Labour – “Ready to Win”
Written By:
- Date published:
3:10 pm, August 10th, 2014 - 135 comments
Categories: david cunliffe, election 2014, labour -
Tags: campaign launch
E rau rangatira ma
E te whanau o te roopu reipa
Piki mai, kake mai haere mai
Te tangi a te pipiwharauroa
Te Po
Ka Awatea!
Whiti ao – whiti ao – whiti whiti Ao
Hello Labour
Hello New Zealand
Today is about you. It is about the launch of your future, your vision, your belief in creating a better New Zealand.
This election is going to be about a choice – probably one of the clearest that we have had as a country in a generation.
And it’s not just about two leaders, or even a contest between two parties.
This election is fundamentally about two very different pathways to two very different futures for New Zealand.
It’s a choice between prosperity for all, or only for a few.
It’s a choice between a new path to a higher value, more sustainable future, where every person matters. Or the current path of selling ourselves short and deepening the divides.
I believe – every one of us in the Labour Party believes – that it is people that matter most.
That, at the end of the day, we are all worth exactly the same.
And I believe that our people are a community, and are not commodities.
I believe that when the least fortunate of us does better, we all do better.
I believe that in this country nobody should be left out or left behind.
But I also believe that New Zealand has lost its way.
That after another 3 years, heading in the direction we’re heading, we just won’t know this country.
Our rivers will be dirty. What’s left of our assets will be sold. And so will vast tracts of our land. We will be tenants in our own country.
Is that the choice we want to make?
I don’t think so.
Labour refuses to stand by and let this generation of young New Zealanders become the first to do worse than their parents.
It wasn’t that long ago that we were considered to be the small, smart jewel of the South Pacific.
A creative, plucky country punching well above our weight. Where everyone could dare to dream the Kiwi dream, where if you worked hard and played by the rules – everyone, not just some, could get ahead.
We need to reclaim that vision, and make it our own again.
We can and we will.
We will do it for the mother of two teenage boys who works 60 hours a week cleaning and cannot sleep from worry that she doesn’t have enough time to keep them on the rails.
We’ll do it for the little kid in West Auckland admitted to Starship because of respiratory disease caused by the black mould growing in the bedroom in his cold, damp home.
We’ll do it for the professional couple in Christchurch who’ve been waiting for three years for the insurance cheque that means they can finally move on with their lives.
And for the grandmother who sits in her cold flat wrapped in blankets because she cannot pay both the power bill and the doctor.
We’ll do it the small manufacturer who is laying off workers – his own mates – for the third time as his business slowly, but surely, goes under, due to the high Kiwi dollar.
A Labour government will make New Zealand a fairer place, and a better place.
By strengthening the right of every New Zealander to have a warm, dry, comfortable home.
By strengthening, not neglecting, support for our schools, hospitals and universities.
By building, not deferring, a high-value, high knowledge, sustainable economy that will create good jobs.
It’s called a better New Zealand.
Decent jobs are at the core of any decent society. It’s what we in Labour have always stood for.
And with decent jobs come decent homes. Strong and stable communities.
Where Kiwis can bring up their families – where they can thrive.
Work.
Home.
Family.
It doesn’t get much more basic than that.
That’s what matters to New Zealanders. That’s what matters to us.
The Government I lead will put people first. It will make sure every single person matters. That together we all do well.
We want jobs for all New Zealanders, not just some. We want good schools for all New Zealand kids, not just some. We want decent healthcare for all New Zealanders, not just some.
Jobs
Nowhere is the choice we face clearer than in the economy, and the jobs it creates.
The world is recovering from what is probably the largest global financial crisis of our time.
You were told that everyone had to tighten their belts – and that everyone would get their fair share of the so-called “rock star” recovery.
In fact, that party was short and not everyone got invited, but the hangover will be experienced by the vast majority.
Dairy prices are plummeting. Interest rates, mortgages and living costs are rising faster than incomes.
A few did live like rock stars: the top 10% now owns 90% of the wealth.
The wealthy got massive tax cuts that they didn’t need, while GST was raised on everyone – even though they said they wouldn’t.
The IRD tells us half the richest 100 Kiwis aren’t even paying the top tax rate.
Privatisation made inequality worse. They sold half of your energy companies even though you said no. Now only a few New Zealanders own those assets that we all paid for.
Now they want to sell our land from under us too: over a million hectares have been approved for overseas sale by the current government – sixteen times the size of Lake Taupo!
What’s going to be left if they get another three years to sell off and sell down our future?
Safe hands, clear thinking
New Zealand needs a clear plan for a prosperous, sustainable future where the benefits actually do flow to all New Zealanders.
Only Labour has that plan.
A coherent and future-focused economic upgrade that is built on firmer foundations than milk prices and insurance cheques.
We have a robust fiscal plan, that will run surpluses every year, that will pay off National’s record debt in our first two terms, and will get unemployment down to 4% by the end of our first term.
Labour is being open and transparent about what we are doing and how.
We’ve released our fiscal strategy early. It’s clearly costed and affordable – thank you David Parker.
Our policies are all banked and paid for.
In our alternative Budget, we showed that we had more policies costed and ready to roll out during the campaign – including the ones we’re announcing today.
And we’ve got some more important ones still to come.
You can afford to do a lot of good in government when you’re not spending all your cash on tax cuts for the very wealthy.
And when you back New Zealand and New Zealanders to create wealth.
And Labour will.
We will drive investment, we will drive innovation.
We will back industry on its journey from volume to value.
Universal KiwiSaver will build investment in our businesses.
Our monetary policy will make our exports more competitive.
Enhanced research and development will boost innovation.
We will back Kiwi businesses with pro-growth tax reform
We will back them by getting government to Buy Kiwi Made.
And by growing New Zealand’s wealth and opportunities.
And we’ll back every region and every sector in this country.
That’s what our $200 million regional development fund is for.
To boost infrastructure to create jobs.
And with Labour’s economic upgrade, all New Zealanders will benefit – not just the privileged few.
We will raise the minimum wage by $2 an hour to $16.25 in our first year of government.
That will put another $4,000 a year into the pockets of hardworking Kiwis. And that means more money in circulation to rebuild local businesses and our economy from the ground up.
It will raise the living standards of a quarter of a million New Zealanders and their families.
We’re also going to restore those work rights that this government has taken away. Rights that give Kiwis the ability to negotiate a decent deal.
You know what? The Government has made it very clear that one of the first things they want to do if they get back is take away your lunch break and your smoko!
Homes
Right now there’s a housing crisis in New Zealand. We have the lowest home ownership in 50 years, and rents are outstripping incomes.
For a whole generation of New Zealanders, the Kiwi dream of home ownership is slipping out of reach.
Talk to any young New Zealander these days, and they’ll tell you that no matter hard they work and how hard they save they’ll never own a home like their parents did.
Our plan means putting people to work building 100,000 affordable new homes with KiwiBuild.
That will give so many young families an opportunity they don’t currently have to get into a home of their own.
Education
On the current path Education is being undermined.
Undermined by charter schools.
Undermined by league tables.
Undermined by fiascos like Novopay, like unlawful school closures, like paying hundreds of millions of dollars to take good teachers out of their schools and turn them into middle management.
We know the best education is critical. That’s why we stand for a strong, affordable, world-class state education that is there for every Kiwi kid.
To achieve that we’ll ensure our kids have access to digital devices and 21st century learning spaces.
We’ll offer schools $100 per student so that parents – and even kids – are no longer pressured to pay so-called “voluntary” donations.
And we will make sure that class sizes are smaller and kids have more one on one learning by hiring 2,000 more teachers.
Our education policies are about excellence, opportunity and fairness.
We’ll make sure that every student, no matter where in the country they are from, or how wealthy their parents are, gets the education they deserve.
That’s how we will get the society where everyone can have opportunities to get ahead.
Health
But we all know kids don’t leave their lives at the school gate. They can’t learn if they’re hungry. They can’t learn if they don’t have a warm, dry home, or if they’re sick.
Our health – and the health of our families – is our greatest treasure.
But right now our health system is forced just to be the ambulance at the bottom of the cliff, because too many people can’t afford to get the care they need.
We will take a different path. We want people to be healthy, and to make sure they can access the best care when they get sick.
It’s why we won’t just pay to treat diseases like rheumatic fever; we’ll actually deal with the overcrowding and the cold, damp housing that causes it in the first place.
That’s why we’ll make sure every rental is warm and dry with our Healthy Homes Guarantee.
That’s why we’ll bring in the Best Start payment. $60 a week so new parents have enough money to look after their babies’ needs. And we’ll tackle child poverty by increasing the minimum wage.
It’s a Kiwi value, a Labour value, that it is your need that should determine the healthcare you get, not the size of your wallet.
I know this first-hand. When I was growing up, my Dad got desperately ill. He had a series of heart attacks starting when he was 55.
Dad got great care from our public health system and that meant he could go on caring for me, for my family and others for another two decades.
That drove home to me how important strong public healthcare is to making sure we get well and stay well.
But that is being lost on the path the current government is on.
Despite what they will tell you, health funding hasn’t kept up with population growth and inflation.
There’s been a real cut of $200 million per year since 2008.
