Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi: how is gay babby formed?

Written By: - Date published: 7:20 pm, November 23rd, 2012 - 83 comments
Categories: gay rights, you couldn't make this shit up - Tags:

The Government Administration Committee is hearing submissions on the Marriage Equality Bill.  Ostensibly the purpose is to gather the views of the nation in order to make judgements on how the Bill might move forward to become New Zealand law.

On the other hand, it may just be about Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi MP delivering a fantastic performance art piece on the ludicrously blinkered worldviews of [some of] the Bill’s opponents.

First there’s his asking a same-sex couple “who would be the husband and who would be the wife” if they got married.  Props to the couple for being able to field a witty answer, as I know overcoming one’s natural reaction of standing there flabberghasted must have been difficult.

Earth to Mr Bakshi:  They’d both be husbands.  Or they could both be wives.  Or they might call each other “partner” or “spouse” (if the Bill passes; currently I understand civilly-unioned folk can’t use the term legally).

If, as I do somewhat suspect, Mr Bakshi was asking who would take the working / driving / lightbulb changing / penis-insertion role, and who would take the cooking / cleaning / screaming at tiny spiders / penis-envelopment role … well, I think that’s just a little personal for a Select Committee hearing, don’t you?

Then he saw fit to ask Jordan Carter – who in a spirit of encouraging empathy had asked the Committee to consider a role-reversal situation – where babies would come from if everyone turned gay.

Let’s add into the mix the fact that previously, he’d informed an anti-equality protest that the majority of National MPs voted against the Bill – which they didn’t.

The options are this:  Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi is a complete embarrassment of a human being, someone who really thinks same-sex couples are aliens from another planet whose ways Are Not Our Ways, and also a liar;

or Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi is a brilliant satirical performance artist.

My faith in humanity begs me to go with the latter; my brain says nope.

83 comments on “Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi: how is gay babby formed? ”

  1. Zorr 1

    There is one facet that he left out that maybe he should pursue because then he could potentially get all those Step-Daddy National MPs on his side.

    I mean, what if a couple of men decided to get married and raise a child – since men form most of the domestic violence/child abuse statistics, wouldn’t that mean that incidences of abuse would double? Won’t anyone think of the children!

    *clutches pearls*

    • KJT 1.1

      Well no.
      They did some research in the USA which found that children of gay parents ended up as well adjusted on average as any other kids.
      And just for the rednecks. Their kids were no more likely to grow up gay than anyone else’s.

      It is not catching! 🙂

  2. Rogue Trooper 2

    nope

  3. karol 3

    Damn, life must be really hard for those heterosexual couples.  What do they do if the wife is absent when wifely things need doing & ditto for those husbandly things?

    Do the husbands go hungry, and the wives sit around in the dark cos no-ones there to change the lightbulbs?

    As for the rest of the husbandly and wifely duties…. must be damn hard being left alone for too long!

    • QoT 3.1

      Well, wifeless husbands are obviously Strong Manly Men who can go hunt wild mammoth for their dinner if need be. And it’s not a problem for husbandless wives to sit in the dark, because without a man around to serve they don’t have anything to do anyway. #theworldaccordingtoBakshi

  4. karol 4

    We call also apply that excellent logic to everything else:

    If everyone in the world was…..  wh** would….?

    If everyone in the world was rich, who would drive the rubbish trucks?

    If everyone in the world had 2 babies, where would they all live?

    If everyone in the world was an MP, who would there be to lie to?

    If everyone in the world was a journalist, who would write the stories about Duncan Garner?

     

    • Dr Terry 4.1

      This idiot poses the question, “Where would babies come from if everyone turned gay?” What a nonsensical hypothesis! There is no “if” about it, as this cannot and will not happen. Should there be “fewer” babies it hardly matters in a world already over-populated.

      • bbfloyd 4.1.1

        Actually, it would be a blessing if there was a whole generation of gays born…

        The technology to create pregnancy has been around for decades, and the high likelyhood of the vast majority choosing only one, or two children to have would have a releiving effect on planetary recourses…

        As well as freeing up exponentially greater “thinking” time, which would inevitably lead to greater progress toward truly mature solutions to long standing social/technical problems….

        Possibly even allow for a greater appreciation for the benifits of true egalitarian democracy, once the room for thought has been entrenched……

        So I’m presented with two possibilities…..One.. Johnny sparkles was(for whatever reason) thinking of mr Bakshi when he had his “batshit” moment…….

