Down the rabbit hole
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8:17 am, November 17th, 2021 - 83 comments
Categories: covid-19, health, Judith Collins, national, same old national -
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Former National MP Matt King who Judith Collins thinks is a lovely guy, is in the news again. From Radio New Zealand:
The National Party is distancing itself from a former MP who has questioned the effectiveness of the Covid vaccine in a lengthy video that has been labelled dangerous.
Matt King was voted out as Northland MP last election after serving one term and has been a vocal critic of the government’s Covid-19 response in recent months.
Last week he hosted a 40-minute conversation on Facebook with University of Auckland epidemiologist Simon Thornley, during which the pair discussed ideas common in anti-vax groups.
In reply, on King’s public facebook page he has said this:
A week ago, I did a livestream with an experienced epidemiologist. In this livestream, I made it clear that the purpose of the livestream was to talk about the facts and figures about COVID-19 – not treatments or vaccinations.
Today’s Radio NZ report has extracted parts of this livestream out of context. I stand by my comments previously that I am against mandates, and I believe that the COVID response needs to be multi-layered – vaccinations are part of the response, not the only response.
My views are mine, and I consider it my duty to have an open and honest conversation with people looking for an avenue to discuss the issues that they have questions or concerns about. There is an avalanche of information in the public arena – however, it lacks any critical thinking.
The ability to debate issues can often alleviate concerns – discussion is a way to debate the issues. That is my intention, and I will continue to advocate for people who are looking to have an open and honest discussion, irrespective of which side of politics or issues they sit on.
It is a well-known fact that the vaccine roll-out has been a shambles, so while it might seem opportunistic to blame someone for this now, let’s look beyond the past week. It’s a shame that Radio NZ and other news outlets didn’t pick up my previous livestream on the biased media in New Zealand – and the role they play in suppressing freedom of speech in our democratic nation, and their inability to hold the Govt to account!”
I don’t think the comment was overblown. The excerpts played by Radio New Zealand include the following comments:
- The Vaccine does not affect the transmission of Covid.
- Covid is as bad as a severe flu.
- The evidence that Ivermectin is useful is epidemiologically sound and strong.
Thornley’s fellow Epidemiologist Rod Jackson was interviewed and thought that the claim was rubbish and delivered Thornley a real serve. He said this:
“There is no trial evidence that Ivermectin works in people with Covid. It doesn’t exist. There are trials going on, which is appropriate, but there is no trial evidence.
This is typical of Simon [Thornley] and typical of many of the people who are against vaccination and against the New Zealand approach to addressing Covid. And that is they pull out little bits of largely irrelevant information and don’t look at the whole context.
… This is a severe disease and we have an evidence based treatment where there is definitive evidence that it reduces the risk of severe disease and death by 95%, in that order. And we have someone who is questioning that evidence who doesn’t know what they are talking about talking to an epidimiologist who doesn’t know what he is talking about. I think it is dangerous, because people could die.
As for the “shambolic roll out”of the vaccine the evidence would beg to differ. New Zealand is in the top half of the rollout in the OECD and our daily vaccine dose numbers are still relatively high. The country is advancing towards the 90% vaccination rate, a level which many countries can only dream about.
Collins’s response is interesting. She still thinks there is viable political support in a nation where in the near future over 90% of the population will be vaccinated.
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- Release: Huge hole in National’s climate budgetNational’s plan to cut policies that are reducing New Zealand’s climate emissions will result in a huge gap in the country’s emissions budgets and could see Kiwis paying significantly more at the petrol pump as a result of Christopher Luxon hiking the ETS price. ...7 days ago
- Greens would push Labour much further on solar powerLabour’s plan to support rooftop solar is a step in the right direction, but falls short of what could be achieved through the Green Party’s Clean Power Payment. ...1 week ago
- Release: Doubling rooftop solar to reduce bills & emissionsLabour will double the number of houses with rooftop solar in New Zealand, lowering household power bills, reducing emissions and boosting renewable electricity generation. ...1 week ago
- Release: Labour will advance women’s health, careers, and legal protectionsA re-elected Labour Government will continue its proud tradition of advancing women’s health, employment, and legal rights Spokesperson for Women Jan Tinetti said. ...1 week ago
- Green Party confirms plan for five weeks annual leaveSpeaking at the E Tū Election Launch in Auckland today, Green Party co leader Marama Davidson outlined the Green Party’s manifesto commitment to ensure everyone has five weeks of annual leave. ...1 week ago
- Release: Labour to keep lifting worker wages and rightsA re-elected Labour Government will protect hard-fought workers’ rights and keep the momentum on wage growth to lift incomes for all New Zealanders, leader Chris Hipkins announced today. ...1 week ago
- New Zealand First Party List 2023New Zealand First is proud to announce the Party List for the upcoming 2023 General Election. We have had a great number of applicants and potential candidates moving through the selection process over the past few months. Our final selection for our list proves we have a wide range ...1 week ago
- A National/ACT Government would make life miserable for those already worst offOnly a party vote for the Greens will end poverty. ACT’S welfare policy announced today is as cruel as it gets. ...1 week ago
- Release: Willis’ resignation call means only one thing – $2 billion more cutsMassive cuts to public service are on the cards as Nicola Willis has promised to resign if she doesn’t deliver tax cuts but is refusing to make the same commitment if she doesn’t raise enough income from her bungled foreign buyer’s tax. ...1 week ago
- Release: A faster justice system focused on victimsLabour will help more victims of crime achieve justice faster by introducing a formal class-action regime, modernising consent laws and increasing the use of technology to speed up hearings. ...1 week ago
- Release: Gaping hole confirmed in National’s tax planA whopping $2.1 billion dollar hole has been confirmed in National’s tax scheme in a new report released today. ...2 weeks ago
- Labour pledges biggest ever increase to training DoctorsLabour will deliver the largest ever increase to the number of doctors trained each year, adding an additional 335 doctors a year to our health workforce from 2027, Labour Leader Chris Hipkins has announced. ...2 weeks ago
- PREFU Exposes Political PromisesToday’s PREFU has some alarming statistics showing an economy deteriorating and the cost of unaffordable government expenditure, mainly in the 2022 and 2023 budgets. Despite this alarming economic and fiscal picture, political parties are making unaffordable promises, talking about a surplus by 2027, or four years time, all of which ...2 weeks ago
- State of books makes clear case for wealth taxThe case for a wealth tax has never been stronger. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Labour pledges free cervical screeningIf re-elected Labour will make cervical screening services free to all women and people with a cervix aged 25 – 69 years, delivering better cancer care for over 1.4 million New Zealanders. ...2 weeks ago
