Having us squabble over the welfare pie
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- Date published:
10:40 am, December 18th, 2019 - 34 comments
Categories: benefits, child welfare, disability, poverty, welfare -
Tags: abelism, ageism, elderly, Shamubeel Equab, ubi
Yet another report was released this month, by the Children’s Commissioner, showing the dire state of children’s poverty in NZ. Along with various commentary across the MSM on the situation and what should be done, was the idea of a child ‘pension’.
Unfortunately, economist Shamubeel Eaqub was quoted in a Stuff business article with this,
But Eaqub said politicians had to convince the voting public, who were reluctant to make sacrifices.
“If I had my way you’d take it away from the decrepit old folk and give it to the young ones. Make super means-tested and a benefit for children unconditional. Older people don’t need it, they have money.”
Decrepit? Elderly people are all well off?
One hopes this was taken out of context, but even so it’s an extraordinary statement from an influential economist apparently advocating for the wellbeing of a vulnerable group of NZ citizens but taking such an ageist and ableist approach.
New Zealand’s child poverty rates are a disgrace – 26% of children live in low income households. Our elder poverty rate isn’t flash either, at 14%. There are 93,000 permanent or long term disabled people whose income is a benefit set below what is livable (more disabled live on an even lower rate). None of these groups should be having to vie with each other for the voting public’s beneficence.
Even allowing for Eaqub’s probable point that wealthy people shouldn’t be getting Super when children are going hungry, it’s highly irresponsible to drop such quotes into the MSM in a country that routinely practices beneficiary bashing, elder ageism, and often simply ignores the plight of disabled people living in poverty.
I’m also concerned at the casual mentioning of means testing Super (rather than say income testing), when we already have another high profile economist, Gareth Morgan, promoting an annual housing tax that would require low income home owners to either take out a mortgage to pay the tax each year, or sell up and move into a cheaper house, with all the social disruption to community that causes.
We should be mindful that Work and Income have an appalling culture of making non-Super beneficiaries hoop jump in unconscionable ways and denying them entitlements, I hate to think how elderly people would fare in such a system.
Which isn’t to say a discussion about universal Super is an inherently bad idea, but that pitting one group against another to do it is a really bad frame to have the conversation.
Squabbling over the welfare pie is part of ‘deserving poor’ narrative. A familiar narrative in right wing positions, it has been more deeply entrenched in the past decade by the left’s focus on child poverty. Hence we talk about families living in poverty but rarely hear about those not living in a family structure, and we have a Prime Minister who wants to end child poverty but can’t bring herself to talk about the poverty of the disabled. We should of course have policies designed to address the urgent needs of children and parents living in poverty. Likewise, disabled people need their own set of policies, and so do the elderly.
Worse is the mix here of deserving poor with ageism. When we hear supposedly progressive economists talking about elderly people as decrepit, or rendering the elderly poor invisible, it’s time to revisit our moral compass. Needless to say, all the Ok Boomer shit needs to stop, because whatever people think they are doing with that, ‘Boomer’ is fast being turned into a stick to beat old people with, and every time someone says it’s about attitude not age they’re doing the same disappearing of the elderly poor as Eaqub.
We now have a degree of support from progressives for policies that are a dangerous mix of this selective compassion and neoliberalism. Not surprisingly Eaqub wants The Opportunities Party in parliament. TOP’s history of policy development around welfare is dodgy (see Morgan’s pre-TOP attitudes towards welfare recipients).
In the 2017 election one of TOP’s showcased policies was a UBI for 18 – 23 year olds. Sounds good right? Until we understand that it’s not universal and the people that would be excluded included disabled youth on welfare. If you were earning income (eg a teacher’s salary) you would get an extra $200/wk, untaxed and unabated, but if you were on a benefit and unable to work you would get nothing.
Policy development with inbuilt collateral damage isn’t fair and the left should be highly critical where that is happening. If all this raises the issue of universality vs fair targeting, and how NZ might afford it, I don’t know if we are at a point of having to accept we can’t afford to be just, or if we are simply acquiescing to the resistance of NZ to give a shit and distribute wealth more fairly.
If we are to have a conversation about removing the universality of Superannuation, then we must first centre the realities and voices of the people already most badly affected. Not the people tossing around bigoted rhetoric or proposing discriminatory policy.