        Or two…. mr Bakshi’s name will go down in the annuls of history as the genius who introduced the concepts that saved humanity from imploding…..

        Decisions, decisions……

        • Populuxe1 4.1.1.1

          In most developed countries a maximum of two children is pretty much the norm anyway – so I’m not entirely sure what your point is.

          • karol 4.1.1.1.1

            I was just challenging the (implicit) logic that that the purpose of humans is to reproduce, therefore everyone should have children.

            I was talking about 2 children per person – that would double the world population each generation & over-load the planet pretty quickly, threatening the survival a large proportion of the species, if not all humans.

  5. KJT 5

    Seriously though. When are some people going to realise that we have had the “age of enlightenment”.

    A few centuries ago now.

    Long past time to get rid of medieval religious attitudes.

    • karol 5.1

      Actually, the kind of logic he’s using is as much the legacy of enlightenment thinking as being medieval European: dividing and classifying the world into categories and binary oppositions such as man/woman; gay/straight etc.

      • KJT 5.1.1

        You may be right. I was thinking of the rise of science over superstition.

      • kiwi_prometheus 5.1.2

        “binary oppositions”

        Spouting the usual failed deconstructionist nonsense again, Karol.

        “using is as much the legacy of enlightenment thinking”

        Here we go, the antiscience Irrationalist mumbo jumbo from Team Feminists.

        After all Karol’s Feminism is centered in the Uni English Literature Department where they spend their time and tax payer money “deconstructing” Jane Austen’s Northhanger Abby and engage in other forms of self fingering pedantry. This has spilled over into the Social “Sciences”, which produces dodgy “research” that surprise, surprise, is in strict keeping with Feminist “theory”.

        My personal favourite at the moment is the crazy Feminist claim that Newtons Laws actually form a “rape manual!”

        Feminist LOVE crying “rape!”.

        LOL, what a wonderful contribution Feminists are making to our civilisation’s knowledge.

        Little wonder they spend their time and energy trying to take down science and academic standards.
        Much like their sworn enemy Team Jesus really.

        • QoT 5.1.2.1

          My personal favourite at the moment is the crazy Feminist claim that Newtons Laws actually form a “rape manual!”

          Still stuck on this key message from Men’s Rights manual, k_p? It’s from 1986. The author retracted it. And it’s clear you don’t understand the actual point she was making anyway.

          • kiwi_prometheus 5.1.2.1.1

            “And it’s clear you don’t understand the actual point she was making anyway.”

            The whole point of Deconstructionism is that nobody is suppose to be able to understand anyone else anyway, remember?

            Its complete gibberish of course and allows Feminist cranks like Ms Harding to talk shit about men and get paid tax payer money for it.

            “The author retracted it. ”

            You mean Harding did? If so, good.

            ” It’s from 1986.”

            So?

            • QoT 5.1.2.1.1.1

              The whole point of Deconstructionism

              [citation needed]

              get paid tax payer money for it.

              [citation needed]

              You mean Harding did?

              How is Google formed?

        • One Tāne Huna 5.1.2.2

          Dear Lord,

          To hear the cries of the privileged is a heavy burden.

          Please help Kiwi Prometheus overcome his fear and quit his feeble whining.

          Yours faithfully,

          Amen.

          OAB.

        • Rogue Trooper 5.1.2.3

          there is some “truth” in that

        • karol 5.1.2.4

          I see what you did there, k_p. 🙂

          You’re doing well in perfecting the construction of Irrationalist mumbo jumbo. 

          The alumni must also be pleased that you managed to raise the issue of rape, as it was clearly overlooked in the original post, and I have been quite remiss: in my 30+ posts on TS, I have failed to mention it.

          PS: you clearly have not seen my CV.

  6. Saarbo 6

    I know a few Singhs/Sikhs and I understand his views are not the views of his culture or religion, he is on his own. He is an arsehole all on his own doing.

    Adding to that, apparently Sikhs tend to be Left of centre…so he’s a real freak.

    • QoT 6.1

      For me the baffling thing is not just that he’s a narrow-minded bigot, it’s the complete lack of basic critical thought applied to his beliefs. No, Mr Bakshi, the entire population of New Zealand is not going to magically turn gay overnight if we allow same-sex marriage. Why would this even need to be explained???

      • karol 6.1.1

        Doesn’t that kind of logic derived from the idea that males and females were created differently so they could reproduce? … and then they argue that the purpose of living is to reproduce the species etc – but then there’s a bit of a leap to the idea that the human race would die out if everyone was gay.