- Chris Hipkins sets out 9 key pledges to New ZealandLabour Leader Chris Hipkins has set out nine key pledges to be achieved in his first full term as Prime Minister. ...2 weeks ago
- Labour's Plan 2023Labour is running a positive, forward-looking campaign that's focused on fixing the cost of living, keeping people and communities safe and investing in education, health and housing. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Coalition of Cuts and Chaos would be NZ’s most unstable governmentStatements from David Seymour and Winston Peters have called into question whether National would be able to lead a functional government if they were in a position to do so after the election. ...2 weeks ago
- Healthy Ocean Act – Marama Davidson SpeechHe mōhio ō tātou tīpuna ki te tirotiro taiao. ...2 weeks ago
- Greens will demand Minister for Oceans and Fisheries to lead ocean rescue planThe Green Party will protect 30% of the ocean by 2030, create an independent Ocean Commission to advise the government, and put a Green Minister for Oceans and Fisheries in charge of making it happen. ...2 weeks ago
- Plan for 3,000 more public homes by 2025 – regions set to benefit
Regions around the country will get significant boosts of public housing in the next two years, as outlined in the latest public housing plan update, released by the Housing Minister, Dr Megan Woods. “We’re delivering the most public homes each year since the Nash government of the 1950s with one ...1 day ago - Immigration settings updatesJudicial warrant process for out-of-hours compliance visits 2023/24 Recognised Seasonal Employer cap increased by 500 Additional roles for Construction and Infrastructure Sector Agreement More roles added to Green List Three-month extension for onshore Recovery Visa holders The Government has confirmed a number of updates to immigration settings as part of ...2 days ago
- Poroporoaki: Tā Patrick (Patu) Wahanga HohepaTangi ngunguru ana ngā tai ki te wahapū o Hokianga Whakapau Karakia. Tārehu ana ngā pae maunga ki Te Puna o te Ao Marama. Korihi tangi ana ngā manu, kua hinga he kauri nui ki te Wao Nui o Tāne. He Toa. He Pou. He Ahorangi. E papaki tū ana ...3 days ago
- COVID-19 funding returned to GovernmentThe lifting of COVID-19 isolation and mask mandates in August has resulted in a return of almost $50m in savings and recovered contingencies, Minister of Health Dr Ayesha Verrall announced today. Following the revocation of mandates and isolation, specialised COVID-19 telehealth and alternative isolation accommodation are among the operational elements ...3 days ago
- Appointment of District Court JudgeSusie Houghton of Auckland has been appointed as a new District Court Judge, to serve on the Family Court, Attorney-General David Parker said today. Judge Houghton has acted as a lawyer for child for more than 20 years. She has acted on matters relating to the Hague Convention, an international ...3 days ago
- Government invests further in Central Hawke’s Bay resilienceThe Government has today confirmed $2.5 million to fund a replace and upgrade a stopbank to protect the Waipawa Drinking Water Treatment Plant. “As a result of Cyclone Gabrielle, the original stopbank protecting the Waipawa Drinking Water Treatment Plant was destroyed. The plant was operational within 6 weeks of the ...4 days ago
- Govt boost for Hawke’s Bay cyclone waste clean-upAnother $2.1 million to boost capacity to deal with waste left in Cyclone Gabrielle’s wake. Funds for Hastings District Council, Phoenix Contracting and Hog Fuel NZ to increase local waste-processing infrastructure. The Government is beefing up Hawke’s Bay’s Cyclone Gabrielle clean-up capacity with more support dealing with the massive amount ...4 days ago
- Taupō Supercars revs up with Government supportThe future of Supercars events in New Zealand has been secured with new Government support. The Government is getting engines started through the Major Events Fund, a special fund to support high profile events in New Zealand that provide long-term economic, social and cultural benefits. “The Repco Supercars Championship is ...4 days ago
- There is no recession in NZ, economy grows nearly 1 percent in June quarterThe economy has turned a corner with confirmation today New Zealand never was in recession and stronger than expected growth in the June quarter, Finance Minister Grant Robertson said. “The New Zealand economy is doing better than expected,” Grant Robertson said. “It’s continuing to grow, with the latest figures showing ...4 days ago
- Highest legal protection for New Zealand’s largest freshwater springsThe Government has accepted the Environment Court’s recommendation to give special legal protection to New Zealand’s largest freshwater springs, Te Waikoropupū Springs (also known as Pupū Springs), Environment Minister David Parker announced today. “Te Waikoropupū Springs, near Takaka in Golden Bay, have the second clearest water in New Zealand after ...4 days ago
- More support for victims of migrant exploitationTemporary package of funding for accommodation and essential living support for victims of migrant exploitation Exploited migrant workers able to apply for a further Migrant Exploitation Protection Visa (MEPV), giving people more time to find a job Free job search assistance to get people back into work Use of 90-day ...5 days ago
- Strong export boost as NZ economy turns cornerAn export boost is supporting New Zealand’s economy to grow, adding to signs that the economy has turned a corner and is on a stronger footing as we rebuild from Cyclone Gabrielle and lock in the benefits of multiple new trade deals, Finance Minister Grant Robertson says. “The economy is ...5 days ago
- Funding approved for flood resilience work in Te KarakaThe Government has approved $15 million to raise about 200 homes at risk of future flooding. More than half of this is expected to be spent in the Tairāwhiti settlement of Te Karaka, lifting about 100 homes there. “Te Karaka was badly hit during Cyclone Gabrielle when the Waipāoa River ...5 days ago
- Further business support for cyclone-affected regionsThe Government is helping businesses recover from Cyclone Gabrielle and attract more people back into their regions. “Cyclone Gabrielle has caused considerable damage across North Island regions with impacts continuing to be felt by businesses and communities,” Economic Development Minister Barbara Edmonds said. “Building on our earlier business support, this ...5 days ago
- New maintenance facility at Burnham Military Camp underwayDefence Minister Andrew Little has turned the first sod to start construction of a new Maintenance Support Facility (MSF) at Burnham Military Camp today. “This new state-of-art facility replaces Second World War-era buildings and will enable our Defence Force to better maintain and repair equipment,” Andrew Little said. “This Government ...5 days ago
- Foreign Minister to attend United Nations General AssemblyForeign Minister Nanaia Mahuta will represent New Zealand at the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York this week, before visiting Washington DC for further Pacific focussed meetings. Nanaia Mahuta will be in New York from Wednesday 20 September, and will participate in UNGA leaders ...6 days ago
- Midwives’ pay equity offer reachedAround 1,700 Te Whatu Ora employed midwives and maternity care assistants will soon vote on a proposed pay equity settlement agreed by Te Whatu Ora, the Midwifery Employee Representation and Advisory Service (MERAS) and New Zealand Nurses Association (NZNO), Minister of Health Dr Ayesha Verrall announced today. “Addressing historical pay ...1 week ago
- New Zealand provides support to MoroccoAotearoa New Zealand will provide humanitarian support to those affected by last week’s earthquake in Morocco, Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta announced today. “We are making a contribution of $1 million to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) to help meet humanitarian needs,” Nanaia Mahuta said. ...2 weeks ago