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News that the annual number of building consents granted for new homes fell by more than 20 percent for the year ended July 2024, is bad news for the construction industry. ...1 week ago
- Te PÄti MÄori Pay Tribute to Kiingi TĆ«heitia PĆtatau Te Wherowhero VII
PapÄ te whatitiri, hikohiko te uira, i kanapu ki te rangi, i whÄtuki i raro rÄ, rĆ« ana te whenua e. Uea te pou o tĆku whare kia tĆ« tangata he kapua whakairi nÄku nÄ runga o Taupiri. Ko taku kiri ka tĆkia ki te anu mÄtao. E te iwi ...1 week ago
- Release: Gaps still to be addressed in callouts response
The Government must guarantee New Zealanders will not be at risk after making changes to the way mental health callouts are handled. ...1 week ago
- Poroporoaki: Kiingi Tuheitia passing
Haere e te KÄ«ngi o te kotahitangi Haere ki o nui, ki o rahi I te pĆ ...1 week ago
- Green Party pays respects to Kiingi Tuuheitia
The Green Party is paying tribute to the MÄori King, Kiingi Tuuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero XVII, after he passed away earlier this morning. ...1 week ago
- Potaka Brings Whakaata MÄori to its Knees
Todayâs Whakaata MÄori announcement is yet another colossal failure from Minister Potaka, who has turned his back on te reo MÄori, forcing a channel offline, putting whÄnau out of jobs, and cutting MÄori content, says Te PÄti MÄori. âA Senior MÄori Minister has turned his back on Te Reo MÄori. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: National restricts access to disability care homes
With disability communities still reeling from the diminishing of Whaikaha, a leaked document now reveals another blow with National restricting access to residential care homes. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Govt must help save 230 manufacturing jobs
Labour is calling on the Government and Mercury Energy to find a solution to the proposed Winstone Pulp mill closure and save 230 manufacturing jobs. ...2 weeks ago
- Govt shirks its responsibility to Whakaata MÄori
The Green Party has called out the Government for allowing Whakaata MÄori to effectively collapse to a shell of its former self as job cuts and programming cuts were announced at the broadcaster today. ...2 weeks ago
- NZ First Memberâs Bill To Disestablish Auckland Transport
Today New Zealand First has introduced a Memberâs Bill that will restore democratic control over transport management in Auckland City by disestablishing Auckland Transport (AT) and returning control to Auckland Council. The âLocal Government (Auckland Council) (Disestablishment of Auckland Transport) Amendment Billâ intends to restore democratic oversight, control, and accountability ...2 weeks ago - Release: PM fails in constitutional role and leadership
The failure of the Prime Minister to condemn his Minister for personally attacking the judiciary is another example of this Government riding roughshod over important constitutional rules. ...2 weeks ago
- Waititi urges Rotorua Lakes Council to immediately stop works at Lake RotokÄkahi
Te PÄti MÄori co-leader and Member of Parliament for Waiariki, which includes Rotorua, has written to Rotorua Lakes Councillors requesting they immediately stop sewerage piping works at Lake RotokÄkahi in Rotorua. âMana whenua have been urging Rotorua Lakes Council to stop works and look at alternative plans to protect the ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Patient care at risk from redundancies
Patient care could suffer as a result of further cuts to the health system, which could lose thousands of staff who keep our hospitals and clinics running. ...2 weeks ago
- Greens call on Govt to wake up on child poverty
The Green Party says the latest statistics on child poverty in this country highlight the callous approach that the Government is taking on this issue of national shame. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Police are off the beat under National
Foot patrols around the country have decreased 15 percent since National took office, despite Nationalâs Mark Mitchell claiming otherwise. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Climate denial is an insult to Pacific leaders
Winston Petersâ climate denialism at the Pacific Islandsâ Forum is an embarrassing new low. ...2 weeks ago
- Govt must end solitary confinement
The Green Party is urging the Government to end the use of solitary confinement within our prisons after new research revealed some prisoners have been held in confinement for more than 900 days. ...2 weeks ago
- Fossil fuels never the answer in climate crisis
The Governmentâs moves to enable the import of Liquefied Natural Gas is another step away from the sustainable and affordable energy network that this country needs. ...2 weeks ago
- Government must respect Courtâs Uber employee decision
Todayâs court ruling upholding the rights of Uber drivers is a message to the Government that it must not tamper with employment protections. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Uber court decision recognises workers’ rights
The Court of Appeal decision that Uber drivers are entitled to employee rights such as minimum wage, sick leave, holiday pay and collective bargaining is welcome news for the drivers involved and their unions. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Labour calls on Govt to divest from illegal settlements
The Labour Party is calling on the Government to tell the two major wealth funds, the NZ Super Fund and ACC, to withdraw investments from companies listed by the United Nations as complicit in Israelâs illegal settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Govt backtrack on fast-track still not enough
Labour welcomes news that the National Government is backing down on its reckless proposal to give Ministers final sign-off on significant projects, but itâs still not enough. ...2 weeks ago
- Fast track still on track to environmental destruction
Our environment remains at risk despite the Government's proposed changes to its controversial fast-track legislation. ...2 weeks ago
- Ohinemuri River pollution highlights mining risks
The harrowing images of the severely polluted Ohinemuri River caused by an old mining shaft could become a more common occurrence under the mining regime the Government is looking to roll out. ...2 weeks ago
- Action to grow the rural health workforce
Scholarships awarded to 27 health care students is another positive step forward to boost the future rural health workforce, Associate Health Minister Matt Doocey says. âAll New Zealanders deserve timely access to quality health care and this Government is committed to improving health outcomes, particularly for the one in five ...5 hours ago - Pharmac delivering more for Kiwis following major funding boost
Associate Health Minister with responsibility for Pharmac David Seymour has welcomed the increased availability of medicines for Kiwis resulting from the Governmentâs increased investment in Pharmac. âPharmac operates independently, but it must work within the budget constraints set by the Government,â says Mr Seymour. âWhen our Government assumed office, New ...6 hours ago
- Sport Minister congratulates NZâs Paralympians
Sport & Recreation Minister Chris Bishop has congratulated New Zealand's Paralympic Team at the conclusion of the Paralympic Games in Paris. âThe NZ Paralympic Team's success in Paris included fantastic performances, personal best times, New Zealand records and Oceania records all being smashed - and of course, many Kiwis on ...7 hours ago