        • Saarbo 6.1.1.1

          I would suggest that trying to understand his logic will do your head in, I watched him on TV…a very weird man. Even weirder than your average Nat….

        • Chris Miller 6.1.1.2

          And then there’s studies done that show that younger children have a higher incidence of being gay and suggestions that perhaps this is a deliberate quirk of nature so that the same sex couples can help the rest of the community in raising kids and etc without actually adding to the population – after all, the most stable society in the long term is a small scale one where an extremely vital part of that stability is due to control of the birth rate. Too much population growth was a BAD thing for most of human history.

        • rosy 6.1.1.3

          Doesn’t that kind of logic derived from the idea that males and females were created differently so they could reproduce?

          Oops – maybe Mr Bakshi should think about that. After all, it’s not gay couples that produce gay children.

      • felix 6.1.2

        “No, Mr Bakshi, the entire population of New Zealand is not going to magically turn gay overnight if we allow same-sex marriage. Why would this even need to be explained???””

        I love that argument. I love seeing bigots admit that the only thing stopping them from ditching their current lifestyle and becoming a massive gay is that they’re not allowed to.

        • KJT 6.1.2.1

          I wonder if a lot of homophobia is because the homophobic is secretly worried if it was allowed they themselves would be gay. Or that they think it may be catching.

        • kiwi_prometheus 6.1.2.2

          Felix is a hypocrite.

          Manginas on this site come up with little jems like “women are generally more civilised than men” and its not a problem at all with Felixs ilk.

          Feminists and their fawning mangina sycophants are gender bigots.

          • QoT 6.1.2.2.1

            Yes, and people who call other men “manginas” are just Fighting The Power … 🙄

            • kiwi_prometheus 6.1.2.2.1.1

              “women are generally more civilised than men”

              Your obviously ok with the above ^ too, QoT.

              Yet if the opposite was stated, you would shit your pants.

              Man hating hypocrite.

              • QoT

                I chose not to engage with that comment. I have more than enough fun just dealing with your far-less-thoughtful whinging.

                Still waiting for that proof I hate all men. Any day now, snookums.

                • kiwi_prometheus

                  “I chose not to engage with that comment.”

                  Because you are a man hating hypocrite.

                  [lprent: You’re just lucky that QoT has been moderating this post and didn’t take action on this comment. I’d have given you at least twice your last ban and probably a permanent ban. Read the policy on personally attacking authors. ]

          • felix 6.1.2.2.2

            “Felix is a hypocrite.

            Manginas on this site come up with little jems like “women are generally more civilised than men” and its not a problem at all with Felixs ilk.”

            lolwut?

            Who told you that?

            • felix 6.1.2.2.2.1

              Hey kiwi_prometheus,

              Seeing as you’re probably going to get banned really soon for your horrible bigotry, would you mind awfully answering my question first?

              And yes, I do expect it will be “awfully”.

  7. AsleepWhileWalking 7

    I watched an episode of Oprah which covered being gay around the world. From Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi’s weird comments I assumed it was a cultural thing(??)

    Oprah had a LOVELY prince from India on the show who had married and tried to play the role society had cut out for him, but eventually he had to come out. Disowned by his family he exuded such peace around him and total self acceptance I found it was a spiritual experience just to watch him through the TV.

    Quote:
    “Prince Manvendra knew if he told the world he was gay, it could cost him the throne and his freedom. In India, sexual acts between people of the same sex are illegal and punishable by 10 years to life in prison.”

    Read more: http://www.oprah.com/world/Gay-Rights-is-a-Global-Civil-Rights-Revolution/3#ixzz2D2S9wsnh

    Hope Bakshi will eventually drop his judgements around SSM and come to a place of peace or at least come to the realisation that the world won’t fall apart when the Bill passes.

    • AsleepWhileWalking 7.1

      Quote:

      The queen took out an ad in a newspaper to announce she was disowning her son and threatened to hold anyone who referred to the prince as her son in contempt. “I wasn’t shocked. Actually I don’t blame her. I blame her ignorance,” Prince Manvendra says. “As most of the Indians do about homosexuality. They are very, very, insensitive and unavailable on the whole issue.”

      Read more: http://www.oprah.com/world/Gay-Rights-is-a-Global-Civil-Rights-Revolution/3#ixzz2D2SsaFCc

    • Saarbo 7.2

      AWW, I think indian culture is pretty diverse, over 1.2b. Sikhs make up 2% around 20m. Soooo, no doubt some will be bigots, etc , etc. But from what I have been told Sikhism split from the Hindu religion in the 1500’s to reject the caste system. Its a religion that is supposed to be open minded and accepting of all. But like other cultures it will have its share of idiots like Bakshi, I just dont want the next time someone sees a Sikh they automatically think he/she is a bigot. The principals of the Sikh religion could be worse. 