Last year more than half a million New Zealanders needed to see a doctor, but couldn’t afford an appointment. That is a disgrace.
And a quarter of a million New Zealanders didn’t fill their prescriptions because they couldn’t afford it.
These are people who went to the doctor, who were found to be sick and needing medicine, but who didn’t get treatment because they didn’t have the money.
This is not the New Zealand we believe in. We’re a better country than that.
The Labour Government I lead will back quality, affordable, universal healthcare for all.
We’ll make sure the health budget keeps up with rising costs and our growing population with a billion dollar annual increase for health and education.
That means any new funding we announce is real money that will make a real difference in New Zealanders’ lives.
For example, last week I announced a $60 million boost for primary healthcare.
That will give 700,000 more New Zealanders free or heavily discounted GP visits.
Because getting to the doctor early means not waiting until things get desperate.
Building on that, today I’m going to lay out a step-change in our health system.
We are going to radically reduce the cost and improve the quality of healthcare for hundreds of thousands more New Zealanders.
And we’re going to focus most on those who are most in need, because that’s the right thing to do.
That’s why I’m proud to announce Labour will make doctors’ visits and prescriptions free for all New Zealanders aged 65 and over.
These are the people who’ve paid taxes all their lives, who face some of the greatest health needs and who are most likely to have fixed incomes.
It’s not just the right thing to do, it’s also the smart thing to do – getting early care can stop a lot of harmful and expensive problems down the line.
Free doctors’ visits and prescriptions for over 65s will make a real difference in the lives of nearly 700,000 older New Zealanders.
Labour will also make GP visits, prescriptions, and dental care free for all pregnant women.
International evidence, including Sir Peter Gluckman’s work, shows a direct link between the health of expectant mothers and that of their children.
Investing in good maternal health will pay dividends throughout the life of a child.
But our highest health needs are not just limited to the young and the old.
Labour will be there for New Zealanders who have long-term health conditions.
On the current government’s path, it’s just not fair that those with the highest health needs have to pay the highest bills. So we’re going to change that.
We’re going to bring a quarter of a million Kiwis into Care Plus and give them four free GP visits a year – and free prescriptions too.
Labour will also make GP visits and prescriptions free for children aged under 13, and increase funding for youth health centres.
The Labour government I lead will invest to make doctors’ visits and medicine free for the Kiwis that need it most – our children, our mothers to be and our senior citizens.
All up, Labour’s health package will give nearly 40% of New Zealanders free doctor visits and prescriptions.
These policies, like all our policies, have been carefully costed as part of our fiscal plan.
It’s budgeted, it’s paid for, it’s there in black and white.
So when our opponents try to claim that we can’t afford better healthcare for New Zealanders – and they’ll try – they won’t be being honest with the public.
And they know it.
Labour’s vision for New Zealand is to build the fairest, most decent society in the world.
The choice to come
What this election is fundamentally about is a choice. And it’s all of our choice.
New Zealanders, we can choose decent jobs for all.
We can choose great education for all.
We can choose kids growing up healthy, warm, and well fed.
We can choose an economy where people can pay their bills, and meet their mortgages and get ahead.
And of course we can choose decent healthcare for those who need it.
Together we can choose to build a society where there is fairness for all New Zealanders, not just the top few percent. Where everyone has the opportunity and aspiration to reach all our potential.
But, sadly, the path our country has been on won’t get us there.
It cannot. It will not.
The current path doesn’t live up to the truest Kiwi values of fairness, decency and respect. Those values that made our country great.
We need to apply those values to the new world of the 21st century so we can build a future where we all succeed together.
I know it’s easy to be cynical about elections. About the sideshows, about the relentless negativity.
And every election we hear voices telling us that there is no alternative and nothing will ever change.
That the problems are all someone else’s fault, or they’re all too hard to solve.
That we should just be happy with what we’ve got because fairness and decency is too much to ask for, and we shouldn’t rock the boat.
We’ve seen where politics as usual gets us.
We’ve seen more children in poverty, more people locked out of home ownership, more families finding their incomes cannot keep up with the rising cost of living.
We know that we can do better. We know we can deliver change for a better New Zealand.
In this election, we can change all of that together.
This election is going to be very close. The choice is here, the choice is now, the choice is real, and it’s ours to make, starting today.
If we want to change the path our country is on, we have to change the government first.
In this election we can chose to lift kids out of poverty, to put our people back to work, to create new businesses, to harness new technology. We can choose to build new homes, support our families and, together, build the fairest, most decent society in the world.
We can choose to do this. We can do this together.
If you want to build a better future for your family and your country.
If you want an end to politics as usual and to build a New Zealand that works for everyone.
If you won’t settle for the past and you want to reach for the future.
Then it’s time to vote for change.
It’s time to Vote Positive.
It’s time to Party Vote Labour.
Thank you.
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Globally, NZ has the second-highest share of its population living overseas permanently, many of them now permanently in Australia. Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāKia ora. Long stories short, here’s my top six things to note in Aotearoa’s political economy around housing, climate and poverty on Tuesday, October 29: A ...5 days ago
- October-24 AT Board Meeting
Today the Auckland Transport board meet again as a whole for the first time in two months. AT note: Members of the public are welcome to join the meeting via Teams. Please note, due to technical difficulties, the video feed will be unavailable. However, attendees will still be able to view ...5 days ago
- The fourth article of the Treaty
While Parliament struggles with David Seymour’s Treaty Principles Bill, a Christian scholar and some heavyweight mainstream church leaders have developed a different perspective on the Treaty of Waitangi. Theologian Alistair Reese presented a petition to Parliament’s Petitions Committee on Thursday asking Parliament to legislate to recognise the oral agreement “4th ...5 days ago
- Gordon Campbell on why so many young males like Donald Trump
To foreigners, the fact that so many millions of Americans are buying the used and poisonous goods that Donald Trump is selling is an unfathomable mystery. However, some clues to the allure of Trumpism can be found in the gender gap of unprecedented size that has opened up between those ...6 days ago
- Building a Safer Future for Every Worker
Every New Zealander deserves a workplace that puts safety and wellbeing first. Too often, we’ve seen the real cost of a system that doesn’t fully protect workers. Lives are lost, families grieving, and communities bearing the burden of preventable tragedies. That’s why, alongside Business New Zealand, the New Zealand Institute ...6 days ago
- Not all authoritarians are fascists.
A few days ago I responded to a post about Trump being a fascist on one of my friend’s social media page, then made a few comments on the consultancy social media page by way of follow up. Given the … Continue reading ...6 days ago
- Keep the Vampires From Your Door
I'll protect you from the hooded clawKeep the vampires from your doorWhen the chips are down I'll be aroundWith my undying, death-defying love for youEnvy will hurt itselfLet yourself be beautifulSparkling love, flowersAnd pearls and pretty girlsLove is like an energyRushin' an' rushin' inside of me, ehSongwriters: Brian Philip Nash ...6 days ago - The Odd Couple.
Strange Political Bedfellows: Matthew Hooton’s support for Winston Peters’ New Zealand Futures Fund reflects the Radical Right’s newfound reluctance to bet everything on the efficacy of market forces.AS IF HE WASN’T IN ENOUGH TROUBLE, Matthew Hooton has now come out for Winston Peters’ New Zealand Futures Fund (NZFF). Not only ...6 days ago
- Your Friends Should Be Close By
Hi,I’ll never forget the time the guy next to me on the plane got really angry because the Wi-Fi wasn’t working. Here we were, 40,000 feet in the air, and he couldn’t get Facebook. He was huffing, he was puffing. He was insufferable.I’m constantly amazed you can get the internet ...6 days ago - 2024 SkS Weekly Climate Change & Global Warming News Roundup #43
A listing of 30 news and opinion articles we found interesting and shared on social media during the past week: Sun, October 20, 2024 thru Sat, October 26, 2024. Story of the week As an experiment, we asked Google's Gemini for help categorizing the articles we shared during the week. ...7 days ago
- Labour Weekend
Stand up all victims of oppressionFor the tyrants fear your mightDon't cling so hard to your possessionsFor you have nothing if you have no rightsLet racist ignorance be endedFor respect makes the empires fallFreedom is merely privilege extendedUnless enjoyed by one and allSongwriters: Eugene Edme Pottier / Petrus Christianus De ...1 week ago - Fact brief – Do volcanoes emit more CO2 than humans?
Skeptical Science is partnering with Gigafact to produce fact briefs — bite-sized fact checks of trending claims. This fact brief was written by Sue Bin Park from the Gigafact team in collaboration with members from our team. You can submit claims you think need checking via the tipline. Do volcanoes emit ...1 week ago
- People of Courage & Decency. And Everyone In Between.
Today, news broke that Jeff Bezos, the American billionaire with a net worth of $206 B (NZ $344B), personally vetoed Washington Post’s Editorial Team from endorsing Kamala Harris.That stops the decades-old tradition of the Wapo for endorsing Presidential candidates. And editors have resigned - that includes Editor at large Robert ...1 week ago - Let’s Talk About… Anything.
Can't we talk about anything else but love?Love that launched a thousand shipsPlease! Let's talk about anything else but loveLove that causes war and famineCan't we speak about real estate?Love of wifeWatergate?Love of children!Seasonal fluctuations in the prime interest rate?Love of chocolate, you must love chocolate, everybody loves chocolate, say ...1 week ago - Can you hear me now?