- Government progresses response to Abuse in Care recommendations
A Crown Response Office is being established within the Public Service Commission to drive the Governmentâs response to the Royal Commission into Abuse in Care. âThe creation of an Office within a central Government agency was a key recommendation by the Royal Commissionâs final report. âIt will have the mandate ...3 days ago
- Passport wait times back on-track
Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden says passport processing has returned to normal, and the Department of Internal Affairs [Department] is now advising customers to allow up to two weeks to receive their passport. âI am pleased that passport processing is back at target service levels and the Department ...3 days ago
- New appointments to the FMA board
Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister has today announced three new appointments and one reappointment to the Financial Markets Authority (FMA) board. Tracey Berry, Nicholas Hegan and Mariette van Ryn have been appointed for a five-year term ending in August 2029, while Chris Swasbrook, who has served as a board member ...3 days ago
- District Court judges appointed
Attorney-General Hon Judith Collins today announced the appointment of two new District Court judges. The appointees, who will take up their roles at the Manukau Court and the Auckland Court in the Accident Compensation Appeal Jurisdiction, are: Jacqui Clark Judge Clark was admitted to the bar in 1988 after graduating ...3 days ago
- Government makes it faster and easier to invest in New Zealand
Associate Minister of Finance David Seymour is encouraged by significant improvements to overseas investment decision timeframes, and the enhanced interest from investors as the Government continues to reform overseas investment. âThere were about as many foreign direct investment applications in July and August as there was across the six months ...3 days ago
- New Zealand to join Operation Olympic Defender
New Zealand has accepted an invitation to join US-led multi-national space initiative Operation Olympic Defender, Defence Minister Judith Collins announced today. Operation Olympic Defender is designed to coordinate the space capabilities of member nations, enhance the resilience of space-based systems, deter hostile actions in space and reduce the spread of ...4 days ago
- Government commits to âstamping outâ foot and mouth disease
Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard says that a new economic impact analysis report reinforces this governmentâs commitment to âstamp outâ any New Zealand foot and mouth disease incursion. âThe new analysis, produced by the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research, shows an incursion of the disease in New Zealand would have ...4 days ago
- Improving access to finance for Kiwis
5 September 2024 The Government is progressing further reforms to financial services to make it easier for Kiwis to access finance when they need it, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly says. âFinancial services are foundational for economic success and are woven throughout our lives. Without access to finance our ...4 days ago
- Prime Minister pays tribute to Kiingi Tuheitia
As Kiingi Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII is laid to rest today, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has paid tribute to a leader whose commitment to Kotahitanga will have a lasting impact on our country. âKiingi Tuheitia was a humble leader who served his people with wisdom, mana and an unwavering ...4 days ago
- Resource Management reform to make forestry rules clearer
Forestry Minister Todd McClay today announced proposals to reform the resource management system that will provide greater certainty for the forestry sector and help them meet environmental obligations. âThe Government has committed to restoring confidence and certainty across the sector by removing unworkable regulatory burden created by the previous ...4 days ago
- More choice and competition in building products
A major shake-up of building products which will make it easier and more affordable to build is on the way, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says. âToday we have introduced legislation that will improve access to a wider variety of quality building products from overseas, giving Kiwis more choice and ...4 days ago
- Joint Statement between the Republic of Korea and New Zealand 4 September 2024, Seoul
On the occasion of the official visit by the Right Honourable Prime Minister Christopher Luxon of New Zealand to the Republic of Korea from 4 to 5 September 2024, a summit meeting was held between His Excellency President Yoon Suk Yeol of the Republic of Korea (hereinafter referred to as ...5 days ago
- Comprehensive Strategic Partnership the goal for New Zealand and Korea
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon held a bilateral meeting today with the President of the Republic of Korea, Yoon Suk Yeol. âKorea and New Zealand are likeminded democracies and natural partners in the Indo Pacific. As such, we have decided to advance discussions on elevating the bilateral relationship to a Comprehensive ...5 days ago
- International tourism continuing to bounce back
Results released today from the International Visitor Survey (IVS) confirm international tourism is continuing to bounce back, Tourism and Hospitality Minister Matt Doocey says. The IVS results show that in the June quarter, international tourism contributed $2.6 billion to New Zealandâs economy, an increase of 17 per cent on last ...5 days ago
- Government confirms RMA reforms to drive primary sector efficiency
The Government is moving to review and update national level policy directives that impact the primary sector, as part of its work to get Wellington out of farming. âThe primary sector has been weighed down by unworkable and costly regulation for too long,â Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says. âThat is ...5 days ago
- Weak grocery competition underscores importance of cutting red tape
The first annual grocery report underscores the need for reforms to cut red tape and promote competition, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly says. âThe report paints a concerning picture of the $25 billion grocery sector and reinforces the need for stronger regulatory action, coupled with an ambitious, economy-wide ...5 days ago
- Government moves to lessen burden of reliever costs on ECE services
Associate Education Minister David Seymour says the Government has listened to the early childhood education sectorâs calls to simplify paying ECE relief teachers. Today two simple changes that will reduce red tape for ECEs are being announced, in the run-up to larger changes that will come in time from the ...5 days ago
- Over 2,320 people engage with first sector regulatory review
Regulation Minister David Seymour says there has been a strong response to the Ministry for Regulationâs public consultation on the early childhood education regulatory review, affirming the need for action in reducing regulatory burden. âOver 2,320 submissions have been received from parents, teachers, centre owners, child advocacy groups, unions, research ...5 days ago