- Government invests in West Coast’s roading resilienceThe Government is investing over $22 million across 18 projects to improve the resilience of roads in the West Coast that have been affected by recent extreme weather, Prime Minister Chris Hipkins confirmed today. A dedicated Transport Resilience Fund has been established for early preventative works to protect the state ...2 weeks ago
- Government invests in Greymouth’s futureThe Government has today confirmed a $2 million grant towards the regeneration of Greymouth’s CBD with construction of a new two-level commercial and public facility. “It will include a visitor facility centred around a new library. Additionally, it will include retail outlets on the ground floor, and both outdoor and ...2 weeks ago
- Nanaia Mahuta to attend PIF Foreign Ministers’ MeetingForeign Minister Nanaia Mahuta will attend the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, in Suva, Fiji alongside New Zealand’s regional counterparts. “Aotearoa New Zealand is deeply committed to working with our pacific whanau to strengthen our cooperation, and share ways to combat the challenges facing the Blue Pacific Continent,” ...2 weeks ago
- PREFU shows no recession, growing economy, more jobs and wages ahead of inflationEconomy to grow 2.6 percent on average over forecast period Treasury not forecasting a recession Inflation to return to the 1-3 percent target band next year Wages set to grow 4.8 percent a year over forecast period Unemployment to peak below the long-term average Fiscal Rules met - Net debt ...2 weeks ago
- New cancer centre opens in ChristchurchPrime Minister Chris Hipkins and Minister of Health Dr Ayesha Verrall proudly opened the Canterbury Cancer Centre in Christchurch today. The new facility is the first of its kind and was built with $6.5 million of funding from the Government’s Infrastructure Reference Group scheme for shovel-ready projects allocated in 2020. ...2 weeks ago
- Government invests in top of the south’s roading resilience$12 million to improve the resilience of roads in the Nelson, Marlborough and Tasman regions Hope Bypass earmarked in draft Government Policy Statement on land transport $127 million invested in the top of the south’s roads since flooding in 2021 and 2022 The Government is investing over $12 million to ...2 weeks ago
- New Zealanders continue to support the revitalisation of te reo as we celebrate Te Wiki o te Reo Mā...Ko tēnei te wiki e whakanui ana i tō tātou reo rangatira. Ko te wā tuku reo Māori, e whakanuia tahitia ai te reo ahakoa kei hea ake tēnā me tēnā o tātou, ka tū ā te Rātū te 14 o Mahuru, ā te 12 o ngā hāora i te ahiahi. ...2 weeks ago
- New Wildlife Act to better protect native speciesThe 70-year-old Wildlife Act will be replaced with modern, fit-for-purpose legislation to better protect native species and improve biodiversity, Minister of Conservation Willow-Jean Prime has announced. “New species legislation is urgently needed to address New Zealand’s biodiversity crisis,” Willow-Jean Prime said. “More than 4,000 of our native species are currently ...2 weeks ago
- Further safety initiatives for Auckland City CentreCentral and Local Government are today announcing a range of new measures to tackle low-level crime and anti-social behaviour in the Auckland CBD to complement Police scaling up their presence in the area. “Police have an important role to play in preventing and responding to crime, but there is more ...2 weeks ago
- Govt confirms additional support for Enabling Good LivesThe Government has confirmed $73.7 million over the next four years and a further $40.5m in outyears to continue to transform the disability support system, Minister for Disability Issues Priyanca Radhakrishnan has announced. “The Enabling Good Lives (EGL) approach is a framework which guides positive change for disabled people, ...2 weeks ago
- New Zealand gets AAA credit rating from S&PStandard and Poor’s is the latest independent credit rating agency to endorse the Government’s economic management in the face of a deteriorating global economy. S&P affirmed New Zealand’s long term local currency rating at AAA and foreign currency rating at AA+ with a stable outlook. It follows Fitch affirming New ...2 weeks ago
- Appointment of Environment Court JudgeChristchurch barrister Kelvin Reid has been appointed as a Judge of the Environment Court and the District Court, Attorney-General David Parker announced today. Mr Reid has extensive experience in Resource Management Act issues, including water quality throughout the South Island. He was appointed to the Technical Advisory Group advising the ...2 weeks ago
- NZ’s biggest ever emissions reduction project hits milestoneNew Zealand is on track to have greener steel as soon as 2026 with New Zealand Steel’s electric arc furnace project reaching a major milestone today. The Government announced a conditional partnership with New Zealand Steel in May to deliver the country’s largest emissions reduction project to date. Half of ...2 weeks ago
- Poroporoaki: Paki Leslie Māngai NikoraPokia ana te tihi Taiarahia e Hine-Pūkohu-rangi Hotu kau ana te manawa! Horahia ana te whārua o Ruātoki e te kapua pouri Tikaro rawahia ko te whatumanawa! Rere whakamuri kau ana te awa o Hinemataroa Ki te kawe i te rongo ki te mātāpuna i nga pōngaihu Maungapōhatu, tuohu ...3 weeks ago
- 50,000 charges laid in crack down on gangsPolice Minister Ginny Andersen has today congratulated Police in their efforts to crack down on gangs, after laying 50,000 charges against gang members and their associates through the hugely successful Operation Cobalt. As at 31 August, Police have: Laid 50,396 criminal charges against gang members and their associates Issued 64,524 ...3 weeks ago
- Farmers and cyclone-affected properties supported with tax rule changesThe Government has confirmed details of the tax changes to the bright-line test for cyclone-damaged properties, with the release of the required legislative amendments. Revenue Minister Barbara Edmonds has released a Supplementary Order Paper (SOP) to be considered by the Finance and Expenditure Committee in the next Parliament, as it ...3 weeks ago
- New Zealand wins CPTPP dispute against CanadaMinister for Trade and Export Growth Damien O’Connor has welcomed the CPTPP Panel’s ruling in favour of New Zealand in our dispute against Canada, a significant win for our primary sector exporters. The Panel found that Canada’s dairy quota administration is inconsistent with its obligations under the Comprehensive and Progressive ...3 weeks ago
- New intensive turnaround programme launched to break the cycle of offendingThe next phase of the Government’s response to youth crime is underway, with an intensive programme for the country’s most prolific young offenders launched today in Auckland, Minister for Children Kelvin Davis said. The programme, announced by Prime Minister Chris Hipkins in July, will see up to 60 recidivist young ...3 weeks ago
- Government extends report date for COVID inquiryThe Government has agreed to a request from the Royal Commission of Inquiry into COVID-19 for extra three months to deliver its final report. The Royal Commission was established in 2022 to strengthen New Zealand’s preparedness for any future pandemics. It was originally due to conclude mid-2024. “The Commission has ...3 weeks ago
- Election 2023: The tertiary education policies in two minutes
Hundreds of thousands of New Zealanders engage with the tertiary education sector each year. Here’s everything you need to know about funding, governance, student allowances, fees and research in two minutes. See more from our policy in two minutes series here. More than 300,000 New Zealanders are enrolled in programmes ...36 mins ago - Government’s employment white paper commits to jobs for all who want them – and help to get them