1 week ago - Why Nations Fail
This year’s Nobel awards in economics raise critical issues about the future of the world.I was not alone with high hopes when the Soviet Union collapsed. It has been good to see various nations leave the yoke of the Soviet Empire and move towards liberal democracies with thriving economies although ...1 week ago - All very instructive
1. Who played the sax solo on Gerry Rafferty’s Baker Street?a. Kenny Gb. Lisa Simpsonc. Bill Clintond. Raphael Ravenscroft2. What did Nicola Willis, addressing a large gathering of senior public servants this week, ask them to do?a. Come up with fresh ideas and innovative audacious out of the box thinking b. ...1 week ago - More Sabotage
The Waitangi Tribunal has been one of the most effective critics of the National government and its racist, anti-Māori agenda. So naturally, they're sabotaging it with a crony appointment: Former ACT Party leader Richard Prebble has been appointed to the Waitangi Tribunal. Prebble, a Commander of the British Empire, ...1 week ago
- Ghost of a (Mad) Dog
How can that dog be barkin' in the backyard?We ran over him years agoHow can that dog be runnin' by the backfence?We ran over him years agoGhost of a dogBarkin' in the backyardSongwriters: Edie Brickell, Kenny Withrow.I have to say this one caught me by surprise. I had to check ...1 week ago - David Seymour’s School Lunch Provider Has Questionable Record – Including Listeria, Hors...
Yesterday, I looked into Seymour’s school lunch provider and found out it was Compass Group - a group that has had a long list of food quality issues and settled out of court for corruption and bribery of officials.Never mind the food looked like slop - heavy, process laden food ...1 week ago - After years of cover ups and hacks, the truth on gas is out
Long stories short, here’s the top six news items of note in climate news for Aotearoa this week, and a discussion above between Bernard Hickey and The Kākā’s climate correspondent Cathrine Dyer:Gas is worse for the climate than coal, over any timeframe that is relevant for a ‘bridging strategy’. The ...1 week ago
- Brown orders motorway building to start before business case done
Kia ora. Long stories short, here’s my top six things to note in Aotearoa’s political economy around housing, climate and poverty on Friday, October 25: Scoop of the day: Oliver Lewis reported for BusinessDesk-$$$ this morning that Transport Minister Simeon Brown ordered construction to start on the four-lane Hawkes Bay ...1 week ago - The Hoon around the week to October 25
The podcast above of the weekly ‘Hoon’ webinar for paying subscribers on Thursday night features co-hosts & talking about the week’s news with:The Kākā’s climate correspondent on the latest climate news, including another extreme climate event in the United States; on the escalating conflict between Israel, Iran ...1 week ago
- Weekly Roundup 25-October-2024
Happy Friday, even more so as we’re head to a long weekend, so welcome to another round-up of interesting stories about what’s happening in Auckland and other cities. Feel free to add your links in the comments! This post, like all our work, is brought to you by a largely ...1 week ago
- Skeptical Science New Research for Week #43 2024
Open access notables The rate of global sea level rise doubled during the past three decades, Hamlington et al., Communications Earth & Environment: The rise in globally averaged sea level—or global mean sea level—is one of the most unambiguous indicators of climate change. Over the past three decades, satellites have ...1 week ago
- Does New Zealand need Vegas-style transit security on our busses?
There’s a reason why people are supposed to stay on the Strip when they go to Las Vegas, and it’s not just proximity to the best attractions. This city of fluorescent lights and gambling halls extends in all directions across the Nevada landscape, for as far as the eye can ...1 week ago
... 
- Greens call for bottom trawling ban and call out Minister for lacklustre response
The Green Party is urgently calling on the Government to ban bottom trawling, following news a New Zealand bottom trawler caught 37kg of coral in international waters, prompting the suspension of all fishing in the area until 2026. ...2 days ago - Mark Patterson: Farmers understand we have their backs
Spring is here which means the start of the A&P show season. Those treasured community days where town meets country. There's no rural-urban divide here, just a chance to meet up with family and old friends and celebrate all things that make rural New Zealand so special. I'm embarking on ...3 days ago - Release: Funding for Gumboot Friday should pause
The National Government should review its support for Gumboot Friday after unacceptable comments by its leader and champion Mike King. ...3 days ago - Louise Upston cherry-picks data to punch down on the poor
The Government has very conveniently cherry-picked data from the latest MSD projections to justify its cruel agenda and punch-down policy when it comes to people living in poverty. ...3 days ago
- Luxon needs to address the cow in the room
The Green Party was appalled to hear Prime Minister Christopher Luxon claim we are “doing everything we can” on climate change, while his government does nothing to address emissions in our most polluting sector. ...5 days ago
- Govt Must Clean Up ‘Its Shit’ From Sunken HMNZS Manawanui
Te Pāti Māori is calling out the Government and New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) for their inaction and disgraceful downplaying of the impact caused by the sunken HMNZS Manawanui in Samoa. “We demand the Government move without further delay to clean up its shit from the sunken HMNZS Manawanui in Samoa,” said co-leader Debbie ...7 days ago
- Jamie Arbuckle: Inquiry into Banking Competition
This week was the start of the bank inquiry hearings into banking competition. The inquiry was confirmed in the NZ First/National Coalition agreement. 140 submissions were received on the inquiry, and we will hear from over 60 submitters including all the major banks. ANZ, New Zealand's largest bank, was first ...7 days ago
- Tanya Unkovich: It’s time to start the debate on palliative care as a ‘right’
There is one topic that is the great human leveller, and that is of death and dying. One day, we will all have to face it, and I am of the belief that being able to pass away with grace and dignity is a vital, basic, human right. How we ...1 week ago
- Release: Labour backs Christchurch City Council sanctions on Israel
Labour is backing Christchurch City Council’s decision not to do business with firms involved in Israel’s illegal settlements in the Occupied Territories. ...1 week ago
- Release: Government driving away offshore wind industry
The Government has created a hostile environment for companies seeking to build offshore wind farms. ...1 week ago
- Another step towards Pasifika justice
The Green Party acknowledges the historical importance of MP Teanau Tuiono’s Member’s Bill, Restoring Citizenship Removed By Citizenship (Western Samoa) Act 1982 Bill, passing its second reading in Parliament today. ...1 week ago
- Sanctions Soar, Jobs Vanish – National’s Cruelty Exposed
Te Pāti Māori is enraged at the National government’s ruthless punishment of beneficiaries, all while jobs are disappearing. MSD data shows a 133% increase in sanctions over the past year, with over 14,000 sanctions in just three months. The kicker? The jobs this government insists people should find are nowhere ...2 weeks ago
- Police Perpetuate Siege on Ōpōtiki
Te Pāti Māori MP for Waiariki, Rawiri Waititi, says today’s police-sponsored terrorism in Ōpōtiki is a continuation of the State’s predatory behaviour towards the iwi of Te Whakatōhea. "Ōpōtiki is once again being intentionally targeted and is the direct byproduct of this Government’s 'tough on crime' legislative changes,” said MP ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Govt cuts school lunches even further
The Government has gone back on its word and cut the full school lunch programme in primary schools after saying it wouldn’t. ...2 weeks ago
- Time to shut down failed Youth Justice Residences
The Green Party is calling for Youth Justice Residences to close, following a protest in which a group of young people spent the night on the roof of an Oranga Tamariki justice facility. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Appalling process on three strikes law
The Government is subverting parliamentary process on laws the evidence already shows don’t work. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Labour calls for investigation into tobacco tax cut
The Government’s decision to award a $216 million tax break for Philip Morris’ heated tobacco products reeks of tobacco industry interference and needs to be thoroughly investigated. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Delay to retirement village review won’t help residents
The National Government is treading water on a much-needed review of the Retirement Villages Act, kicking any amendments down the road till the next parliamentary term in 2027. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Serious concerns ignored in Govt’s fast track bill
National’s fast track bill enables the most radical and unbalanced consenting regime in living memory. ...2 weeks ago
- Fast-Track, off the rails: Submitters show strong opposition to Bill
Despite resounding public opposition, the fast-track legislation is being pushed through Parliament with provisions that could have real consequences for people and planet. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Labour supports continuing fight for dairy access
Labour welcomes the National Government’s decision to further pursue our access to the Canadian dairy market under the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Job losses devastating for Timaru
Confirmed news that the Smithfield meatworks will close is devastating for the hundreds of people who work there, Timaru and the wider region. ...2 weeks ago
- New Zealand First Member’s Bill to Improve Access to Palliative Care
New Zealand First has introduced a Member’s Bill which aims to improve access to palliative care for all New Zealanders, ensuring kiwis have better access to the compassionate palliative support they may need. The ‘Improving Access to Palliative Care Bill’ seeks to guarantee that every New Zealander has the right ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Further uncertainty for Kiwirail as jobs set to go
KiwiRail offering voluntary redundancy to all its staff is hugely concerning given the future of New Zealand’s rail system is under threat. ...2 weeks ago
- ASA Declares Hobson’s Pledge Advertising Misleading and Socially Irresponsible
Te Pāti Māori Co-leaders Rawiri Waititi and Debbie Ngarewa-Packer welcome today’s ruling from the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA), which found that a Hobson's Pledge advertisement regarding customary marine titles was misleading and socially irresponsible. The two-page wraparound ad, published in The New Zealand Herald, suggested that nearly the entire coastline ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Benefit numbers continue to soar under National