- Government backs women in horticulture
âThe Government is empowering women in the horticulture industry by funding an initiative that will support networking and career progression,â Associate Minister of Agriculture, Nicola Grigg says. âWomen currently make up around half of the horticulture workforce, but only 20 per cent of leadership roles which is why initiatives like this ...6 days ago
- Government to pause freshwater farm plan rollout
The Government will pause the rollout of freshwater farm plans until system improvements are finalised, Agriculture Minister Todd McClay, Environment Minister Penny Simmonds and Associate Environment Minister Andrew Hoggard announced today. âImproving the freshwater farm plan system to make it more cost-effective and practical for farmers is a priority for this ...6 days ago
- Milestone reached for fixing the Holidays Act 2003
Minister for Workplace Relations and Safety Brooke van Velden says yesterday Cabinet reached another milestone on fixing the Holidays Act with approval of the consultation exposure draft of the Bill ready for release next week to participants. âThis Government will improve the Holidays Act with the help of businesses, workers, and ...6 days ago
- New priorities to protect future of conservation
ToitĆ« te marae a TÄne Mahuta me Hineahuone, toitĆ« te marae a Tangaroa me Hinemoana, toitĆ« te taiao, toitĆ« te tangata. The Government has introduced clear priorities to modernise Te Papa Atawhai - The Department of Conservationâs protection of our natural taonga. âTe Papa Atawhai manages nearly a third of our ...6 days ago
- Faster 110km/h speed limit to accelerate KÄpiti
A new 110km/h speed limit for the KÄpiti Expressway Road of National Significance (RoNS) has been approved to reduce travel times for Kiwis travelling in and out of Wellington, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. âBoosting economic growth and productivity is a key part of the Governmentâs plan to rebuild the economy. ...6 days ago
- IVL increase to ensure visitors contribute more to New Zealand
The International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) will be raised to $100 to ensure visitors contribute to public services and high-quality experiences while visiting New Zealand, Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Matt Doocey and Minister of Conservation Tama Potaka say. âThe Government is serious about enabling the tourism sector ...6 days ago
- Delivering priority connections for the West Coast
A record $255 million for transport investment on the West Coast through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will strengthen the regionâs road and rail links to keep people connected and support the regionâs economy, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. âThe Government is committed to making sure that every ...1 week ago
- Road and rail reliability a focus for Wellington
A record $3.3 billion of transport investment in Greater Wellington through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will increase productivity and reduce travel times, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. âDelivering infrastructure to increase productivity and economic growth is a priority for our Government. We're focused on delivering transport projects ...1 week ago
- Record investment to boost economic and housing growth in the Waikato
A record $1.9 billion for transport investment in the Waikato through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will create a more efficient, safe, and resilient roading network that supports economic growth and productivity, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. âWith almost a third of the countryâs freight travelling into, out ...1 week ago
- Building reliable and efficient roading for Taranaki
A record $808 million for transport investment in Taranaki through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will support economic growth and productivity, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. âTaranakiâs roads carry a high volume of freight from primary industries and itâs critical we maintain efficient connections across the region to ...1 week ago
- Supporting growth and resilience in Otago and Southland
A record $1.4 billion for transport investment in Otago and Southland through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will create a more resilient and efficient network that supports economic growth and productivity, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. âTransport is a critical enabler for economic growth and productivity in Otago ...1 week ago
- Delivering connected and resilient roading for Northland
A record $991 million for transport investment in Northland through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will strengthen the regionâs connections and support economic growth and productivity, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. âWe are committed to making sure that every transport dollar is spent wisely on the projects and ...1 week ago
- Top of the South to benefit from reliable transport infrastructure
A record $479 million for transport investment across the top of the South Island through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will build a stronger road network that supports primary industries and grows the economy, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. âWeâre committed to making sure that every dollar is ...1 week ago
- Government delivering reliable roads for Manawatƫ-Whanganui
A record $1.6 billion for transport investment in ManawatĆ«-Whanganui through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will strengthen the regionâs importance as a strategic freight hub that boosts economic growth, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. âDelivering infrastructure to increase productivity and economic growth is a priority for our Government. ...1 week ago
- Restoring connections in Hawkeâs Bay
A record $657 million for transport investment in the Hawkeâs Bay through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will support recovery from cyclone damage and build greater resilience into the network to support economic growth and productivity, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. âWe are committed to making sure that ...1 week ago
- Transport resilience a priority for Gisborne
A record $255 million for transport investment in Gisborne through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will support economic growth and restore the cyclone-damaged network, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. âWith $255 million of investment over the next three years, we are committed to making sure that every transport ...1 week ago
- Prioritising growth and reduced travel times in Canterbury
A record $1.8 billion for transport investment Canterbury through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will boost economic growth and productivity and reduce travel times, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. âChristchurch is the economic powerhouse of the South Island, and transport is a critical enabler for economic growth and ...1 week ago
- Supporting growth and freight in the Bay of Plenty