  8. xtasy 8

    What do I know about Kanwajit Singh Bakshis?

    http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10591650

    http://www.sikhiwiki.org/index.php/Kanwaljit_Singh_Bakshi

    That is what war reported on the man before. Maybe he got cleared, but I somehow do not trust that man.

    That is my feeling, right or wrong.

    Re “babbys” of “gay” parenthood, I feel his mind is running wild and he believes also gay’s minds are running wild and thus may be “dangerous” and “harmful”, creating “gay babies” out of mindsets and undue influences?!

    Is this not just the price to pay, and the adverse side of, cultural diversity?

    Get me right, I met middle eastern men who are or have been abusing women, and they were legally accepted as residents and citizens in NZ.

    So “gay” or not so “gay”, there are some bizarre characters about, and some even sit in Parliament, under the watch of Hone Key!

  9. xtasy 9

    The next suggestion by such characters will be: They simply want to “raise” “adopted” children to “make” them gay, so they can “abuse” them as minors in all their “privacy”, right?

    This is homophobia gone wild, and I saw that MP talk to one NZ First MP, who also in their collective voted against the bill.

    Officially they want more public input and a referendum, but some NZ First MPs are just as bad as this man, Prosser being one of them!

  10. millsy 10

    As a Sikh, Bakshi should know all about being discriminated against, and treated like a second class citizen, getting the funny looks, being called a terrorist, etc and so on simply because of the life you wish to live.

    Goes to show, ethnic minorites can be just as rednecked as the rednecks.

  11. PlanetOrphan 11

    I’ve heard Singh Bakshi’s crap my entire life , it’s childish perceptions applied to humour in an attempt to break peoples hearts, which causes the human body to convulse in an attempt to re-start the heart.
    i.e. Laughter.

    In Singh Bakshi’s case it should be tears, the mans’ a bigot plain and simple.

    The one question he needs to ask is “What if I was Gay ?”

    • kiwi_prometheus 11.1

      Lots of gays aren’t interested in marriage or the supposed “right” to it.

      • QoT 11.1.1

        Strangely enough, that’s not how rights work, k_p.

      • PlanetOrphan 11.1.2

        What people call their union is up too them,
        It’s not the countrys’ body, nor is it it’s place too tell you how you live in it.

        • kiwi_prometheus 11.1.2.1

          You’re the one who was going on about women being more civilised than men.

          You are totally discredited.

          • PlanetOrphan 11.1.2.1.1

            Fair Enough KP.

            You’re right , I will defend those weaker than myself.

            Lets toe the line buddy ….
            You get the first hit M8! …..

  12. kiwi_prometheus 12

    Marriage is between a man and a woman. Its not marriage otherwise.

    Team Feminists hate marriage, they hate men and they hate heterosexuals. Just look at the crazy shit their “intellectuals” publish.

    They are not the true Left.

    It’s no coincidence that the New Right have surged ahead at the same time Team Feminists rocked on up to the Left camp.

    • Daveosaurus 12.1

      Marriage is between consenting adults. It’s not marriage otherwise. The gender of the consenting adults, and what they get up to behind closed doors, is nobody’s business but their own.

      • kiwi_prometheus 12.1.1

        Fuck off!

        Marriage isn’t about “what [ consenting adults ] get up to behind closed doors”.

        It involves the acknowledgement by the society/community which is EVERYONE’S BUSINESS.

        • Colonial Viper 12.1.1.1

          Sticky Beak

        • Treetop 12.1.1.2

          Marriage is a contract between two people. Whether or not the community approve or disprove of the union is neither here nor there as a relationship thrives only when both in it want it.

        • Daveosaurus 12.1.1.3

          I’ll believe that’s the case once the Government sets up a public web-cam in your bedroom. Until such time as it does, what goes on in other people’s own bedrooms is no more anyone else’s business than what goes on in yours.

          • Tracey 12.1.1.3.1

            I suspect little goes on in there. Some Hetereosexuals, like KP spend more time thinking about homosexual’s sex lives than most homosexuals spend thinking about their own sex lives…

            • felix 12.1.1.3.1.1

              Probably for the same reason that I spend more time thinking about Christmas dinner than I do thinking about Santa Clause 😉

        • Populuxe1 12.1.1.4

          You do realise that transexuals have been able to marry as the gender they’ve transitioned to for years, don’t you? How does that fit in your narrow little worldview?