National’s all pain approach to beneficiaries has yielded no gain as benefit numbers continue to surge past projected figures. ...2 weeks ago
- Casey Costello: What Once Was…
Entering politics is a privilege afforded to very few and, as the saying goes, with great power comes great responsibility. Being an MP is a call to service. Whatever your politics you have a duty to show up. Whatever your party's policy, you have made a promise to those who ...2 weeks ago
- Soaring benefit sanctions push more into poverty
Sanctions on beneficiaries have sky-rocketed since the Coalition Government came to power, pushing more families into poverty. ...2 weeks ago
- International Energy Agency issues wake-up call on climate action
Today’s report from the International Energy Agency highlights how far this Government’s actions are dragging us backwards in the fight against climate change. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Lack of funding puts pressure on frontline Police
News that 173 roles are being cut at Police will only put more pressure on the frontline. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Bipartisan agreement on outdated marriage law
Changes to outdated relationships legislation has passed its third reading giving family violence survivors the power to quickly dissolve abusive marriages. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Cuts to Apprenticeship Boost will fail future NZ
The Government’s cuts to the Apprenticeship Boost programme will leave New Zealand without the workforce it needs to build homes, schools and hospitals. ...3 weeks ago
- Release: Sluggish economy means struggles ahead for Kiwis
While today’s inflation numbers are good news for Kiwis, there are still struggles ahead with rising rents, rates, insurance and high unemployment. ...3 weeks ago
- CPI figures show rents continuing to soar
Stats NZ has confirmed that higher rent prices were the biggest contributor to the annual inflation rate. Almost a fifth of the 2.2 per cent annual increase in the CPI was due to rent prices. ...3 weeks ago
- Todd McClay to lead large trade mission to China
Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay will lead a large trade delegation to the 7th annual China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai next week, followed by a visit to Guangzhou. This year, almost 70 New Zealand companies will participate in CIIE, to interact with over 3,400 exhibitors and 410,000 visitors. “This ...1 hour ago - New Charter to guarantee better access for hunting and fishing
Minister for Hunting and Fishing Todd McClay has today launched an Access Charter (the Charter) to ensure better access for recreational hunting and fishing on public conservation land (PCL) across New Zealand. “This Charter establishes guiding principles for the Department of Conservation (DOC) to provide clear and transparent decisions on ...1 day ago
- Pou Whenua blessing honours Tongariro
A beautiful new Pou Whenua at the beginning of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing will introduce visitors to the sacred landscape they are entering, says Conservation Minister Tama Potaka. Mr Potaka attended a blessing for the specially carved Pou Whenua at Mangatepopo, at the start of the track on 1 November. ...2 days ago
- New members appointed to the NZTA Board
Transport Minister Simeon Brown has today announced two new appointments to the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) Board. Mary-Anne Macleod and Mike Rudge have both been appointed as members for three-year terms commencing 1 November 2024 and ending 31 October 2027. “Transport is a critical part of our Government’s plan ...2 days ago
- Welcome relief from new oestradiol gel funding
Associate Health Minister David Seymour is welcoming Pharmac’s funding of oestradiol gel, following global shortages of oestradiol patches earlier this year. “I’m well aware of the stress caused by the global shortage earlier this year. At the time I said I was confident Pharmac was working hard to find a ...2 days ago
- Deputy Prime Minister visit to Australia
Foreign Minister and Racing Minister Winston Peters will visit Australia next week. “Australia is New Zealand’s closest partner, and we are pleased to make this second official visit there for 2024 following the first ever Foreign and Defence Ministers 2+2 Meeting between our two countries in Melbourne in January,” ...2 days ago
- Applications now open for new training pathway
Applications have now opened for tertiary education organisations to seek Government funding to develop New Zealand’s first postgraduate diploma programme for associate psychologists, Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey announced today. “Investment in this new training pathway supports the Government’s target to grow our mental health and addiction workforce and ...2 days ago
- Increased medicines access continues following budget boost
Associate Health Minister with responsibility for Pharmac David Seymour is pleased to see further increased availability of medicines for Kiwis following the Government’s increased investment in Pharmac. “Pharmac operates independently, but it must work within the budget constraints set by the Government,” says Mr Seymour. “When this Government assumed office, ...2 days ago
- New Zealand concludes high quality trade deal with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)
New Zealand and the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) have concluded negotiations on a trade agreement that will open up significant opportunities for New Zealand exporters in the Gulf region, Minister for Trade and Agriculture Todd McClay announced from Doha today. Today’s announcement follows significant reengagement with the GCC following meetings ...3 days ago
- Government seeks views on remote court attendance
The Government is exploring how to modernise the law around people attending court remotely, to support access to justice and enhance court performance. Courts Minister Nicole McKee says the current law has not kept up with evolving court practices and public attitudes to the use of remote technology, nor been ...3 days ago
- Breast screening age extension begins in Nelson Marlborough
Free breast screening has been extended for 70 to 74-year-old women living in the Nelson Marlborough district, ahead of a national roll-out late next year, Health Minister Dr Shane Reti announced today. “Breast cancer is the most common cancer in New Zealand with about 3,400 women diagnosed with the disease ...3 days ago
- Te Māori Manaaki Taonga Trust Board strengthened
He toi whakairo, he mana tangata. The reappointment of one trustee and the appointment of four new trustees to the Te Māori Manaaki Taonga Trust Board will enable the legacy of Te Māori to be carried forward into the future, Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka and Arts Minister Paul Goldsmith ...3 days ago
- Affordable housing project supporting home ownership
Up to 300 affordable, healthy, community-tailored homes helping to support home ownership are set to be built in eastern Porirua, supported by Government funding for Our Whare Our Fale through the Building Homes for Pacific in Porirua initiative, Minister for Pacific Peoples Dr Shane Reti and Associate Housing Minister Tama ...3 days ago
- Dire benefit forecasts show the need for Welfare that Works
A new report that forecasts young people on benefits will spend an average of 20 more years relying on welfare underscores the need for the Government’s reforms, Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston says. MSD’s latest Benefit System Insights report, released today, which estimates how many future years different ...3 days ago
- Trade Minister travels to Doha for GCC trade discussions
Trade Minister Todd McClay will hold trade discussions with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) trade ministers in Doha this week. Minister McClay will meet with all six GCC Trade Ministers, as well as the GCC Secretary General. “This will be my seventh visit to the region this year including two Ministerial ...4 days ago
- Podiatry prescribers will boost patient care
Health Minister Dr Shane Reti and Associate Minister David Seymour say it’s great news that podiatrists will soon be able to prescribe medicines, meaning patients with painful foot and leg conditions don’t have to make a separate trip to the doctor. “This simple step means a big change for people ...4 days ago
- Historic redress inequities finally resolved for Lake Alice Unit survivors
The Government is addressing historic redress inequities for some survivors abused at the Lake Alice Child and Adolescent Unit. In 2001, the Crown reached a $6.5 million group settlement with 95 survivors subjected to abuse at the Lake Alice Unit. Law firm Grant Cameron & Associates (now GCA Lawyers) represented ...4 days ago
- ERO report shows Government’s truancy emphasis is vital
Associate Education Minister David Seymour says that the Education Review Office’s (ERO) timely report on chronic school absence released today is further evidence of a truancy crisis. “Chronic absence has doubled since 2015. This report reinforces that action is needed to ensure this generation reaches its full potential,” says Associate ...4 days ago
- Minister welcomes business view on AML
Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee welcomes BusinessNZ’s report which addresses reducing the compliance burden on small businesses. “The challenges outlined in the report released today echo many of the concerns I have heard from businesses, which have informed my Anti Money Laundering/Countering Financing Terrorism (AML/CFT) priorities,” she says. “I have ...5 days ago
- Mangamuka Gorge opening in time for Christmas
State Highway 1 through the Mangamuka Gorge will be open for Christmas, with critical work currently underway to clear the large slips and dropouts that have caused significant disruption for Northlanders trying to get where they want to go quickly and safely, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “The Mangamuka Gorge ...5 days ago
- Trusted building professionals able to self-certify
The Government is proposing further significant action to reform the building and construction sector to support more affordable homes and a stronger economy, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says. “If we want to grow the economy, lift incomes, create jobs and build more affordable, quality homes we need a ...5 days ago
- New appointments to the TEC board
Dr Alan Bollard CNZM and Mr Bharat Guha have been appointed to the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) board, Tertiary Education and Skills Minister Penny Simmonds says. “I would like to welcome the two new members joining the TEC board,” Ms Simmonds says. “Dr Alan Bollard CNZM is an experienced public ...5 days ago
- Move to fast-track overseas doctors welcomed
Fast tracking applications for registration by eligible specialist doctors wanting to practice in New Zealand is in line with the Government’s push to improve the health outcomes for New Zealanders, Health Minister Dr Shane Reti says. This fast-track pathway applies to specialists trained in anaesthesia, dermatology, emergency medicine, general practice, ...5 days ago
- Address to Western Sydney University: Constitutional and Rule of Law challenges in current global en...