A record $1.9 billion for transport investment in the Bay of Plenty through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will boost economic growth and unlock land for thousands of houses, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. âTransport is a critical enabler for economic growth and productivity in the Bay of ...1 week ago
- Getting transport back on track in Auckland
A record $8.4 billion for transport investment in Auckland through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will deliver the infrastructure our rapidly growing region needs to support economic growth and reduce travel times, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. âAucklanders rejected the previous governmentâs transport policies which resulted in non-delivery, phantoms projects, ...1 week ago
- MSG is back. Is the idea itâs bad for us just a myth or food science?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Evangeline Mantzioris, Program Director of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Accredited Practising Dietitian, University of South Australia Dr. Victor Wong/Shutterstock MSG is making a comeback. The internetâs favourite cucumber salad recipe includes fish sauce, cucumber, garlic and â as the videoâs creator ...46 mins ago - South Australia is proposing a law to ban kids under 14 from social media. How would it work?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lisa M. Given, Professor of Information Sciences & Director, Social Change Enabling Impact Platform, RMIT University Artie Medvedev/Shutterstock The South Australian government is moving ahead with plans to ban children under 14 from social media. Under the proposal, teens aged 14 ...1 hour ago
- Australiaâs construction industry needs more hands on deck â so why is it ignoring skilled migra...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Martin Loosemore, Professor of Construction Management, University of Technology Sydney Shutterstock Australiaâs construction industry is facing a perfect storm: enormous targets for building â 1.2 million new homes and A$230 billion worth of infrastructure over the next five years â at ...2 hours ago
- At Melaka Art & Performance Festival I watched dancers overcome by a trance in the rain, and the...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jonathan W. Marshall, Associate Professor & Postgraduate Research Coordinator, Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, Edith Cowan University Feifei Liao performing in the village ruins. Photo by and courtesy of Teo Swee An. Melbourne-based Tony Yap is a leading figure in ...2 hours ago
- Google is facing another crucial court case in the US â and it could have major consequences for o...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Barbora Jedlickova, Senior Lecturer, School of Law, The University of Queensland One month after a US court ruled Google had illegally maintained its monopoly on internet search, the tech giant will this week face the start of yet another important antitrust case. ...2 hours ago
- Christopher Luxon refuses to speak about Treaty Principles Bill after it was handed to Cabinet
The Prime Minister says ACT leader David Seymour will have more to say on the Bill soon. ...3 hours ago - Jesusâs vision fulfilled: David Seymour restores unity to the church
The Christian church has had quite a few dust-ups with itself over the last 20 centuries. This week, the Act Party brought it together. Since Jesus prayed that his followers may all be one (John 17:20-21), Christians have barely stopped fighting. Yes, theyâve occasionally broken off to slaughter people in ...3 hours ago - PODCAST: The Politics of Desperation â Trump, Netanyahu, Maduro, Ortega
Podcast: A View from Afar with Paul G Buchanan and Selwyn Manning. Building upon recent episodes of A View from Afar, Political Scientist Paul G Buchanan and journalist Selwyn Manning discuss The Politics of Desperation. This episode flows on from our discussions about long transitions and the moment ...3 hours ago
- Pope Francisâ visit to Timor-Leste is powerful and symbolic, but also political
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Shannon Brincat, Senior Lecturer in Politics and International Relations, University of the Sunshine Coast Author provided, Author provided Timor-Leste has had much to celebrate recently. August 30 marked 25 years since the Popular Consultation â or âThe Referendumâ, as many call ...4 hours ago
- Whatâs the difference between a heart attack and cardiac arrest? Oneâs about plumbing, the other...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michael Todorovic, Associate Professor of Medicine, Bond University Explode/Shutterstock In July 2023, rising US basketball star Bronny James collapsed on the court during practice and was sent to hospital. The 18-year-old athlete, son of famous LA Lakersâ veteran LeBron James, had ...4 hours ago
- If we truly want our Paralympic athletes to shine, their coaches need more support
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andrew Bennie, Associate Professor, Health and Physical Education/Sport Development, Western Sydney University The 2024 Paris Paralympics delivered heightened attention and awareness of a pinnacle sporting event for para athletes. Australia has often set the standard for para sport, consistently achieving top ...5 hours ago
- New to streaming: What to watch on Netflix NZ, Neon and more this week
We round up everything coming to streaming services this week, including Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, Apple TV+, ThreeNow, Neon and TVNZ+. If you love celebs out of their comfort zone: Celebrity Treasure Island (TVNZ+, starting September 9) Weâre back on the beach for a new season of celebrity ...6 hours ago
- Harrisâ lead dips in national US polls and itâs very close in the key states
Source: 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 The United States presidential election will be held on November 5. In analyst Nate Silverâs aggregate of national polls, Democrat Kamala Harris ...7 hours ago
- Rewriting history: how the Treaty âprinciplesâ evolved and why they donât stand up to scrutiny
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jane Kelsey, Emeritus Professor of Law, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau Getty Images ACT Party leader David Seymour has said the goal of his Treaty Principles Bill is to stimulate an overdue conversation on te Tiriti o Waitangi/Treaty of Waitangi. ...7 hours ago
- Surge in non-disclosure agreements at Health NZ sparks Labour complaint
Nearly 70 staff at Te Whatu Ora have signed non-disclosure agreements since the end of November. ...7 hours ago
- âNumerous questionsâ, but Fiji govt sticks with new anti-corruption chief
By Caleb Fotheringham, RNZ Pacific journalist The Fiji government is backing the appointment of the countryâs new anti-corruption chief who was under investigation by the office she now heads, which has left Fijians asking questions. Barbara Malimali â who was also the Electoral Commission chairperson â was revealed as the ...7 hours ago
- Pope Francis calls for end to tribal âspiral of violenceâ in PNG visit
Inside PNG reports that Papua New Guinea is blessed with an abundance of natural resources, a proclamation even Pope Francis acknowledges. But Papua New Guinea is also challenged with socio-economic developments that do not reach the rural majority despite the presence of numerous extractive industries. The Pontiff in his remarks ...7 hours ago
- Anne Salmond: A Cabinet of principles?