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra The employment white paper, released on Monday, has outlined multiple measures the Albanese government will implement to assist the about three million people who want jobs or more hours of work. They include making ...40 mins ago - Government’s employment white paper commits to jobs for all who want them – and help to get themSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra The employment white paper, released on Monday, has outlined multiple measures the Albanese government will implement to assist the about three million people who want jobs or more hours of work. They include making ...40 mins ago
- What it’s like to wear the most expensive diamond ring in New ZealandThe biggest and most expensive diamond ring to be auctioned in New Zealand went under the hammer in Auckland on Sunday. In the name of luxury, Gabi Lardies went and tried it on. The bubbles are on ice, the scented candles are lit and I am quite explicit about not ...42 mins ago
- Do blue-light glasses really work? Can they reduce eye strain or help me sleep?Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Laura Downie, Associate Professor in Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne Shutterstock Blue-light glasses are said to reduce eye strain when using computers, improve your sleep and protect your eye health. You can buy them yourself or your ...55 mins ago
- Do blue-light glasses really work? Can they reduce eye strain or help me sleep?Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Laura Downie, Associate Professor in Optometry and Vision Sciences, The University of Melbourne Shutterstock Blue-light glasses are said to reduce eye strain when using computers, improve your sleep and protect your eye health. You can buy them yourself or your ...55 mins ago
- Labour’s Climate Manifesto – Commendable Condiments But Missing The ‘main Meal’
Greenpeace Aotearoa says the Labour Party’s Climate Manifesto, launched today, reads like a shopping list of condiments that has missed off the main meal: action on New Zealand’s biggest climate polluter, intensive dairy. "There are many ...56 mins ago - Labour’s Climate Announcement Is Economically And Scientifically IlliterateResponding to the release of Labour’s Climate Manifesto, Taxpayers’ Union Deputy Campaigns Manager, Connor Molloy, said: "Yet again, we are seeing a swathe of policies that fail to recognise the genius and effectiveness of our existing Emissions ...1 hour ago
- National-Act-NZ First government would be ‘rightwing circus’, says HipkinsAt his press conference to launch Labour’s climate manifesto in New Plymouth today, Chris Hipkins was quick to offer his thoughts on Christopher Luxon finally admitting National would work with New Zealand First to form the next government if it needed to. “I want to for once in my life ...1 hour ago
- Labour and National bicker over climate policy as Hipkins releases manifestoChris Hipkins has released Labour’s “climate manifesto”, which brings together a range of existing policies plus adds a handful of new ones. These include a plan for a “minister for just transitions” to oversee New Zealand’s transition to a low-emissions economy, and to a plan to invest an additional $300 ...1 hour ago
- New to streaming: What to watch on Netflix NZ, Neon and more this weekWhat are you going to be watching this week? We round up everything coming to streaming services this week, including Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, Apple TV+, ThreeNow, Neon and TVNZ+. The biggies Neighbours: The Return (on Prime Video from September 25) Neighbours is back, baby. The long-running Australian soap that ended ...2 hours ago
- Luxon's call on NZ First could come back to bite him
Christopher Luxon has given the voters what they wanted – transparency on who National will work with. But, in doing so, some of his supporters worry he may have given New Zealand First a boost. Comment: National Party supporters at a meet and greet in Matamata with Christopher Luxon were ...2 hours ago - Te Whatu Ora Must Stand By Employees’ Rights To Freedom Of Thought And Speech25 September 2023 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Te Whatu Ora must stand by employees’ rights to freedom of thought and speech The Free Speech Union insists that Te Whatu Ora stand by their employees’ rights of freedom of thought and speech ...2 hours ago
- Te Whatu Ora Must Stand By Employees’ Rights To Freedom Of Thought And Speech...2 hours ago
- NZ election 2023: Bryce Edwards: The most hollow campaign in living memoryThe 2023 general election campaign must be the most hollow in living memory. There really isn’t much that is positive or attractive about the electoral options on offer. This is an election without inspiration. There is a definite gloominess among the public right now — with a perception that not ...2 hours ago
- Severe Weather Demands Voters' AttentionMore severe weather and floods in regions demand voters’ attention. Floods in Queenstown and Southland, wildfires in South Canterbury, and further risk of flood in Gisborne, are a warning that the biggest issue in this election has to be climate ...3 hours ago
- Labor and Albanese recover in Newspoll as Dutton falls, but the Voice’s slump continuesSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne A national Newspoll, conducted September 18–22 from a sample of 1,239, gave Labor a 54–46 lead, a one-point gain for Labor since ...3 hours ago
- Peters defends decision on 2017 coalition and repeats Bill English claimsWinston Peters has repeated his claim that Bill English said he was about to be rolled as National leader during negotiations after the 2017 election. According to the New Zealand First leader, English said during post-election negotiations that he was about to lose his position as leader of National. It’s ...3 hours ago
- Luxon left looking ‘slow and expedient’ after Peters rule-in announcementWe’ve been waiting weeks months for a captain’s call from Christopher Luxon on whether or not he’d work with Winston Peters – and that finally came today. As I detailed this morning, Luxon, in a video shared to social media, finally admitted he would work with Peters if necessary after ...4 hours ago
- Are fish oil supplements as healthy as we think? And is eating fish better?Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Evangeline Mantzioris, Program Director of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Accredited Practising Dietitian, University of South Australia Fish oil, which contains omega-3 fatty acids, is promoted for a number of health benefits – from boosting our heart health, protecting our brain from dementia, ...4 hours ago
- What lies behind Luxon’s change of heart on NZ First?The 11th-hour decision to rule in Winston Peters if necessary leaves the National leader looking slow and expedient. When Chris Hipkins declared last week that National’s polling was beyond its peak, it seemed born more of hope than data. It is hard to avoid concluding, however, that Christopher Luxon has ...5 hours ago
- Watch live: Election debate – Parties questioned on policies affecting Pasifika
RNZ Pacific has partnered with Pacific Media Network to question major parties on how their policies will affect Pacific peoples. ...5 hours ago - EPA Annual Charges On Forestry Participants Unlawful?...5 hours ago
- A teenager’s OCD journeyA 17-year-old shares their reality living with the ‘doubting disease’. A version of this essay was first published on Emily Writes’ Substack. Every day I return to my house, gently closing the door behind me. Each time I unpack my bag, wash my lunch box and water bottle, place my ...5 hours ago
- The ‘community of care’ improving the wellbeing of Sāmoan teachersAn ambitious initiative in Sāmoan early childhood centres is improving the health and wellbeing of children, families and teachers across Auckland – with aspirations to extend nationwide. The Seugagogo Aoga Amata Pre-School had humble beginnings. Situated close to the town centre of Auckland’s Ōtāhuhu and founded as a playgroup ...5 hours ago