Tēnā koutou Nau mai haere mai ki tenei hui Thank you to Vice Chancellor Williams, and the University of Western Sydney, for inviting me to speak today. I speak to you today in my capacity as Attorney-General – the New Zealand Crown’s Senior Law Officer. In this capacity, I serve ...5 days ago
- Security advice for start-ups welcomed
Minister responsible for the security and intelligence agencies Judith Collins has welcomed new guidance that aims to protect New Zealand’s start-up and emerging technology sector from the threat of economic espionage. “We are a nation well-known for our ingenuity, and our willingness to openly collaborate in the spirit of enterprise ...5 days ago
- Funding support to strengthen frontline volunteer service organisations
The Government has approved $23.1 million for four critical frontline volunteer service organisations to replace storm-damaged assets and provide training and equipment to improve New Zealand’s response to future emergency events, Transport Minister Simeon Brown and Associate Transport Minister Matt Doocey says. $14.6 million for Surf Life Saving New ...6 days ago
- Jones heads to international mining conference
Resources Minister Shane Jones will speak at Australia's largest annual mining event in Sydney this week to mark New Zealand’s return to the international industry stage. Mr Jones will attend the International Mining and Resources Conference (IMARC) where he will update the sector’s most influential players on the work the ...7 days ago
- NZ investing in Pacific disaster preparedness & climate resilience
New Zealand will contribute $20 million to the Pacific Resilience Facility, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters have announced. “The Pacific Islands region faces severe challenges from natural disasters and climate change impacts and New Zealand is committed to doing its part to help meet them,” ...1 week ago
- Police to increase presence on Auckland public transport
Aucklanders will see a greater Police presence on public transport services to boost safety and reassure public transport workers and passengers, Police Minister Mark Mitchell and Transport and Auckland Minister Simeon Brown say. “Minister Brown and I are working together, alongside Police and Auckland Transport in response to the horrific ...1 week ago
- Government funds helicopter replacements
The Government is investing in eight new emergency helicopters to replace some of New Zealand’s ageing air ambulance fleet, Associate Health Minister Casey Costello and ACC Minister Matt Doocey announced today. “Our air ambulance helicopters play a vital role in saving lives around New Zealand,” Casey Costello says. “This is ...1 week ago
- China and New Zealand strengthen organic trade
An uplift to New Zealand’s organic product trade is expected through a new upgraded arrangement with China, Food Safety Minister Andrew Hoggard says.“The upgraded Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) for organic products will deliver opportunities for our organic export sector.”The upgraded MRA was signed in Central Otago today by Andrew Hoggard ...1 week ago
- Judicial appointments announced
Attorney-General Judith Collins today announced two Court of Appeal and two High Court appointments. The four appointments will take effect on 21 November 2024 and are: Justice Christine French Justice French, who has been appointed President of the Court of Appeal, graduated with an LLB (Honours) from the University of Otago ...1 week ago
- Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track becomes New Zealand’s 11th Great Walk
Conservation Minister Tama Potaka joined tangata whenua from Ngāi Tahu and local community members today to celebrate the opening of New Zealand’s eleventh Great Walk – the Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track. “The 60km upgraded track provides the opportunity to do one of New Zealand’s world-class multi-day walks, and will bring ...1 week ago
- New Chief Criminal Cases Review Commissioner
The Honourable Denis Clifford has been appointed Chief Commissioner of the Criminal Cases Review Commission, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says. Hon Clifford brings a wealth of expertise and experience that will prove invaluable to the Commission. “He has served as a judge at both the Court of Appeal and High ...1 week ago
- Changes to improve building fire safety
The Government is progressing changes to better protect Kiwis and their property from fires, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says. “Following the tragic Loafer’s Lodge fire in 2023, 37 boardings houses across the country were assessed and I am pleased to say that all fire safety recommendations from the ...1 week ago
- Germany and New Zealand partner to support agriculture and tackle global emissions
New Zealand and Germany have announced the official start of a partnership aimed at supporting the agriculture sector and tackle global agricultural greenhouse gas emissions Agriculture Minister Todd McClay announced today. “The partnership, called the Alliance for the Climate – Dialogue on Climate and Agriculture between New Zealand and Germany (Agri-DENZ project), ...1 week ago
- New members appointed to the Waitangi Tribunal
Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka today confirmed the appointment of two new members to the Waitangi Tribunal, as well as the reappointment of Kevin Prime. The members appointed and reappointed are: Hon Richard Prebble (CBE). Mr Prebble is a former Cabinet Minister where he held a broad range of portfolios. ...1 week ago
- New appointments to the Local Government Commission
Local Government Minister Simeon Brown has today announced the reappointment of the current Chair and the appointment of a temporary member to the Local Government Commission.Current Chair Brendan Duffy ONZM has been reappointed as Chair for a one-year term ending 23 October 2025, while Gwen Bull CNZM will be joining ...1 week ago
- New Electoral Commission Chair appointed
Today the House agreed to Justice Simon Moore KC being appointed chair of the Electoral Commission, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says. “Justice Moore brings with him a high level of legal acumen and decision-making ability, strategic planning skills and unquestionable personal integrity and independence. “He retired from the High Court ...1 week ago
- Education Minister attending conference in Australia
The Education Minister is travelling to Australia today to attend the 23rd edition of public policy conference, Consilium. “New Zealand and Australia share common challenges and aspirations for education. New South Wales has recently introduced a new curriculum that is explicit, sequenced and knowledge based while Victoria is requiring structured ...1 week ago
- An Ode for .. Matt Doocey
The Psychopathology of Everyday GumbootsMinister of Mental Health Doocey walks into the counselling session.A shadowy figure in gumboots behind a cloud of cigar smokeMotions to the couch.“Welcome,” says Legendary Viennese Psychoanalyst, Sigmund King. “What seems to be the problem?”“I have this friend,” begins Minister Doocey, “But he only wants to be my ...3 hours ago - US election: Latinos hit back by showing up
A heady mix of barbecued meat, horse poo, and cattle welcomes Latino voters as they walk between the metal fencing and into the arena at Rancho Ochoa.Some of those making their way into the Mexican rodeo in southwest Phoenix are there purely for the action: the bull riding, roping, big ...5 hours ago
- Parliament Library became haunted house for Halloween
Most people might not call Parliament a normal place, but some call it a paranormal place. ...6 hours ago - Healthcare needs go beyond the physical
Opinion: Recent Census data highlights our increasingly secular and multi-faith context. More than half of Aotearoa New Zealand’s population does not identify with any particular faith tradition, and just 32 percent are Christian, down from 36.5 percent in 2018.For people whose spirituality is not associated with a faith or belief ...6 hours ago
- The fascination with Katherine Mansfield
Inspiration to Compose Wellington based- singer-songwriter Charlotte Yates brings together some of New Zealand’s most talented musicians to create a unique concert Mansfield in Her Own Words. In this episode Yates explains her fascination with Mansfield.
https://player.vimeo.com/api/player.jsShe chooses poems for composers and performers including William Ricketts and Brooke Singer. We film Ricketts reflecting on Mansfield’s poem, A Sunset on a ...
6 hours ago - Three reasons America’s democracy is under threat
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Seems like a great speech, great policy, and a great Auckland campaign launch.
Now if the Warriors win my day will be complete…
Good stuff from the next PM.
Lots of snappy soundbites, if not quite up there with JFK, MLK, and Churchill… we still have a mountain to climb, brothers and sisters!
A very uplifting speech. Gives me hope that the Labour led Cunliffe government will make a massive change to the future direction of NZ to help make NZ a much better, fairer, affordable and prosperous country for ALL the people in society, and not just for a small percentage of the wealthy at the top as is happening under this Key led National government.
Bring back Labour, I say!
fishy the sort of 3 way hand shake with jamie whyte unity.
Koch a bully! you must be worried or you wouldn’t be posting!
National have only to loose 10’000 votes and your Koch a hoop bully boy superior smugness will lead you to despair!
Following the Brain Fade leaders lies without question without hard evidence is going to bring you unstuck!
Show us the 16 billion where it is what it is and when is it going to be spent your leader has told you one big fat Lie.
Like a good little Fishyanal you have fallen for it hook line and sinker!
The longest suicide note ever. No vision no sense and no unity.
saying it doesn’t make it so
The Cunliffe said it. You are right -It doesn’t make it so.At the height of Labour’s 2008 election bribery, spending increased by $7b in one year. So far they’ve already promised an extra $16billion!
Now that is truly a suicide note.
Cunliffe -Fantastic-new -innovative!
Fis- yaaawwwnnnn same old…
Cunliffe is a fuckload more reliable than you will ever be.
and the last five budgets have been execution warrants for too many NZers. We need a change.
$16 Billion bribes so far from Labour with nearly six weeks to go. Add in the demands of the Taliban Greens Winston First and Internet Mana needed to cobble together an unholy alliance of losers and the bribe bill will be a whopping $65 Billion.
Rather that than it all going to your small circle of friends, Fisiani. Share and share about, I say.