        • Tracey 12.1.1.5

          You seem very angry. Why does this topic bring out so much anger in you KP?

    • karol 12.2

      It’s no coincidence that the New Right have surged ahead at the same time Team Feminists rocked on up to the Left camp.

      It also coincides with the drop in the road toll in NZ

      Another great victory for feminism – safer roads! 

    • Roy 12.3

      Is kiwi-prometheus really such a fool and a bigot, or is he satirizing stupid bigots?

      If he is really such a fool and a bigot, I wish he hadn’t used the name of Prometheus, the Titan who gave fire to mankind. Prometheus was always one of my favourite mythological characters. Damn.

  13. Treetop 13

    People who are being marginalised against need to fight for their rights to be treated equally and fairly.

    Bakshi has some way to go regarding educating himself when it comes to the rights of same sex couples.

    • kiwi_prometheus 13.1

      “People who are being marginalised against”

      They are being no more marginalised against than QoT and Karol are because they don’t qualify for the All Blacks.

      • QoT 13.1.1

        Booooooooooooooriiiiiiiiiiiiiiing. Haven’t your handlers come up with a new missing-the-point analogy yet?

        • kiwi_prometheus 13.1.1.1

          If I’m so boring, fuck off then.

          Thought you would be playing Saturday soccer or softball now anyway.

          Actually you would probably make a good prop in rugby, they need to be heavy.

          • QoT 13.1.1.1.1

            Wow, k_p, that was almost a subtle “lol you’re a manly lesbian” dig. Almost.

            • kiwi_prometheus 13.1.1.1.1.1

              Of course you feel free to mouth off about men, its only ‘unfair’ when its dished out to you.

              Then you have to run crying to lprent to put me in lock down right?

              [QoT: No, dipshit, then I get to fucking moderate you because I’m a fucking author. One more gendered dig and you can consider yourself banned from my posts.]

              [lprent: I own the backend of the system and QoT does not. She can and does moderate pretty well and she usually see the comments on her posts long before I do a sweep. I mostly observe and if I need to, will enforce. ]

              • kiwi_prometheus

                WTF?!

                You make gendered digs all the time about straight white guys. No doubt telling yourself its ok because you think you’re fighting for equality and justice and they are the sworn Enemy!

                • QoT

                  As ever, you are welcome to provide citations. Just do try to avoid “subtly” questioning my gender performance or sexual orientation (or that of other commenters) while you do.

                  • Colonial Viper

                    [QoT: No, dipshit, then I get to fucking moderate you because I’m a fucking author. One more gendered dig and you can consider yourself banned from my posts.]

                    There’s a certain elegance to your writing, I have to say.

                • AsleepWhileWalking

                  I think you are just rude. You use unnecessary swearing to punctuate arguments, the ban can’t come soon enough. Good thing this place is well moderated.

  14. Rogue Trooper 14

    Jesus Wept. Mary and Martha.
    feet of clay after thinker

  15. Tracey 15

    I just need it explained to me exactly how giving same sex couples the legal right to get married changes the lives of heterosexual couples who choose to marry? Relying on a definition from a bible or some other book is not enough, definitions change all the time. For example the word gay used to mean happy, then it meant homosexual and then it was used as a word to denigrate anything dislike by the user of the word… so marriage will mean a union witnessed by the state (and a fee charged for it) between two consenting adults of a minimum age. This will also mean that homosexual couples can’t claim superannuation as two single supplements and so on. Those who bemoan the welfare system ought to be pleased with this side-effect.

    I for one am so sick of how the words in books written about an invisible deity have to be “respected” no matter how unproven or absurd, but basic human compassion can be ignored.

    Some facts about gender and other bias. I suspect some here continue in the belief that what they believe must be true.

    ““…The only way to do that would be by a randomized controlled experiment. This means creating a situation where all variables other than the one of interest are held equal, so that differences in outcome can indeed be attributed to the one factor that differs. If it’s gender bias we are interested in, that would mean comparing reactions toward two identical human beings – identical in intelligence, competence, lifestyle, goals, etc. – with the one difference between them that one is a man and one is a woman. Not exactly a situation that exists in the real world.