- National would work with NZ FirstWelcome to The Spinoff’s election live updates for Monday, September 25. I’m Stewart Sowman-Lund: on deck today from the mighty Manawatū. Get in touch with me on [email protected] Find out more about the political parties at Policy.nz The agenda Christopher Luxon has confirmed he would work with Winston ...6 hours ago
- Election 2023: National Party confirms it could work with NZ FirstChristopher Luxon says his preference is to work with ACT in government, but could work with New Zealand First too. ...6 hours ago
- Is it ethical non-Indigenous people get to decide on the Voice? Is it OK for one group to have right...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paul Formosa, Professor and Head of the Department of Philosophy, and Co-Director of the Macquire University Ethics & Agency Research Centre, Macquarie University Australians will soon be asked to vote on whether we should “alter the Constitution to recognise the First Peoples ...7 hours ago
- America’s leaders are older than they’ve ever been. Why didn’t the founding fathers foresee th...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jared Mondschein, Director of Research, US Studies Centre, University of Sydney The US Congress has had no shortage of viral moments in recent months. Senator Dianne Feinstein seemingly became confused over how to vote. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell experienced two extended ...7 hours ago
- We need urban trees more than ever – here’s how to save them from extreme heatSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Renée M Prokopavicius, Postdoctoral Researcher in Plant Ecophysiology, Western Sydney University Torychemistry, Shutterstock Australians are bracing for a hot spring and summer. The Bureau of Meteorology has finally declared El Niño is underway, making warmer and drier conditions more likely for ...7 hours ago
- How to manage exam season: don’t forget to take regular breaks and breatheSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paul Ginns, Associate Professor in Educational Psychology, University of Sydney Oleksandr P/Pexels Around Australia, Year 12 students are heading into the final stretch of study before exams start in early term 4. This is typically seen as a very intense ...7 hours ago
- ‘An insatiable and unrestrained desire for passionate love’: the holy slut-shaming of Mary of Eg...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Olympia Nelson, PhD Candidate in Modern Greek & Byzantine Studies specialising in Byzantine art and literature, University of Sydney Mary of Egypt, The Pantanassa Monastery, Mystras, Peloponnese, Greece Olympia Nelson, CC BY-ND Mary of Egypt, a fourth-century saint with a large ...7 hours ago
- How Māngere plans to become the cycling capital of the PacificA beloved community group is shifting transport habits in this Manukau suburb. As I biked down Coronation Road in Māngere, a driver beeped and yelled, “Get off the road and onto the footpath!” When I didn’t get out of their way, they yelled again, telling me it was for my ...7 hours ago
- It’s poll dayNewshub’s next poll will be revealed at 6pm tonight, teased by political editor Jenna Lynch as one that shows the face of the election is “changing in more ways than one”. Is that a reference to New Zealand First, especially given National’s decision to commit to working with them (if ...7 hours ago
- The Bulletin: Where’s the urgency on drinking water?Andrea Vance has been on a tear of late, publishing a series of fired up columns about the dire state of political discourse as we head towards the election. This week’s Sunday Star-Times column (paywalled) is on the “stonking great elephant in the room” that none of the party leaders want to ...8 hours ago
- Gloves come off as Robertson and Willis show their leaders how it’s doneThe finance chiefs’ Q&A debate was some of the most compelling TV of the election season so far, writes Catherine McGregor in this excerpt from The Bulletin, The Spinoff’s morning news round-up. To receive The Bulletin in full each weekday, sign up here. Tempers flare in the TVNZ studios Grant ...8 hours ago
- Act And National A Coalition For Change“ACT and National are on the same page about a future coalition Government, with both parties working together in a strong coalition to overcome the significant challenges New Zealand faces,” says ACT Leader David Seymour. “Christopher Luxon confirmed ...8 hours ago
- Political Leaders Must Back Corporate Manslaughter Law – Pike FamiliesPike River family members Anna Osborne and Sonya Rockhouse have called on political leaders to agree to introduce a corporate manslaughter law following charges for Whakaari deaths being dropped. Anna Osborne, who lost her husband Milton in the Pike ...8 hours ago
- Providing Real Choice In Education“We need to get the politics and bureaucracy out of New Zealand’s education system, bring high standards for attendance and learning in, and treat the profession with respect. While Labour is responsible for lowering the bar and leaving kids even ...8 hours ago
- National would work with NZ First, confirms LuxonAfter months of speculation and countless questions from journalists, Christopher Luxon has confirmed he would work with Winston Peters – if required to. In a video posted to social media, Luxon made it clear that his preference was for “strong and stable” two-party coalition between National and Act. “I believe ...8 hours ago
- Think Before You Speak – Ethnic and Faith Community Leaders urge politicians“Think before you speak” urges Ethnic and Faith Leaders to election candidates. The national network of ethnic and faith leaders of the Chinese, Indian, Sikh, Muslim, Jewish and African communities has urged civility and respect by politicians during ...9 hours ago
- Election 2023 updates: Latest developments on 25 SeptemberParty leader Christopher Luxon has for months refused to explicitly state whether or not he could work with New Zealand First's Winston Peters. ...9 hours ago
- Election 2023 updates: Latest developments on 25 SeptemberParty leader Christopher Luxon has for months refused to explicitly state whether or not he could work with New Zealand First's Winston Peters. ...9 hours ago
- Duelling fiscal plans: Labour-National economic rivalry comes to a headNational and Labour are both promising to front up with their full fiscal plans this week, their rhetoric over the economy growing increasingly feisty. ...10 hours ago
- Duelling fiscal plans: Labour-National economic rivalry comes to a headNational and Labour are both promising to front up with their full fiscal plans this week, their rhetoric over the economy growing increasingly feisty. ...10 hours ago
- Did National really just simply sell off state houses?New Zealand has a massive deficit in state housing, but is that all National’s fault? Max Rashbrooke runs the numbers. It has become a truth universally acknowledged, at least on the left, that the last time National was in power, its only interest in state houses lay in selling them ...11 hours ago
- Who dares challenge Chlöe? The race for Auckland CentralChlöe Swarbrick’s victory was one of the biggest surprises of the 2020 election, but in the past three years she’s made the seat her own. Can the high-profile Green hold on to Auckland Central, or will it flip to a National or Labour newbie? Read the other battleground electorate profiles ...11 hours ago
- Economy bounces back after flooding, but primary industries fall
Business & investing: Economists warn better-than-expected GDP data likely to be temporary ...11 hours ago - Daily crossword, Monday 25 September
...11 hours ago - Political and business leaders still living in Fantasyland
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Cracked pots. It astonishes me how some folk dismiss pharmaceuticals made for humans but willingly hoover-up animal remedies.