Share in the debt you mean. A Labour led Davy and the Gimps would cost each and every man woman and child $14,450. That’s the appalling price of failure to Party Vote National. I ask the sensible readers to realise how disastrous that would be and show that you love New Zealand by eschewing your prejudices and like the ABC’s secretly vote for National.
Don’t you mean “That’s the appalling price of failure by voting National”?
Yes, that must be it – surely you don’t mean…no…. it must be an error.
If you love New Zealand – you are supposed to vote Green, Fis; that is their slogan, not National’s. National’s is Working for America if I remember correctly, hang on, I might have got that wrong – it might have been Working for the Devil….or…. Working against New Zealand – something like that anyway. .. Working to Sell NZ…they are very corporate, their hoardings, at any rate – so perhaps it was Working for the Corporations? Not a party I would vote for anyway – they are a bit too behind the times for me.
Show us the money and where it is spent or shutup Fishyanil!
$65billion thats $60’000 for every man women and child National have left the debt legacy so a few well heeled can live it up even more!
“$65 billion” I think you have become confused with how much crown debt National has got us in.
The debt accumulated since 2008 was largely predicted by the Treasury in the 2008 PREFU and was as a result of the fiscal situation left by the last Labour led government.
Exactly how much better could have Labour have left the finances?
It couldn’t have had anything to do with a Global Financial Crisis affecting our trade and thereby reducing revenue.
Or some irresponsible tax increases that National forced Labour to do, and which National then distorted and extended towards the already wealthy after the 2008 election?
Rather than focusing the tax increases into consumption as Labour intended. National largely focused them on to a tiny people who could afford to pay personal debt and proceeded to do so. Effectively in economic terms they wasted it.
As I remember it, Cullen said after the election that his tax cuts from the start of the year were unsustainable in terms of government revenue and costs by the PREFU. But that was the different between budget time and election time. It is a pity that National didn’t stop their planned tax increases until 2 years later when they realised they were ineffectual.
You really are a dumb hypocrite….
and that is without starting in on the smoke and mirrors surplus
I find it hilarious you think National forced Labour into doing anything let alone Tax cuts (which I presume you eroneously called increases). Regardless the biggest impact on the fiscal deteriation was likely the 7 Billion worth of additional spending that Labour put in place in the 2008 budget. This was unsustainable at the time and would have been so even without the impacts of the GFC.
what Bullshit again Gosman so the $ 2.5 billion a year in tax cuts to the already well off were nuetral were they goose no bill english had to raise GST and still has’t balanced the budget = no contributions to the Cullen fund at 2and1/2 billion a year wasted by National on buying upper middle class votes.
Without the huge surpluses from both the Cullen Fund and the ACC fund which National are taxing us by stealth . National would be billions down the gurgler!
So Why has National got a massive hole in its budget after saying tax cuts for the well off will have a tricledown effect (No trickling yet just pissing on peasants from high up). with record milk prices still $700 million down except for ACC grab it would be far worse!
The actual hole would have been bigger if the policies put in place by Labour were not altered in anyway. That is not to suggest Labour wouldn’t have made changes however they seemed very reluctant to reduce any spending over this period.
Fishy Business that $16 billion dollar surplus is arrived at by taking the $14 billion of Nationals promised extra spending and adding the $2 billion extra labour is spending over 4 years to make the figure look bigger than it is !
pure spin and propaganda that is only $500 million more a year than national are spending!
Tax on those like you and me who are going to pay for it you don,t want to pay more tax even though we have had ACC increases and GST increases by National the Party of read my lips no tax increases J ohn Brain Fade Key!
You mean the $14 Billion that is accrued through vehicle licensing, fuel and road user levies allocated to be spent on the roading that the tax was collected from?
If they are stealing all of that funding as you state, who is going to be paying for the maintenance of the roads we have?
Or are you just buying the “pure spin and propaganda” that it is “only $500 million more a year than national are spending” and our existing roading will magically remain safe and well maintained all by itself?
Fishy make it up as you go along.
fisiani, since you are constantly putting down Labour’s policies and throwing around numbers, can you honestly tell me how much the tax cuts bribe alone, that primarily benefited the wealthy, have cost SO FAR for the LAST six years and how much they will cost for the NEXT six years if National were to regain power? Don’t bother about the BS about the GST increase as that primarily punished the poor the most. I am talking here about the National’s TAX CUT BRIBE benefiting primarily the better off in society.
Does that $16b include the $70b Key and Joyce have borrowed and spent since 2008?
Nice.
Fisiani,
A Labour lead Government will be returned this year now the word is out that nat’s have borrowed far more than they are admitting.
You are a troll, why not tell the truth.
Did you not know that since the Nat’s have been in Government they have borrowed from overseas banks an incredible amount of money to pop up things like Roads of National Importance and many other pet projects.
This extravagance has now increased our Crown debt ratio from a low 6% ratio related to GDP up to a staggering 26% ratio to GDP. (treasury figures)
But you bang on about Labour not being “fiscally responsible!!!
Tell the whole story before you all leave.
How can a promise to extend access to health care be a ‘suicide note’?
Unless you like the USA system…
It is all about stating black is white, Millsy – I guess you know that though…
fisi and his paid-for party of the privileged
pretending that business as usual is good enough
doing nothing, helping nobody but themselves
Unity, community, and families is what Labour and the wider left is all about. The current government has split communities, encouraged childcare over parenting, uprooted the unemployed and unemployable, and created an increasingly part time and insecure workforce. There’s plenty of vision for change. Change for the betterment of all New Zealanders.
Don’t cry my baby. Go to Hash-Key. He loves you lots darling!
I was there ,very up lifting very very positive really good policy announcements ,as for Steven Joyce nz cant afford it everyone of labours policy’s has been fully costed and budgeted for by David Parker
dave – forget steven joyce- all he can do is sneer, and sneer,again. He was born that way but thinks it’s born to rule.
Isn’t it sad piseearnie only has here to amuse himself – living alone too long does that.
He turns up here day after day making deluded comments that only right wing wankers believe – and where does he come? He comes here like a lone dog wanting a meal.
and benificiaries will have to stick to their thin gruel…
..once again/still..they were/are the unmentionables..
This delusion and paranoia was brought to you by the letters T, H, and C
i just read thru the speech..have you..?
..if so show me where i missed it..
..and if incorrect i will apologise..
Read and watched.
The word “beneficiary” didn’t come up but neither did “accountants” or “farmers”.
Guess you missed the bits about “fairness and decency”, “universal healthcare” healthier homes, and more state housing.
What about the story about the kid with respiratory problems and black mould in his bedroom? Poverty is a strong theme and a huge motivator for Labour supporters.
So put on your dunce hat and go stand in the naughty corner.
Just recognising that there’s not much benefit of the doubt remaining in reserve re: Labour and unsustainably low benefit levels.
unsustainably low benefit levels, punitive regime, policy and legislation within WINZ. All those need to change in addition to the good things Labour intends to do about health care, housing etc.
+1
we need every person in this country feeling supported, in good morale, and able to contribute what they can to their communities and families. Not dispirited, deconditioned, feeling abandoned and without a place or a role in wider society.
oh..y’know ropata..!
..when the ‘b’-word is never ever mentioned by labour..
..like..’never’..
..then you don’t really have to wonder..
..they really are ‘the unmentionables’..
..both philosophically..and in real terms..
Labour stands for all NZers not just benes… the words “poverty” and “inequality” are bandied about quite freely…
“..Labour stands for all NZers.. (just not) benes..”
there you are..!
..corrected it for you..
Certainly missed the bit about more state housing. Looks again. Nope, still not there. There was the bit about affordable housing for the middle classes though.
I did see the other stuff, but I didn’t see anything about “more state housing”. This is something I have been looking for from parties. Mana and The Greens have policies to build more state houses.
It is a very good left wing speech from Cunliffe, with some very good and strong policies.
However, I’m still waiting for any polcieis specifically on state housing and social security. Maybe they will add polciies on these things at a later date. however, the lack so far, means I really feel the parties that support Labour in government, need to be there to hold Labour to account on such things.
So this statement from Cunliffe:
I disagree with the “only” in the last sentence.
I do think Cunliffe has the makings of an excellent PM. He does do a great speech.
kiwi build, 100 000 houses, all going to the highest bidder? nary a state house on the horizon? methinks ’tis unlikely.
still a far preferable policy to jk’s profusion of holiday motorways that save aucklanders 5 minutes on a long weekend
Ropata so John Key can drive up to his holiday home .
There’s no spending left Karol – only a couple of hundred million in the self-imposed budget straightjacket remain.
This was Labour’s big roll of the dice.
And free health-care for the over 65s is an incredible waste of cash. Poorly targetted, largely unnecessary, and incredibly expensive.
It’s a naked vote grab for the vote-rich elderly demographic, subsidised by the working poor. Workers who will get their superannuation taken away from them until 67.
Labour had a real mandate for bold change, and this is what they served up. I’m disgusted and appalled.
This is shameful.
How the hell can any Labour activist try and sell this to a working age person?
All working age people do get old some day.
What do you think Labour should do? Give free medical care for all working age people too?
Ropata got you there hippy dope-fiend. 😉
“This delusion and paranoia was brought to you by the letters T, H, and C”
Laugh out loud moment 🙂
May be free dope for dopes will fix everything.