The effrontery of David Seymourâs riposte to Church leaders over his Treaty Principles Bill is breathtaking. He accuses them of being undemocratic. When the Act Party took the idea of a referendum on Te Tiriti to a general election in 2023, it won just 8.6 percent of the vote. The other ...7 hours ago - Public feedback sought on new tolls for lower North Island
Consultation on the proposed tolling schemes for the ManawatĆ« Tararua Highway and the Ćtaki to north of Levin highway is now open. ...7 hours ago
- A new festival celebrates the art of the picture book
Picture Me is a brand new book festival happening in Wellington and Christchurch between 11â28 September. Hereâs the inside scoop on the international headliners and what theyâll be doing while in Aotearoa. A good picture book has a timeless quality: a story you donât mind reading over, and over and ...8 hours ago
- Minister tried to hide NZDF criticism of boot camp comments
The criticism was revealed to RNZ in an official information act response, but new documents show Judith Collins asked for them to be redacted. ...8 hours ago
- LIVE@12:45pm â The Politics of Desperation â Trump, Netanyahu, Maduro, Ortega
The LIVE Recording of A View from Afar podcast will begin today at 12:45pm September 9, 2024 (NZST) which is Sunday evening, 8:45pm (USEDT). Building upon recent episodes of A View from Afar, Political Scientist Paul G Buchanan and journalist Selwyn Manning will discuss The Politics of Desperation. ...9 hours ago
- David Seymour hits out at church leaders over Treaty Principles Bill
The ACT leader says churches are abandoning their core beliefs, after 400 Christian leaders condemned his controversial Treaty Principles Bill. ...9 hours ago
- Some home truths about gene technologies
In response to criticism of proposed changes to our GM settings, scientist Revel Drummond says we should discuss the issue of regulatory change from a position of educated debate, not fear-mongering. New technologies often get pushback from sectors of society. In the 19th century people feared the unknown effects on ...9 hours ago
- Dane and Stacey on making travel a business, owning half a dog, and finding balance
Earning money while you travel sounds like a dream to many of us â so how hard is it to make the dream a reality? Travel content creators Dane and Stacey joined Kiwibankâs This is Kiwi podcast to talk about documenting their adventures online, and remembering to sometimes put the ...9 hours ago
- Councils’ credit ratings downgraded over debt, rising costs
A reduced rating will mean higher borrowing costs for two major city councils. ...9 hours ago
- Is America ready to elect a Black woman president?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Emma Shortis, Adjunct Senior Fellow, School of Global, Urban and Social Studies, RMIT University Itâs the big question that has loomed over Kamala Harrisâ presidential campaign from the start: is the United States ready for a Black woman president? I get ...11 hours ago
- Murdoch to Musk: how global media power has shifted from the moguls to the big tech bros
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Matthew Ricketson, Professor of Communication, Deakin University Until recently, Elon Musk was just a wildly successful electric car tycoon and space pioneer. Sure, he was erratic and outspoken, but his global influence was contained and seemingly under control. But add the ...11 hours ago
- Africa desperately needs mpox vaccines. But donations from rich countries wonât fix this or the ne...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joel Lexchin, Professor Emeritus of Health Policy and Management, York University, Canada Africa says it needs an estimated ten million doses of mpox vaccine to control this public health emergency. The situation is particularly concerning in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, ...11 hours ago
- Plot twist: how giving old graveyards new life as parks can improve our cities
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rob Stokes, Industry Professor, Environment and Sustainability, Macquarie University Camperdown Cemetery in Newtown, Sydney Rose Marinelli/Shutterstock Old graveyards are a forgotten land asset that can find new life as urban parks in crowded cities. As the density of our cities increases, efficient ...11 hours ago
- 91% of Australian teens have a phone â but many are not keeping their identity and location secure
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Yeslam Al-Saggaf, Professor in Computing, Charles Sturt University Halfpoint/ Shutterstock , CC BY Most Australian teenagers have their own smartphone. According to a 2023 survey, 91% of young people between 14 and 17 owned a phone. At the same time, ...11 hours ago
- Pay-by-weight airfares are an ethical minefield. We asked travellers what they actually think
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Denis Tolkach, Senior Lecturer, James Cook University Jaromir Chalabala/Shutterstock Imagine checking in for a flight with your two teenage children. At the counter, you are told that your youngest teenagerâs suitcase is two kilograms over the limit. You get slapped with ...11 hours ago
- Popes were once confined to Rome. Now they travel the world â and Francisâ current journey is pa...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Darius von Guttner Sporzynski, Historian, Australian Catholic University Pope Francis is continuing the tradition of papal journeys, having embarked on the longest trip of his papacy yet to Asia and the Pacific. In recent decades, apostolic journeys have emerged as a powerful ...11 hours ago
- Inside the cold war between Live Nation and the Powerstation
Aucklandâs best live music venue is feuding with the worldâs biggest promoter. Only one side is willing to speak about what happened that fateful night in April. The artist is dressed in black, with a DJ and live drummer, and the crowd bobbing in unison to sinewy R&B. Footage from ...11 hours ago
- How well are NZ companies reporting their climate impacts? Our new tracker shows very mixed results
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sara Walton, Professor of Sustainable Business, University of Otago Interpreting corporate reports on carbon emissions can be challenging. The current, adhoc approach to how businesses share this information makes it difficult to see whether they have set the right targets, have realistic ...12 hours ago
- Air New Zealand braces for turbulence
In todayâs extract from The Bulletin, Stewart Sowman-Lund looks at the compounding pressures facing the national carrier. To receive The Bulletin in your inbox every weekday morning, sign up here. Diving profits A couple of months ago, we talked about the controversy over surging flight prices in New Zealand, with ...12 hours ago
- Labour, Greens praise church leaders for opposition to Treaty Principles Bill
Labour and the Greens are welcoming the move, but David Seymour says it's not for the church to decide. ...13 hours ago
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UBI, with tax as claw back on the higher incomes.
UBIs, as commonly discussed in NZ, help the precariat work force. They don't help people who cannot work or shouldn't be expected to work. UBI with welfare bolted on (an expression from Chloe Ann-King) *might work, but I'd need to see some serious work from the left about how it would be tory-proofed.
The UBI scheme promoted by Gareth Morgan is highly discriminatory.
Oh dear. Weka, mate, I have held off from sharing this here but as from a month or so ago MSD docked our Super as it transpires that a previous concession of a year's grace upon the sale of the family home before abatements are made with respect to interest supposedly being earned on funds prior to repurchase has gone. Those with a non qualifying partner (such as myself providing full time unpaid advanced level care) to the qualifying partner are means/ asset tested. The attendant fact that it will take us much longer, and very possibly cost more, than the able bodied to house ourselves cuts no ice. A phone call, made when I was very calm and resigned, to find out if there was any flexibility in the system for those in our circumstances led to the call taker hanging up because it was 'too much of an emotional issue' for them. Swear on my life I was completely calm and rational.
The end of the call left us demoralized and dispirited.
Yes we have $$$$ in the bank, but our only home is our Bus currently parked on the side of the road.
And every day we draw on our sacred house money to make up the shortfall due to the abatement for $$$ we're not actually earning in interest puts our home aspirations further away.
So. Shamubeel. There are mechanisms available for MSD to penalize Superannuitants living of the fat of the land….
Merry fucking Christmas.
Didn't quite follow that sorry (I think because rules for Super are different than for non-Super benefits?). Super is being abated because of the (interest) income test? Or the asset test?