#metoo
Are you suggesting that if a drug is used as an 'animal therapy' this means it automatically cannot be used in humans?
Nope. Just commenting on the willingness of some people to assign mal-intent to one branch of pharmacology, but not another, seemingly without blinking.
3.7 billion doses of Ivermectin given to people over the past 3 decades … the fact that dare not speak its name.
The moment people start suggesting Ivermectin is nothing more than a Horse de-wormer … you know you're in the realms of banal tit-for-tat political tribalism.
Well, there is the horse de-wormer paste & the human version for arthritis is it? The criticism is for the bozos feeding themselves & their fucking kids horse paste & Fuck off with your tribalism bullshit, "woke" this, "woke" that, ffs.
The criticism is for the bozos feeding themselves & their fucking kids horse paste
Can you cite anyone serious who has advocated for this? Or are you just propping up a tired 'smear by association'?
.
Whoa there ! … not feeling a whole lot of love from you, my dogmatic little Woke chum.
In fact, as Neil's best & only friend on The Young Ones once said:
But do we know what's in it???
Only 3 decades? – It hasn't been tested long-term!!!
Was it being prescribed by conventional doctors, those puppets of Big Pharma???
So many questions!
Must. Do. Own. Research!!
Mustn't be sheeple!!
Considering that Merck*, has stated categorically:
— I'd be inclined not to use the stuff to treat myself unless advised by a trained vet.
* Merck owns Ivermectin. So they'd kinda know what their own product is good for. 'Big Pharma', huh? Always telling us NOT to buy their products when its not appropriate… rolls eyes
So your telling us that Merck developed and sold a drug for decades that had a ‘concerning lack of safety data’?
It is a statement from Merck, so no one is telling us anything except Merck
Merck sold a drug for decades that "is indicated for the treatment of intestinal … nematode parasite[s]…"
It is apparent from the statement that the "concerning lack of safety data" applies to the use of ivermectin as a treatment and in a population that it has not been approved for in the US
Or are you telling us that people infected with nematodes and those infected with coronavirus are equivalent patient populations?
Given how pharmacology usually works the onus is on Merck to produce evidence that they are not.
Only if they seek approval for it's use in covid patients.
If doctors start prescribing it off-label, it isn't Merck's responsibility.
Of course, Merck's statement is arse-covering, but to not supply safety data in studies when re-purposing a drug is pretty slack.
.
Merck's patent on Ivermectin expired in 1996 … so now a widely available & exceedingly inexpensive generic drug produced by other companies … zero profits for Merck.
5% of the world gets a single dose of ivermectin each year? or do 100 million people take 3.7 doses each on average ?
Each gutworm infestation averages around 50-60 worms, so thats treating 222 billion itchy bum causes.
Fascinating
Ivermectin is used against scabies as a last resort in NZ.
It is a cheap ( not sheep )remedy also for tropical diseases .
But it's efficacy in treating Covid 19 has not been proven by any respected scientific study only in a very small poorly constructed study. Lancet.
https://youtu.be/zy7c_FHiEac?t=1305
Stromectol (Ivermectin) is not for horses etc! It is a very safe and commonly used medicine for humans. For Christs sake, stop this rubbish!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKa3EZqofNo
Yes it's youtube, but worth a watch! British Dr John Cambell gives a very good UNBIASED comparison between Ivermectin and Molnupiravir using ‘current publicly available’ scientific papers.
The dude is well outside the scope of his training. He is not a medical doctor, his phd is in developing open learning resources for nurses.
But he sure gets good clicks talking about medications as "Dr John Campbell".
It's simply an UNBIASED comparison between Ivermectin and Molnupiravir using ‘current publicly available’ scientific papers.
Yes a man with a phd in “developing open learning resources” for nurses… Yes (has a doctorate in the subject). Quite useful in an out of control biased media maybe, a doctorate of learning resources for the medical profession? You would think so, if you so choose.
If you wish to take your medical advice from journalists, be my guest!
'Hi I'm journalist Joe Bloggs, I'll be undertaking your medical advice and treatment today.
AGAIN (with correction), It’s simply an UNBIASED comparison between Ivermectin and Molnupiravir using ‘current publicly available’ scientific papers…. By a man with a phd in developing open learning resources for nurses. Pretty good individual to be filtering through all the noise in the media, maybe yes?
He's also a former A&E nurse… Has some very sound medical qualifications @McFlock.
You're welcome to continue getting your medical advice from media if that's what works for you?
Unbiased? Nah. Biased towards youtube's monetisation model.
I mean, I tend to follow the guidance of the government and the medical specialists I encounter frequently. But the media is more consistant with them than your youtube dude.
Give drinking upstream from the herd a go, you might find it has benefits. I hope that's a good conceptual metaphor for you.
If you think the government is being non-bias… again try the above.
If you think the media is being non-bias… again try the above.