Funny. Let’s keep Bennett’s drug testing for benes only then shall we?
“Funny. Let’s keep Bennett’s drug testing for benes only then shall we?”
Who else should msd drug test?
Students, backpackers, protestors, and all users of public transport
IMP supporters, and anyone walking around in bare feet should be invasively body-searched
got to sort out the riff raff…
“Who else should msd drug test?”
Why should they be testing anyone?
Accountability, like drug testing in the work place.
I’ve no problem with being tested for drugs on a benefit because I spend mine on paying the bills and eating etc… What the safety net is designed for.
Only those people that spend their benefit money on drugs should have concerns. If they waste it on pot, they don’t need as much as their getting. If it’s bad lifestyle decisions, then they need budgeting controls imposed upon them.
Of course you can argue, which you probably will, that dolies should be able to spend their money on drugs if they like, but good luck convincing 99% of the population that’s a good idea.
It’s those selfish shits that ruin the system for the genuinely needy, and play no small part in fueling bene bashing.
what bites my balls is that even if some drugs didn’t literally grow in the garden for free, some folks like yourself think that being on the dole means that a person has no right to any recreational pleasure, ever.
why do drugs when you can be puritanical (about other people)?
It’s not restricted to drugs – I’ve heard people criticise beneficiaries for movies, any food that isn’t the most basic, keeping rather than selling books (let alone buying books), even having a pet (even if they had the pet before needing income support).
The slightest bit of comfort for a beneficiary makes some people outraged. I’ve never really understood it.
Quite. Al1en’s argument seemed puritanical. Other people seem like they just need someone to bash, either because they’re having a hard time or because they’re just mean. Then there is the neighbour of the painter on the roof.
“some folks like yourself think that being on the dole means that a person has no right to any recreational pleasure, ever.”
With hand on heart I can honestly say that’s not what I’ve stated at all, anywhere. Spending money on drugs isn’t part of the welfare agreement, literal or otherwise. If it were there’d be a box to tix on the special needs form.
“Quite. Al1en’s argument seemed puritanical. Other people seem like they just need someone to bash, either because they’re having a hard time or because they’re just mean. Then there is the neighbour of the painter on the roof.”
Piss off weka, there’s a love. There’s nothing puritanical about calling out selfish shits. The struggles some endure while on benefits, who we rightfully rally behind, are ridiculed by the actions of some benes who somehow manage to fund drug habits.
“Spending money on drugs isn’t part of the welfare agreement, literal or otherwise.”
What agreement are you talking about? There is no agreement that says that benes have to spend their benefit on anything in particular unless they are asking for extra assistance, and even then extra assistance is dependent on context. The base benefit is theirs to do what they want with. Your view is very puritanical because they assume that all benes are basically the same, and that someone on high has said that while they are a bene they are only allowed x, y, z in their lives, and those things just happen to exclude things that are recreational. Shit, not even the current lot at WINZ agree with that.
So beneficiaries should have absolutely no discretionary income whatsoever?
Piss off.
“So beneficiaries should have absolutely no discretionary income whatsoever?”
I’ve not said that at all, indeed I’ve stated a position that beneficiaries should have extra discretionary income to make them less alienated from society. Should they be allowed to spend state handouts on fags, booze and dope, in my opinion, no they shouldn’t, but feel free to disagree, it is your right.
“Piss off”
As stated, your interpretation of my clear comment is false, so suck your wee back up through a straw and have a pint on me. 🙂
so you hold thet they should have some discretionary income, but it’s not up to them how they spend it.
🙄
I’m arguing they should be allowed extra cash for treats and luxuries taken for granted by everyone else… Except for drink, drugs and cigarettes as one is illegal, one is a huge cause of social problems and domestic violence in NZ, and one kills you, even if it is a slow suicide.
You’re arguing for beneficiaries to be able to drink, smoke and do drugs because it’s unfair that right be denied them. Lulz
So basically people should get a certain level of discretionary pocket money that they’re only allowed to spend on recreation that you approve of.
I suppose prostitutes are out, too. What about fetish cosplay? What about cosplay at comic book conventions?
Why should beneficiaries be restrained by your personal prudishness?
refined sugar kills people too, is that off the acceptable list for benes?
how about gambling? Casual sex? Video games? Violent movies? Reality TV? Seriously, why pick on drugs, alcohol and ciggies? (which many people enjoy without the serious problems).
“You’re arguing for beneficiaries to be able to drink, smoke and do drugs because it’s unfair that right be denied them. Lulz”
Unfair? I was thinking it’s discrimination. Someone isn’t allowed to have a beer, because they’re on sickness benefit, but their flatmate is, because they’re a student. Sorry mate, that’s just weird.
Besides which, drugs, alcohol and cigs can all be consumed without significant negatives. Why deny the good aspects to only benes?
Did you enjoy your pint?
was that your way of saying you didn’t understand a particular comment?
who?
If beneficiaries aren’t allowed booze drugs and parties then nobody should be allowed them.
What is the basis for your discrimination? Sounds like a pile of shit to me mr al1en
lolz vto. Benes should just stay at home then and not go out. Can’t go to the pub or a party, because not smoking, drinking or getting stoned will make all the real people uncomfortable.
Tool 😆
Say it loud and long enough and someone will believe you 🙂
“If beneficiaries aren’t allowed booze drugs and parties then nobody should be allowed them.”
Technically no-one is allowed to use illegal drugs. Whether on a benefit or not.
Just sayin…
I think we are all aware of that technicality. Not sure how relevant it is to the conversation, apart from as you point out it’s illegal for all people not just one particular class of people. Illegal drugs that is, not legal ones.
According to your argument and worldview, benies that grow their own should be exempt from drug testing. Feel free to make the suggestion to the MSD.
I hadn’t picked you for such a moraliser Al1en. You are in good company then with Bennett. Her rationale is that it’s to prevent benes from failing job applications, but I believe there is a fair amount of moralistic shit in her views too.
Nothing wrong with smoking cannabis recreationally. And if NZ wants to force people to live in poverty, which it seems to, then it can hardly expect them not to self-medicate.
Anyhoo, all that aside, my point was about not singling out benes. If you want to force people to not take drugs so that it doesn’t cost the state, you should cast a wider net. Forcing benes is class discrimination.
“benies that grow their own” – Are engaging in a criminal act.
Argument and world view – Typical weka twisting. 🙄 just like the monster jibe is typical divert and attack.
“Nothing wrong with smoking cannabis recreationally”
Apart from being illegal, technically I’d agree with you, but only if you’re paying for it with money that hasn’t been given by the state for the sole purpose of keeping you accommodated and fed. If you can afford pot, you’re getting too much (which we know for most that’s not the case), or you’re spending unwisely in which you case you need help budgeting.
Seriously, your argument won’t fly with 99% of the populace because it’s a shit, selfish one which craps all over the good intentions of the welfare state and most of the people who have to rely on it.
Sure, if you want to spend your dole money on drugs, go ahead and self medicate, but if you get caught, then face the music like a man and don’t come up with bullshit anti beneficiary arguments and rhetoric to hide your shame.
I call right on lefty bull for the sake of it shit.
You’ve got to watch moralising over small sums of benefit money. It leads to typical Tory style demands to be able to control every aspect of peasants lives, while they themselves splash out on all kinds of shit like royalty.
You get the benefit? Right, no drinking for you. No smoking. No lotto tickets. No buying meals out. Unnutritional soft drinks and snacks? Banned. Maybe you can spend a bit of benefit money on fish and chips – once a month.
At the root of it all is limiting the agency and controlling beneficiary individuality in society.
Etc
“You get the benefit? Right, no drinking for you. No smoking. No lotto tickets. No buying meals out.”
For a few more days, and yes it’s like you describe and not very nice at all.
“Unnutritional soft drinks and snacks? Banned.”
Sadly, nutritional food isn’t cheap and low quality becomes the mainstay of a dole diet. Okay if you have a garden and skills to supplement, but not everybody does.
“Maybe you can spend a bit of benefit money on fish and chips – once a month.”
I’m all for increasing the benefit levels and targeting some of the extra towards good food. No reason why we shouldn’t have good food in our bellies just because we aren’t in work or our kids suffer as a result.
But just like when, if you’re lucky enough or jump through hoops to get an emergency food grant, alcohol and ciggies should remain on the banned list. Providing for them doesn’t reduce anyone’s poverty.
I’d like to see some ‘happy money’ made available to beneficiaries so they can remain part of society and not find themselves detached and isolated, as can easily happen, fish and chips and cinemas yes, but drugs. which remain illegal for in the workplace, no way. That’s just lefties gone mental.
“You’ve got to watch moralising”
Appreciate the advice, but it’s not really moralising, more common sense, especially politically, by those who make political comment.
I’m happy for those who disagree to openly campaign for drugs for dolies and see how they get on.
“but only if you’re paying for it with money that hasn’t been given by the state for the sole purpose of keeping you accommodated and fed.”
citation needed that the benefits are paid for the sole purpose of keeping one accommodated and fed. Unless of course it’s you that believes that, in which case please clarify.
““benies that grow their own” – Are engaging in a criminal act.