    But in a groundbreaking study published in PNAS last week by Corinne Moss-Racusin and colleagues, that is exactly what was done. On Wednesday, Sean Carroll blogged about and brought to light the research from Yale that had scientists presented with application materials from a student applying for a lab manager position and who intended to go on to graduate school. Half the scientists were given the application with a male name attached, and half were given the exact same application with a female name attached. Results found that the “female” applicants were rated significantly lower than the “males” in competence, hireability, and whether the scientist would be willing to mentor the student…

    The scientists also offered lower starting salaries to the “female” applicants: $26,507.94 compared to $30,238.10…”

    http://blogs.scientificamerican.com/unofficial-prognosis/2012/09/23/study-shows-gender-bias-in-science-is-real-heres-why-it-matters/

  16. Vicky32 16

    [QoT: Vicky, you’re not nearly as funny as you think. Please be advised that future comments on my posts in complete disregard of my moderation and lprent’s advice will result in creative editing on my part.]

    [lprent: one week ban. you have already been warned. ]

Links to post

Recent Comments

Recent Posts

  • Agreement delivers Local Water Done Well for Auckland
    The Government has delivered on its election promise to provide a financially sustainable model for Auckland under its Local Water Done Well plan. The plan, which has been unanimously endorsed by Auckland Council’s Governing Body, will see Aucklanders avoid the previously projected 25.8 per cent water rates increases while retaining ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    22 hours ago
  • Gaza and the Pacific on the agenda with Germany
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters discussed the need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, and enhanced cooperation in the Pacific with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock during her first official visit to New Zealand today.    "New Zealand and Germany enjoy shared interests and values, including the rule of law, democracy, respect for the international system ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • Decision allows for housing growth in Western Bay of Plenty
    The Minister Responsible for RMA Reform, Chris Bishop today released his decision on four recommendations referred to him by the Western Bay of Plenty District Council, opening the door to housing growth in the area. The Council’s Plan Change 92 allows more homes to be built in existing and new ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago
  • Speech to New Zealand China Council
    Thank you, John McKinnon and the New Zealand China Council for the invitation to speak to you today.    Thank you too, all members of the China Council. Your effort has played an essential role in helping to build, shape, and grow a balanced and resilient relationship between our two ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago
  • Modern insurance law will protect Kiwi households
    The Government is modernising insurance law to better protect Kiwis and provide security in the event of a disaster, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly announced today. “These reforms are long overdue. New Zealand’s insurance law is complicated and dated, some of which is more than 100 years old. ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago
  • Government recommits to equal pay
    The coalition Government is refreshing its approach to supporting pay equity claims as time-limited funding for the Pay Equity Taskforce comes to an end, Public Service Minister Nicola Willis says.  “Three years ago, the then-government introduced changes to the Equal Pay Act to support pay equity bargaining. The changes were ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago
  • Transforming how our children learn to read
    Structured literacy will change the way New Zealand children learn to read - improving achievement and setting students up for success, Education Minister Erica Stanford says.  “Being able to read and write is a fundamental life skill that too many young people are missing out on. Recent data shows that ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago
  • NZ not backing down in Canada dairy dispute
    Trade Minister Todd McClay says Canada’s refusal to comply in full with a CPTPP trade dispute ruling in our favour over dairy trade is cynical and New Zealand has no intention of backing down. Mr McClay said he has asked for urgent legal advice in respect of our ‘next move’ ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago
  • Stronger oversight for our most vulnerable children
    The rights of our children and young people will be enhanced by changes the coalition Government will make to strengthen oversight of the Oranga Tamariki system, including restoring a single Children’s Commissioner. “The Government is committed to delivering better public services that care for our most at-risk young people and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago
  • Streamlining Building Consent Changes
    The Government is making it easier for minor changes to be made to a building consent so building a home is easier and more affordable, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says.      “The coalition Government is focused on making it easier and cheaper to build homes so we can ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago
  • Minister acknowledges passing of Sir Robert Martin (KNZM)
    New Zealand lost a true legend when internationally renowned disability advocate Sir Robert Martin (KNZM) passed away at his home in Whanganui last night, Disabilities Issues Minister Louise Upston says. “Our Government’s thoughts are with his wife Lynda, family and community, those he has worked with, the disability community in ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • Speech to New Zealand Institute of International Affairs, Parliament – Annual Lecture: Challenges ...