As for the 'big sticks' being used on many in the medical profession, IT'S POLITICIZED…. Do and think as we say you must or your career is finished. Don't you dare think for yourself or drink upstream from the herd.
I never said the media is unbiased. You're the one arguing your source is completely without bias.
I'm arguing that a non-medical doctor does not have the demonstrated speciality expertise to be touting novel uses for medications.
My other argument is that 1.3million subscribers is a significant motivation to pander to the nutbar brigade. Gotta love the youtube ad revenue. Dunno if he's shilling anything else, don't really care.
Again with the dismissive labels #nutbarbrigade.
Such a weird time and rhetoric being cultivated so arrogantly, when any individual and/or collective thought is dismissed if it doesn't fit the common narrative of the state (predominantly)… Surely a touch of maturity and communication regarding the full spectrum should be welcomed in such uncertain times? Maybe too hopeful and positive?
We should and need to have mature open discussions about what is happening, where we're going as a consequence, what the principles and practices are of any major ethical decisions that will effect society (both present and future). Sadly, we're not allowed to aspire to different conclusions from the herd anymore, it's labelled as dangerous seemingly.
I personally would love an open televised/live streamed debate on the pandemic measures in NZ. The politicians can observe only, like the rest of us, strictly medical/scientific representatives from the full spectrum so 'we' and our government could democratically try to process the options in real time, and democratically formulate a better nuanced way forward. The world needs more dreamers right!?
"…in real time, and democratically formulate a better nuanced way forward."
What is democracy? I'd suggest majority rule…problematic if the split is around 50/50…not so much if its approaching 90/10
Really, you don't think it would be a good thing to have an open scientific/medical discussion (non-politicised) from both extremes and in between live streamed to the nation? Wouldn't be a democratic ballist to forge a way through this…? The 90/10 split, 'take the states medicine and carry on with your daily lives, everything will be back to "normal" soon enough if you do.' Thanks nurse Hatchet (joke).
Sorry, but I don't believe that for a moment!
Singapore, UAE, Denmark, Seychelles, Portugal, Gibraltar, Israel, Ireland etc etc etc.
Again, drink upstream from the herd, it has many benefits 👍😁
No, the world does not need more dreamers.
The world needs to fucking listen to people who have spents their lives researching highly technical fields, rather than believing everyone's opinion is justy as valid.
But most of all, the world needs people to recognise that just because someone feeds your own sense of self-importance and empowerment, it doesn't mean they are unbiased, correct, and/or not in it for the money.
Angry and dismissive. Don't be afraid of opening your mind to possibilities my friend. Its not that scary really.
You bet I'm angry and dismissive.
Covid misinformation has killed thousands if not millions. You're drinking upstream from the herd, but you're the one shitting in the creek.
Covid doesn't care about your opinions. And a youtube shill doesn't care about your health.
You're the one claiming your source is unbiased. Apparently he might have tens of thousands of reasons a month to tell you complete bullshit just so you can think you're smarter than all the other cows. But no, it's the hundreds of thousands of actual trained health researchers who are wrong. Not some guy you watch on youtube.
Still angry and dismissive!
Im not #antivax (fashionable hashtag), I'm vaccinated! I'm pro-vax, for those that NEED it. Not everybody does… "oh won't somebody think of the children" 🤔
I am very concerned, and rightly so, about the constant rhetoric, dismissal, anger etc etc from people such as you're displaying… The new sickness.
Also, I am concerned about mRNA technologies, their history to date (cancer and AIDS), development problems (a couple major issues, I'm sure the media and state has informed you of these) etc, and their constant promotion as a silver bullet for all. There ARE valid concerns!
I am simply hoping (dreaming) of a mature society that can discuss both present and future impacts of a very generalised medical new holy grail.
Don't forget, wash your hands, social distancing, and wear your mask in populated environments. Pretty simple practices… That even the DBL vaxxed WILL have to follow… As they should.
You're also touting for youtube shills.
If you are going to invoke 'democracy' then it may pay to understand what it is (for all its perceived flaws)
You're a breath of fresh air Julian
Or do you not really care?
I care that misinformation kills people.
Yes, it can.
Drinking upstream from the herd has its benefits.
Hate to break it to you, but telling a fool that actually they're really smart is a favourite tactic of con artists.
You're not upstream of the herd. You've been cut out of the herd so someone can make money off you or your attention.
So angry. What are you afraid of possibly discovering?
Let's be mature… Or at least try.
If I want to "discover" something about covid, I'll get it from trained professionals in their area of expertise, not youtube.
Edit: I like the way you bounce around references to being “upstream of the herd to drink”, then plead for maturity. Like a teenager who saw the matrix for the first time and thinks it’s profound.
OK @McFlock, burn people at the stake.
You abd your experts must be solely and holy right a pit everything and everyone. There's no need to expand our minds in this era of a 'new' noval coronavirus. No lies anywhere outside your feed of information from experts (who've been wrong on a number of things… 95% effective being a MAJOR one).
Don't bother to look at other areas of thought. In your mind, those corners are dangerous (possibilities/dreams). So negative and boring… So sad in a time of so many exciting possibilities! Go back to your version of normal that's served the dullness so we'll.
[RL: McFlock has a lousy record of making threads personal like this. He’s been around long enough to know how to fly inside of moderation – but I’ve rarely seen anything from him that isn’t sneering, angry or dismissive to some degree. What he’s doing here is baiting you. Don’t take it.]
I never said the actual subject-area experts were perfect. But you've said your own preferred authority is unbiased.
We're not talking about dreams here. We're talking about covid misinformation that kills, and I have some friends who are particularly vulnerable to covid. I'd really like them to remain alive and relatively healthy.
Wash your hands, wear a mask and keep your social distance 👍 and if you're really concerned, get tested regularly, vaccinated or not. Not too hard for you I'm sure.
My bad @McFlock…. I forgot you only listen to scientific/medical experts in their field.
Get those burning stakes ready my friend 😁
#stayangry and afraid of everything if it serves your present state of perpetual fear and anger. No need to discuss further, we're finally there.
If you want to read "that dude is an internet shill commenting on a topic well outside his area of expertise, and misinformation on this topic has killed people" as "burn him at the stake", that seems to be quite the logical leap.
Goodnight mate. You've revealed where you're coming from (fear and hate)…. Who baited who again? Enougb said.