For non-Super benes at least, afaik the year time period is still policy not law, and is discretionary. You can argue special circumstances due to disability that you need longer (am thinking in your situation this is because of finding disability appropriate housing, higher needs regards location, as well as the extra time in completing such a task because of your situation as a couple re disability and care).
Whether that is worth it is another matter if WINZ are being bastards about it. Usual advice of doing everything in writing from this point on, even just to keep review option open.
Don't blame you for not getting it…we don't.
We are supposed to invest our house sale money and the interest earned is income and abatements are made as is appropriate.
We have our house sale money on call so we can, should the opportunity arise, readily access it to secure an appropriately accessible property.
We are being treated as if we are earning interest on this amount even though we aren't.
Told it is 'our choice' that we are not earning interest.
Very difficult if not impossible to discuss it with MSD if call taker has hung up on you because they find your situation too fraught for them to cope with.
I'd find the irony side -splittingly hilarious if it wasn't so deeply depressing.
Seems we're constantly being forced into the margins.
I've always had some respect for Shamubeel…but he needs to pull his whatever from out of his aft crevasse …
ah yes, I have come across this too. Godforbid that beneficiaries made decisions based on their own wellbeing rather than the penny-pinching agenda of the state.
I may need to look at Eaqub's work more indepth. The whole generation rent stuff originally seemed to have the same disapppearing issue, in that it ignored all the people across all generations who had always had to rent. I have this developing theory around the liberal left in NZ and how it favours stars such as Eaqub without doing deeper analysis. My curiosity is how progressives rationalise this in their own minds and value system.
If the Current Incumbents had kept their pre-election promises and allowed payment of spouses who are providing the assessed care of an MOH very high needs disabled person then there would be no problem.
Peter could happily claim his full whack of Super and I'd be earning a wage. Whatever we were lucky enough to have in the bank would be none of their goddamn beeswax.
What gets me is that they're all supposed to be lovey-dovey kindness with the Nation's Wellbeing foremost at heart.
Bullshit to that when there is seemingly no discussion allowed because it will upset the MSD staff.
Double bullshit when this Mob continue to ignore the advice of the WEAG and refuse to raise benefits to even slightly above punitive levels.
We have been there on the SLP and having to borrow to bring the ends together…we are more than conscious of the fact that having $$$ in the bank makes us privileged in comparison.
It is clear to us that the attitude of those working for MSD has not changed….the Lovingkindness is certainly not trickling down.
My heart goes out to those stilL on the SLP.
refresher for you Rosemary…
https://youtu.be/AtgfzzwoyK4
Increase the tax take and redistribute
'One hopes this was taken out of context, but even so it’s an extraordinary statement from an influential economist apparently advocating for the wellbeing of a vulnerable group of NZ citizens but taking such an ageist and ableist approach. '
The economist is taking a neolib view. People are secondary to the big business interests that have established their stranglehold on our world. As secondary people can be moved around to whatever strategic economic base is chosen. Old people have value for business in purchasing aids such as small motorised vehicles and also for housing, but in the end they fall apart and require intensive nursing which is costly.
The young also require intensive nursing and care and have reached in numbers a cost-benefit ratio where the problems created by their unwellness and anti-social difficulties require remediation. So to maintain balance in welfare and not disturb the status quo, there needs to be reduction in the amount allocated for the growing numbers of elderly and make that available for the young.
The government has sold its soul, in order to make gold out of straw, and can do little of value for the people though that was once its accepted role. Rumplestiltzkin has come back for his next payment, and the cost is further abandonment of control over destinies, which will be masked by wild promises to those who consider themselves favoured and entitled.
So government lacks the ability to move intelligently, wisely and compassionately to pass laws that are requested and which carried out carefully, will answer observable problems. And we elders who wish can't choose the option of lawful managed demise, through euthanasia, but be forced to an abrupt, managed suicide or to live on with unnecessary expense of time and money and promises of clean beds and enduring care as long as our hearts keep ticking.
We are made vulnerable from not being allowed to decide when we will die, not just because our bodies and minds have become frail as is the common concept. The care for the vast numbers of elderly can't be afforded under the budget allowed for this, except by underpaying the carers, and because there is a fixed welfare budget, denying the young the full care and services they need. So rob Peter to pay Paul, is the neolib economist's answer and if he wasn't regarded as neolib, his statements belie the perception.
Another academic think tanker 'starting the conversation' his 'influencers' want on an MSM soapbox.
out of context sums it up nicely Weka, out of touch/reality and ignoring the sector of society not paying it's way which if they did this wouldn't even be a 'conversation'.
I really wish the MSM didn't do this 'blind' reporting where we are given quotes but can't see where/when/how they came about.
I don't think Eaqub is as bad as those quotes seem, but I hope that he isn't and I have no way of knowing at the moment.
Either way, he doesn't strike me as someone who understands the value of centreing the people most affected. In contrast with someone like Jess Berenston-Shaw how makes an effort to not pull down others while addressing the needs of specific vulnerable people. It's a very different cultural approach.
Don't take it from the elderly, take it from the super rich with a financial transactions tax! Mind you, if Shamubeel Eaqub actually suggested that it would probably be the end of being sought out by the media for comment đ
Totally agree – the 'us' and 'them' is the rest of us vs the rich. Every other category is irrelevant. (Well, except the SUPER rich of course.)
Dead right a financial transaction tax is anathema to the elite ruling class.
Central banks have created so much money ,that real productivity and the imbalance between short and long term debt has become the catalyst for low and negative interest rates .
The capital available flows into stocks,bonds and RE and not into the hands of the rank and file to spend into the economy.
This magic show has lasted 12 years now ,and looking at Japan could run much longer.
Collapse the artificial markets in derivatives , tax the wealthy and reform the banking cartel system seem the only solutions.