    Good evening –   Before discussing the challenges and opportunities facing New Zealand’s foreign policy, we’d like to first acknowledge the New Zealand Institute of International Affairs. You have contributed to debates about New Zealand foreign policy over a long period of time, and we thank you for hosting us.  ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • Accelerating airport security lines
    From today, passengers travelling internationally from Auckland Airport will be able to keep laptops and liquids in their carry-on bags for security screening thanks to new technology, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Creating a more efficient and seamless travel experience is important for holidaymakers and businesses, enabling faster movement through ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • Community hui to talk about kina barrens
    People with an interest in the health of Northland’s marine ecosystems are invited to a public meeting to discuss how to deal with kina barrens, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. Mr Jones will lead the discussion, which will take place on Friday, 10 May, at Awanui Hotel in ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • Kiwi exporters win as NZ-EU FTA enters into force
    Kiwi exporters are $100 million better off today with the NZ EU FTA entering into force says Trade Minister Todd McClay. “This is all part of our plan to grow the economy. New Zealand's prosperity depends on international trade, making up 60 per cent of the country’s total economic activity. ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • Mining resurgence a welcome sign
    There are heartening signs that the extractive sector is once again becoming an attractive prospect for investors and a source of economic prosperity for New Zealand, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. “The beginnings of a resurgence in extractive industries are apparent in media reports of the sector in the past ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • Ō-Rākau Remembrance Bill passes first reading
    The return of the historic Ō-Rākau battle site to the descendants of those who fought there moved one step closer today with the first reading of Te Pire mō Ō-Rākau, Te Pae o Maumahara / The Ō-Rākau Remembrance Bill. The Bill will entrust the 9.7-hectare battle site, five kilometres west ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago
  • Government to boost public EV charging network
    Energy Minister Simeon Brown has announced 25 new high-speed EV charging hubs along key routes between major urban centres and outlined the Government’s plan to supercharge New Zealand’s EV infrastructure.  The hubs will each have several chargers and be capable of charging at least four – and up to 10 ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago
  • Residential Property Managers Bill to not progress
    The coalition Government will not proceed with the previous Government’s plans to regulate residential property managers, Housing Minister Chris Bishop says. “I have written to the Chairperson of the Social Services and Community Committee to inform him that the Government does not intend to support the Residential Property Managers Bill ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago
  • Independent review into disability support services
    The Government has announced an independent review into the disability support system funded by the Ministry of Disabled People – Whaikaha. Disability Issues Minister Louise Upston says the review will look at what can be done to strengthen the long-term sustainability of Disability Support Services to provide disabled people and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago
  • Justice Minister updates UN on law & order plan
    Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith has attended the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva and outlined the Government’s plan to restore law and order. “Speaking to the United Nations Human Rights Council provided us with an opportunity to present New Zealand’s human rights progress, priorities, and challenges, while responding to issues and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago
  • Ending emergency housing motels in Rotorua
    The Government and Rotorua Lakes Council are committed to working closely together to end the use of contracted emergency housing motels in Rotorua. Associate Minister of Housing (Social Housing) Tama Potaka says the Government remains committed to ending the long-term use of contracted emergency housing motels in Rotorua by the ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago
  • Trade Minister travels to Riyadh, OECD, and Dubai
    Trade Minister Todd McClay heads overseas today for high-level trade talks in the Gulf region, and a key OECD meeting in Paris. Mr McClay will travel to Riyadh to meet with counterparts from Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). “New Zealand’s goods and services exports to the Gulf region ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    7 days ago
  • Education priorities focused on lifting achievement
    Education Minister Erica Stanford has outlined six education priorities to deliver a world-leading education system that sets Kiwi kids up for future success. “I’m putting ambition, achievement and outcomes at the heart of our education system. I want every child to be inspired and engaged in their learning so they ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    7 days ago
  • NZTA App first step towards digital driver licence
    The new NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) App is a secure ‘one stop shop’ to provide the services drivers need, Transport Minister Simeon Brown and Digitising Government Minister Judith Collins say.  “The NZTA App will enable an easier way for Kiwis to pay for Vehicle Registration and Road User Charges (RUC). ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    7 days ago
  • Supporting whānau out of emergency housing
    Whānau with tamariki growing up in emergency housing motels will be prioritised for social housing starting this week, says Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka. “Giving these whānau a better opportunity to build healthy stable lives for themselves and future generations is an essential part of the Government’s goal of reducing ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    7 days ago