Oh yeah.
https://www.noxinfluencer.com/youtube/channel/UCF9IOB2TExg3QIBupFtBDxg
https://socialblade.com/youtube/channel/UCF9IOB2TExg3QIBupFtBDxg
jaysus. Not many journos or even doctors are on that level of income, gotta give the shill some credit there.
https://investors.pfizer.com/financials/quarterly-reports/default.aspx
Amazing times right. There's value in lots of things. Mind blown.
Dudes a Campbell, too.
http://www.rampantscotland.com/features/glencoe.htm
These days, it's become common practise for researchers who submit papers for publishing to declare any conflicts of interest.
Where does "Dr John Campbell" list his.
So having an income is a crime now?
Stromectol (ivermectin) is the human prescribed form.
Matt King is basically a pest and got selected because of the Nats love for ex coppers in country seats regardless of talent. He regularly used his party FB page for Climate Change denial and pushing the usual rural reactionary buttons–against Māori people in particular.
Willow Jean Prime got elected partly on the “COVID provincial swing”, but she has been very busy in the electorate since entering Parliament as a list MP and making progress. There is no sensible reason apart from a bad habit, for Northland being a tory seat–John Carter always represented Wellington in the North not vice versa. Matt King has not accepted defeat and has been following Ms Prime around the region to openings and public events like the proverbial lost pup. Sad.
During the first COVID outbreak the Tai Tokerau Border Control began its checkpoint and community outreach. The usual suspects went ballistic. So Hone Harawira invited Matt to spend a day on a checkpoint, with NZ Police present, to see how it was operated for himself. Mr King never showed after weeks of slagging off local iwi.
Mike Finlayson, then Northland Regional Council member invited him several times to publicly debate Climate issues, Mr King did not respond.
Thanks for that. Useful info about a guy who always seems like something of a dodgy character, from goss & scuttlebutt I’ve picked up over the years. But goss isn’t as reliable-sounding as that thumbsketch report.
It is just a sketch Gezza, but my claims are verifiable, Willow Jean’s online presence shows Mr King virtually photobombing some of her post election appearances, and media covered Hone’s invitation, don’t know about the Nat party Facebook archiving.
Just for context … here are a few passages outlining King's stance in a Stuff article at the time (April 2020):
Whatever the rights & wrongs … this doesn't look like King "going ballistic" or "slagging off local iwi".
Defend a tory twat if you must for some reason that escapes me Swordfish–I did not mention King going ballistic, but many others from Mayor John Carter–initially–he is now more friendly to TBC, and other local Govt. people, Farmers and Nat leaning people in the community were scathing of roadblocks in the Northern Advocate, Northland Age papers and FB pages, and talkback.
Many pākehā in the North have changed their tune since and acknowledged Hone was right all along about maintaining a firm border. Even ex Whangārei electorate MP Shane Reti acknowledged the several thousands of cars that snuck through before 11.59pm on the night of the first Delta lockdown.
King is a gutless bastard who could at least have spent a few hours on a TBC checkpoint and seen what else they do regarding linking people up with resources, and just got to know some of the representatives. He could have, but chose not to.
“Collins’s response is interesting. She still thinks there is viable political support in a nation where in the near future over 90% of the population will be vaccinated.”
…………………………
Collins, in the words of my very jocular late, dear ol’ da: “Wouldn’t know her arse from her elbow” when it comes to pretty much anything political (or even topical) these days, it seems to me.
Collins is playing in the little kiddies pool of less than 10% of voters how is that going to gain more support when the adults in the room are 90% vaccinated.
I suspect Matt King is going after vaccine hesitant vote as Northland has a very low vaccine rate. A Pure political low life.I bet you he is double vaccinated.
That pool's often warmer than the adult pool.
More urine in it, too.
The Wee pool
He'll find a home with the ACT party.
So is trial evidence the only acceptable form of evidence on which to take action? Observational studies and in vitro tests alongside a very high safety record are now to be completely ignored are they?
Which observational studies and in vitro tests are you referring to?
I was referring to the various observational studies that have been carried out around the globe on Ivermectin and Covid. Generally talked about in terms of the meta analyses that have combined them because they tend to be small. Some dodgy studies that skewed the results but I believe the Tess Lawrie study removed the fraudulent studies and there was still a positive correlation. Plus of course there was the state to state comparison in India where one state issued kits containing an oximeter and meds including Ivermectin which preceded a dramatic decline in cases, whereas other states which didn't failed to see the same decline. I haven't seen that result credibly debunked as yet. Given that data, it suggests Ivermectin (the human form obviously) isn't a bad bet for early treatment of Covid should you catch it.
The Nats are certainly aiding and abetting the anti-vaxxers because they know the politics of hate and fear are their surest way back to power. They haven't cut their ties with Matt King, who still poses as MP-interrupted. They lend their support to the Far Right in other ways too but it cuts both ways: Peter Goodfellow and Cameron Slater, both on Far Right, provide money and muscle for Crusher to stay in office.
+100 which the media never pull national up on as they're playing a similar game.
Also IMO nationals DNA is not bi-partisan compliant, makes them feel ill and not in control so they don't really do it.
Matt King says:
There is an avalanche of information in the public arena – however, it lacks any critical thinking.
"It" is the single most discussed topic in the news, in the world. "It" has critical thinking pouring out of every orifice.
King has summed up the mindset of the Facebook fools: automatically delete anything and everything that doesn't fit. Sad for a member of the public, but much worse for an MP. Willow-Jan Prime and the voters of Northland deserve a nation's thanks.
Willow-Jean, of course (can't edit).
An avalanche of bs needs he a bull size dose of ivermectin.
Hone Harawira has been the best voice for Northland recently. Kelvin Davis should be worried about his seat in Te Tai Tokerau.
True roblogic Hone is a straight up guy hope the govt allows Nga Puhi to operate road blocks in conjunction with police.
King says "It is a well known fact" of something that is opinion not fact.
He says there's a lot of information for the public but it "lacks critical thinking."
Just there is a perfect example of what a clod he is.
King thinks he's still the Northland MP
The "rabbit holes" are now so deep and clogged with misinformation there may never be a way back. Nobody with an ounce of intelligence believes that "normal" will easily return any time soon – if at all.
We may continue to live in interesting times!
Hone Harawira is leading the way for the whole Northland community.
His integrity and mana make him a leading example in Aotearoa's fight against Covid 19.
The people of Tai Tokerau are lucky to have a respected kaitiaki in their midst.
I support that korero!
Personally, I wouldn't call it leading. Much of what he is doing is following Government policy, and Governments are generally renowned for being slow moving and cumbersome, making them one of the last to lead.
Another thing that I can't agree with, is his request for private health details of people so he can coerce them into medical treatment.