Ratepayers, And Property Rights...21 hours ago
- Take action to save lives in West Papua, activists tell ForumBy Laurens Ikinia in Auckland A Pacific Islands Forum-hosted webinar has called on the United Nations and Indonesia to be “more responsive” to the pleas of West Papuans and take action to resolve human rights issues in the Melanesian region. The Secretary-General of the Forum, Dame Meg Taylor, the secretary-general ...22 hours ago
- Siouxsie Wiles: Aches on a plane – new findings on in-flight Covid transmissionA new New Zealand study offers some important lessons on how the coronavirus can spread aboard an aircraft. One of the good things about New Zealand pursuing an elimination strategy for Covid-19 (aside from the obvious) is that we are able to help answer some of the questions there are about ...22 hours ago
- Green Party reveals portfolio reshuffle ahead of official Parliament openingThe Green Party has unveiled an unsurprising portfolio reshuffle, ahead of the official opening of Parliament this week. ...22 hours ago
- Why does New Zealand love Country Calendar so much?And the one change that would make it even better.It’s been on telly for 50-odd years, it frequently tops the weekly ratings and it just won best factual series at the 2020 NZ TV Awards. What is it about Country Calendar that we just can’t get enough of? José Barbosa ...23 hours ago
- Indonesian security forces attack Papuan musician, say activistsPacific Media Watch Newsdesk A young West Papuan musician, Kris Douw, who has written many powerful protest songs against Indonesia’s illegal military occupation in his homeland, has been beaten up by security forces, allege activists. Douw was atacked about 8am on by Indonesian special forces at the Kodim Complex ...24 hours ago
- Inquiry: Turn child protection over to Māori
The latest official inquiry into the removal of babies by Oranga Tamariki calls directly for power and resources to be given to Māori to provide care and protection for their children The Children's Commissioner wants a "total transformation" of the country's system of care and protection for children - transferring resources ...24 hours ago - Kirihimete gift guide 2020: supporting Māori and Pasifika businesses and creatorsIt’s never been more important to support local. Janaye Henry has brought her exceptional taste to the fore to help you support Māori and Pasifika-owned business this Christmas (and just all year round if you want). Kirihimete is fast approaching and what better excuse to support our Māori and Pasifika creators? ...1 day ago
- John Key backs Peter Goodfellow, Judith Collins after National Party AGMNational members copped a handful home truths at its AGM over the weekend, and former leader Sir John Key says it's time for the party to take control of the media narrative. ...1 day ago
- Newsletter: New Zealand Politics Daily – November 23 2020Editor’s Note: Here below is a list of the main issues currently under discussion in New Zealand and links to media coverage. Today’s content National Party Sam Sachdeva (Newsroom): Mixed messages in wake of National’s defeat Richard Harman: Goodfellow beats off challenge and calls for unity Tracy Watkins (Stuff): Sir John Key’s speech a chilling ...1 day ago
- Jacinda Ardern not surprised by China's threat to 'pluck out eyes' of criticsPrime Minister Jacinda Ardern is calling China's threats to "pluck out the eyes" of nations criticising it over it's approach to Hong Kong a "strong response". ...1 day ago
- Face masks cut disease spread in the lab, but have less impact in the community. We need to know whySource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paul Glasziou, Professor of Medicine, Bond University In controlled laboratory situations, face masks appear to do a good job of reducing the spread of coronavirus (at least in hamsters) and other respiratory viruses. However, evidence shows mask-wearing policies seem to have had ...1 day ago
- Albanese is running out of time to solve Labor’s climate crisis. He needs a plan that works for tw...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mark Kenny, Professor, Australian Studies Institute, Australian National University During the recent American elections, the most eye-catching graphics were were the individual county tallies. These showed that even when states appeared to be overwhelmingly Republican red, some still “flipped” to the Democrats ...1 day ago
- Humans are changing fire patterns, and it’s threatening 4,403 species with extinctionSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Luke Kelly, Senior Lecturer in Ecology and Centenary Research Fellow, University of Melbourne Last summer, many Australians were shocked to see fires sweep through the wet tropical rainforests of Queensland, where large and severe fires are almost unheard of. This is just ...1 day ago
- Who cares about university research? The answer depends on its impactsSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Martin Bliemel, Associate Dean of Research; Course Director, Diploma in Innovation, University of Technology Sydney This essay is based on the Impact at UTS podcast series. The audio series examines how a diverse range of researchers embed knowledge exchange and impact in ...1 day ago
- 3 out of 10 girls skip class because of painful periods. And most won’t talk to their teacher abou...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mike Armour, Senior research fellow, Western Sydney University More than one-third of young women in a nationwide survey said they missed at least one class, either at school or university, in the past three months due to menstrual symptoms, including pain and ...1 day ago
- Regional Australia’s time has come – planning for growth is now vitalSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tony Matthews, Senior Lecturer in Urban and Environmental Planning, Griffith University Australian governments have always wanted thriving regional cities, but policy innovations with this goal in mind have a bad history. Planned well, regional cities have huge potential to generate national economic ...1 day ago
- What matters is the home: review finds most retirees well off, some very badly offSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Helen Hodgson, Professor, Curtin Law School and Curtin Business School, Curtin University The government’s Retirement Incomes Review paints an encouraging picture of the finances of retired Australians. Most are at least as well off in retirement as they were while working, and ...1 day ago
- My favourite detective: Kurt Wallander — too grumpy to like, relatable enough to get under your sk...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kevin John Brophy, Emeritus Professor of Creative Writing, University of Melbourne In a new series, writers pay tribute to fictional detectives on page and on screen. As a detective’s apprentice for over 60 years now, I’ve had work-experience stretches in the ...1 day ago
- Live updates, November 23: Managed isolation scheme to go over budget, costing $2.4m a dayWelcome to The Spinoff’s live updates for November 23. Reach me on stewart@thespinoff.co.nz7.45am: Managed isolation scheme to go over budget, costing $2.4m a dayManaged isolation and quarantine is costing the country more than $2 million a day, according to figures released to RNZ.It means the government is likely to make ...1 day ago
- Support growing for four-year parliamentary term, poll showsMomentum to increase the parliamentary term to four years seems to be growing, an election law expert says after a new poll. ...1 day ago
- Billy Apple will live forever
Hamish Coney reviews a study of artist, enigma and brand ambassador Billy Apple "World famous in New Zealand", that phrase originally coined by a witty adman to spruik L&P could equally be applied to the artist Billy Apple. Apple’s own 1980s one-liner "The Artist has to ...1 day ago - The Bulletin: Contrasting visions on National’s defeat and futureGood morning and welcome the The Bulletin. In today’s edition: Contrasting visions on National’s defeat and future, St Johns ambulance in deep funding hole, and Tauranga mayor quits with call to sack council.Contrasting visions for why National lost the election so badly have been presented at the party’s AGM. As the NZ ...1 day ago
- NZ officials visit cash-strapped Rarotonga to plan travel bubble
As Cook Islands burn through their last dollars, they have welcomed New Zealand health and border control officials planning a travel bubble. ...1 day ago - National 'needed to be a unified team with a credible message' – David CarterNewly-minted National Party board member and former MP David Carter says he wouldn't have made the comments President Peter Goodfellow did to 550 delegates over the weekend. ...1 day ago
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