  • Tribute to Dave O'Sullivan
    Racing Minister Winston Peters has paid tribute to an icon of the industry with the recent passing of Dave O’Sullivan (OBE). “Our sympathies are with the O’Sullivan family with the sad news of Dave O’Sullivan’s recent passing,” Mr Peters says. “His contribution to racing, initially as a jockey and then ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    7 days ago
  • Speech – Eid al-Fitr
    Assalaamu alaikum, greetings to you all. Eid Mubarak, everyone! I want to extend my warmest wishes to you and everyone celebrating this joyous occasion. It is a pleasure to be here. I have enjoyed Eid celebrations at Parliament before, but this is my first time joining you as the Minister ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    7 days ago
  • Government saves access to medicines
    Associate Health Minister David Seymour has announced Pharmac’s largest ever budget of $6.294 billion over four years, fixing a $1.774 billion fiscal cliff.    “Access to medicines is a crucial part of many Kiwis’ lives. We’ve committed to a budget allocation of $1.774 billion over four years so Kiwis are ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Pharmac Chair appointed
    Hon Paula Bennett has been appointed as member and chair of the Pharmac board, Associate Health Minister David Seymour announced today. "Pharmac is a critical part of New Zealand's health system and plays a significant role in ensuring that Kiwis have the best possible access to medicines,” says Mr Seymour. ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Taking action on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
    Hundreds of New Zealand families affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) will benefit from a new Government focus on prevention and treatment, says Health Minister Dr Shane Reti. “We know FASD is a leading cause of preventable intellectual and neurodevelopmental disability in New Zealand,” Dr Reti says.  “Every day, ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • New sports complex opens in Kaikohe
    Regional Development Minister Shane Jones today attended the official opening of Kaikohe’s new $14.7 million sports complex. “The completion of the Kaikohe Multi Sports Complex is a fantastic achievement for the Far North,” Mr Jones says. “This facility not only fulfils a long-held dream for local athletes, but also creates ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Diplomacy needed more than ever
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters’ engagements in Türkiye this week underlined the importance of diplomacy to meet growing global challenges.    “Returning to the Gallipoli Peninsula to represent New Zealand at Anzac commemorations was a sombre reminder of the critical importance of diplomacy for de-escalating conflicts and easing tensions,” Mr Peters ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Anzac Commemorative Address, Buttes New British Cemetery Belgium
    Ambassador Millar, Burgemeester, Vandepitte, Excellencies, military representatives, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen – good morning and welcome to this sacred Anzac Day dawn service.  It is an honour to be here on behalf of the Government and people of New Zealand at Buttes New British Cemetery, Polygon Wood – a deeply ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Anzac Commemorative Address – NZ National Service, Chunuk Bair
    Distinguished guests -   It is an honour to return once again to this site which, as the resting place for so many of our war-dead, has become a sacred place for generations of New Zealanders.   Our presence here and at the other special spaces of Gallipoli is made ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 weeks ago
  • Anzac Commemorative Address – Dawn Service, Gallipoli, Türkiye
    Mai ia tawhiti pamamao, te moana nui a Kiwa, kua tae whakaiti mai matou, ki to koutou papa whenua. No koutou te tapuwae, no matou te tapuwae, kua honoa pumautia.   Ko nga toa kua hinga nei, o te Waipounamu, o te Ika a Maui, he okioki tahi me o ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 weeks ago
  • PM announces changes to portfolios
    Paul Goldsmith will take on responsibility for the Media and Communications portfolio, while Louise Upston will pick up the Disability Issues portfolio, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced today. “Our Government is relentlessly focused on getting New Zealand back on track. As issues change in prominence, I plan to adjust Ministerial ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 weeks ago
  • New catch limits for unique fishery areas
    Recreational catch limits will be reduced in areas of Fiordland and the Chatham Islands to help keep those fisheries healthy and sustainable, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. The lower recreational daily catch limits for a range of finfish and shellfish species caught in the Fiordland Marine Area and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 weeks ago
  • Minister welcomes hydrogen milestone
    Energy Minister Simeon Brown has welcomed an important milestone in New Zealand’s hydrogen future, with the opening of the country’s first network of hydrogen refuelling stations in Wiri. “I want to congratulate the team at Hiringa Energy and its partners K one W one (K1W1), Mitsui & Co New Zealand ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 weeks ago
  • Urgent changes to system through first RMA Amendment Bill
    The coalition Government is delivering on its commitment to improve resource management laws and give greater certainty to consent applicants, with a Bill to amend the Resource Management Act (RMA) expected to be introduced to Parliament next month. RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop has today outlined the first RMA Amendment ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 weeks ago

Page generated in The Standard by Wordpress at 2024-05-05T22:25:51+00:00