I think msm should be interviewing Weka!
Nailed it on multiple points including UBI…grrrrr…
People just don't understand how our system works against people and ultimately itself creating welfare winners/losers. One particularly nasty side effect of media coverage is that beneficiaries (incl those working with subsidies) who can make their budgets work and even save for retirement going into judgement against those who cannot. After all if THEY themselves have enough clearly anyone who doesn't is a druggie/gambler/dumbass who needs to learn cooking skills, gardening and basic math. This is so very wrong…the system design ensures severe pockets of deficiency and enforced dependency and shame. The division of broad groups such as "pensioners" etc won't identify were the division of privilege vs poverty lie as it comes down to individual circumstances.
We need as many people as possible to understand this ^^ point before spouting policy concepts based on an afternoon's reading. Hopefully then we can ensure system changes don't cause more harm.
Decrepit? Our oldest generation now are not boomers but their parents, if that label is going to be used (which I agree is wrong and sloppy besides).
Eaqub and other policy analysts have previously talked clearly in generalisations about economic trends across whole generations, not specific subgroups or people. Of course it won't apply to everybody. For instance,
https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/property/117270716/home-ownership-at-lowest-level-in-70-years-economist-says-baby-boomers-to-blame
I first saw this pattern spelled out ages ago by an NZ academic in the immediate aftermath of our first Act govt in 1984 – which looks like it's back as an ebook: https://www.bwb.co.nz/books/selfish-generations
Policy-led advantages have followed that generation throughout its life – schooling, employment, income tax rates, housing, and now superannuation.
What other label should we use as shorthand if not Boomer?
Think the framing is unnecessarily narrow….we are not squabbling over the welfare pie, we are squabbling over the pie.full stop (or at least we should be).
What is the one simple thing we could do that would address the myriad of groups and issues that are evident in our society?….reduce inequality.
What is the best (and proven) method of reducing inequality?…..redistribution through taxation.
Why do people (of all political persuasions) dislike tax?….because they dont perceive a personal benefit for the outlay.
Theres an obvious solution, but one that takes some planning and work but most importantly the will and recognition of the requirement……and salesmanship
Labour need to be doing something about rest homes for the elderly, they are beyond disgusting. Take your assets, feed you crap, are mentally abusive, tax them why dont you.
Dont think many elderly will be voting Labour next election, open your eyes Labour.
I agree. I'm hoping I die before I get to that stage.
A reason why I am keen to stay and die in my own house rather than go to a rest home
So many bad story's about rest homes and so called care.
Unfortunately Eaqub is still a mainstream economist. This makes him convinced that tax and spend can ultimately only redistribute wealth. But the govt can today fund poverty relief programs without defunding any other programs or even collecting more tax (these two goals are not in competition for scarce resources except in Equabs mind).
I still think a job guarantee program (in addition to better funding existing welfare) would do a lot for poverty relief via the following mechanisms,
* providing secure income to those who want to earn it.
* improving career prospects (due to more consistent in work history) for people who struggle to find secure work.
* improving self image for the participants.
* improving later work prospects of children of participants.
Getting the NZ left (especially the established elite) to accept progressive taxation/redistribution is far more doable than convincing them (and the electorate) of the validity of MMT, especially in the face of international opposition.
Western europe operates within the current paradigm on considerably higher tax to GDP rates
No, its just the constant framing which confuses people. This and the people like you who understand the MMT description of the economy is cogent but prefer the mainstream simplification of assuming the economy is effectively in equilibrium because then you don't need to justify that bonkers belief system.
Once people understand that to the government, government money is just like tickets, then its pretty simple to understand.
you know my reservations around MMT and I suggest to you I'm far more generous than most, you are not going to convince the elite its an option, certainly not until /if a major economy or a substantial proportion of our trading partners accept and adopt it
I may have over-estimated your fluency in MMT then. Its not something which can be adopted, its just a more coherent description of how the economy functions by incorporating the way governments spend.
Apparently this was never clear enough in our discussions about effects on the forex markets, but simply put, when the government deficit spends today by borrowing or taxation this is accounting equivalent to what happens if the govt does the same spending without borrowing or taxation.
yes stick to your accountancy and continue to ignore market reaction…I am not going to rehash old arguments as it is a pointless exercise…you promote MMT and I do not….leaving that aside do you honestly think its more likely to be accepted by the elite than progressive taxation/redistribution?
If the elites understand it or not seems to be as relevant to its economic effects as understanding gravity is to its physical effects. The same things happen if you undertstand them better or worse though making predictions becomes easier/harder if you apply/don't the better understanding.
You should also understand accounting equivalent means the equivalent transactions occur in the same markets. Why your mental model (for how the market reacts) then draws different conclusions about what happens just appears bizarre, but i guess your as welcome to hold your own personal economic belief system as anybody else is.
didnt answer the question I notice
Why would i answer your irrelevant question?
you truly are a pompous prick arnt you
I am inherently sceptical, especially about economists.
Eaqub was being deliberately provocative. Choice of words was unfortunate.
As a 77 year old peasant on 2.4 hectares shared with sheep, cattle ,horses.
I also drive a rural school bus run 40 weeks a year.
Where the hell does this theoretical dreamer touch reality?
Not all women are weaker than all men. Some women will be stronger than some men.
Doesn’t make “men are stronger than women” a nonsensical statement.
The elderly are richer than the young.
An unfortunate quoted comment.
As a natural born sceptic I view economists with somewhat jaundiced eyes.
I had the misfortune to study it as well.
Income testing is excellent, definitely needs a debate. It will probably get mixed into the capital gains tax debate from Simon and her mates
Telling the privileged rich list that they night have to lose a few dollars is unmentionable.
I am sure the intellectual heavyweights at the tax payers union will have a lot to spray about