Argument and world view – Typical weka twisting. 🙄 just like the monster jibe is typical divert and attack.”
Why not go back and reply to my actual point? You argued that benes taking drugs was wrong because they were spending their benefit on it, therefore it was right that benes should be drug tested. You didn’t say taking drugs was wrong full stop. I said, ok, benes who get free drugs should be exempt by your reasoning, because you believe that the problem with taking drugs is the use of money. If that’s not true, why not come out and say what you really mean?
“citation needed that the benefits are paid for the sole purpose of keeping one accommodated and fed”
You’re as bad as bad at arguing, all twisty turny and pedantic to the nth degree. 🙄
Tell me, and cite all you like if that’s the name of the game, wtf is the purpose of dole, the welfare safety net, if not to house and feed those on it? I’ll wager it’ll say nothing about state funded dope smoking.
“Why not go back and reply to my actual point?”
Despite whether you think it unfair that benes should face some accountability and uphold their end of the deal, I say the same – Who else should msd drug test?
Social Security Act 1964:
Nothing in there about making people live like Spartans, either
Nothing from me that says they should live like ‘spartans’, but worth noting there’s nothing there advocating drugs for dole.
Should you want to change that, contact mana, it’d be your best hope.
Here’s what you said:
“Apart from being illegal, technically I’d agree with you, but only if you’re paying for it with money that hasn’t been given by the state for the sole purpose of keeping you accommodated and fed.”
Maybe it’s miscommunication but you seem to be saying that people on the dole shouldn’t spend their money on things that bring them relief, fun, joy. The benefit is for far more than just keeping people accommodated and fed. Look at your statement and the use of the word ‘sole’. It’s there, and in your other comments are similar statements, and they make me think you believe that benes shouldn’t be spending money on other things than survival.
Further, you have this idea that there is some inherent contract that benes have to live up to. Some benefits do have requirements on them (eg being work ready), but there is no contract in the way you have been implying apart from in the minds of people like you. Who I might add are aligned pretty closely with Paula Bennett’s discriminatory and demeaning reforms. Despite Bennett’s best efforts, there is no contract between a beneficiary and the state that says what they are allowed and not allowed to spend their base benefit on.
You said: “Spending money on drugs isn’t part of the welfare agreement, literal or otherwise.”
I’ve asked you to supply some evidence of this agreement, and instead you’ve just come back with ad hominems. The agreement is something you obviously want, but it’s not actually a real thing. The only thing at issue is the legality of cannabis, and that’s another kete of ika altogether.
You seem incapable of distinguishing between someone who has a smoke on the weekend socially and someone who is out of it all the time using their benefit on weed instead of things like housing and food. Or maybe you simply just disapprove of drugs, alcohol, and tobacco, all things commonly used by many people to make their lives more pleasant or manageable.
btw, calling a benefit a ‘state handout’ also strongly suggests that you really think that benes are second class citizens, rather than the social security system in NZ being about making sure that everyone is ok irrespective of what we might thing about them.
All the above, like I said, puritanical.
“you seem to be saying that people on the dole shouldn’t spend their money on things that bring them relief, fun, joy.”
Nope, just drink, drugs and fags.
“in your other comments are similar statements, and they make me think you believe that benes shouldn’t be spending money on other things than survival.”
You misrepresent me, have not read (or ignored) the bits about discretionary spending, so you have it wrong.
“calling a benefit a ‘state handout’ also strongly suggests that you really think that benes are second class citizens,”
That’ll be you misrepresenting me and allotting me a monster mask, probably because you’re on one for effect like you do from time to time.
How dare he say a bad word about the shitty pot smoker dolies, he must think all dolies are the same. Crud logic, my dear. Fu*k, I thought you were one of the smart ones. Seems you’re just as emotive, self serving and laughable as some of the other munters.
“like I said, puritanical.”
Like I thought, right on for the sake of it lefty.
Pulp’s common people always reminds me of you. 😉
“Nope, just drink, drugs and fags.”
Genuinely curious, why those three?
“calling a benefit a ‘state handout’ also strongly suggests that you really think that benes are second class citizens,”
“That’ll be you misrepresenting me and allotting me a monster mask, probably because you’re on one for effect like you do from time to time.
How dare he say a bad word about the shitty pot smoker dolies, he must think all dolies are the same.”
Actually no. My objection to your statements about dope smoking is that you keep talking about dope smoking benes as if they are all the same. It’s pretty simple, if you’re not talking about all dope smoking benes, just qualify your statements a bit 🙂
Unless you really do think that all benes who smoke dope have something wrong with them? I’m still confused as to why. Originally it was because they were mispending state money, but even the ones who grow their own have something wrong with them, so it’s still not very clear.
Other than that, it’s not your criticism of dope smoking that made me raise my eyebrows at ‘state handout’, it was the many things you have said in this conversation, including the bits about this contract you think benes have, and how the sole point of the benefit is food and shelter.
“one is illegal, one is a huge cause of social problems and domestic violence in NZ, and one kills you, even if it is a slow suicide.”
If you want to make the case for beneficiaries to be paid to drink, smoke and do drugs go ahead – The floor is yours.
“paid to”? You still seem to have this idea that the money paid to benes isn’t really theirs and comes with conditions attached. That’s straight out of Paula Bennett’s philosophy.
For all the huge cost associated with drug testing only handful have tested positive less than 1% tested positive i bet if we tested National MP’S the results would be much Higher sarc!
The Myth that benes are on meth is just a Myth which the right perpetuate for bene bashing!
@ that ben..
it wouldn’t hurt..
lol
that, and the irony of a vegan talking about others being fed a thin gruel.
no ‘thin gruel’ here..
..big jammed vegan-burgers…(avo/hummus..!..drool..!..)
..(the delights of fast-food..but healthy..!!..)
I could have sworn I heard the message ‘all New Zealanders need to be treated fairly’ in that speech.
I would be truly surprised if this wasn’t meant as a positive message for those surviving on thin gruel.
It is certainly how I received it.
It is a far cry from ‘bene on the roof’ type comments and I personally really appreciate the shift in focus from bene bashing to fixing the reasons so many are on welfare in the first place.
I acknowledge, though, there has yet to be anything said to directly address the problems occurring for those currently on welfare (apart from those with children).
Ok, so still some benefit of the doubt.
“The Government I lead will put people first. It will make sure every single person matters. That together we all do well.”
Am tempted to say we’ve heard it all before, but instead how about we agree to hold him to account for that, eh?
Yes, good idea and that may be done by this leopard by voting for a party that is likely to pressure them in such a way.
Have to wait and see what further policies are revealed before I make up my mind on that course of action.
I like a lot of the policies that Labour are rolling out. I like the way they have thought of a wider plan and I do support Cunliffe because of the way he was voted in by so many people in the Labour membership and Unions – however I guess policies are going to end up deciding the day for me.
Placing pressure on the Labour caucus and leadership to ‘do the right thing’ is definitely a good plan. And with strong support and pressure, it actually gives them political ammo to go left.
and benificiaries will have to stick to their thin gruel…
Well, until we’ve managed to strip out the lazy shites who should be working for a living, yes. As long as people get to conflate ‘beneficiary’ with ‘lazy shite’ and have a reasonable number of examples to lend that stereotype a superficial credibility, political parties are going to have be very careful about promising stuff to beneficiaries.
Chicken and egg. Unless you improve the lot of the people cycling through welfare or there permanently, there will always be accusations of bludger.
I would have settled with putting dentistry on the public health – something we still don’t have but desperately need.
Agreed, Populuxe1.
I remember one Saturday (or Sunday) a U.S. medical doctor who had written a book called ‘A short Guide to a Long Life’ being interviewed on RNZ National.
He mentioned a survey of elderly people which had asked them what they would have done differently in terms of their health. Two things easily topped the list: Looked after their feet; Looked after their teeth.
Of course, to look after both you actually have to live far healthier lives – but you also need good health services support.
There is considerable evidence to suggest a link between poor oral health and a number of serious medical conditions
http://www.nidcr.nih.gov/oralhealth/Topics/HeartDisease/
Easy to see the influence of Dr Elizabeth Craig (Clutha Southland candidate) and Dr David Craig in all this hard core public health spending policy. They have been tracking precisely this kind of corollary for nearly a decade now for all our District Health Boards. I could be wrong of course, but this was no lolly scramble. It was policy targeted at not merely alleviating but preventing suffering.
It’s a pretty pathetic indictment that National’s health system are running a scare campaign on Rheumatic Fever with a boy who’s had his heart cut open showing his scar. Grisl, morally screwed and irresponsible scaremongering. Labour is reminding us that media campaigns about preventable diseases emerging from poverty and overcrowding like Rheumatic Fever are evidence of policy failure on behalf of the entire health system and the entire housing system, not one parent’s fault about missing a cough.
Nonetheless free dental care for pregnant women is insufficent and a bit beside th epoint because yu are hardly likely to have major dentalwork with anesthetics undertaken while you are pregnant.
Even merely affordable dental care for all New Zealanders would greatly benefit health and productivity across the board. It’s a no brainer.
Even though Doctors visits for the under 6 age group are free it has made no difference to the number of children with bad health because of transport and prescription charges children are not getting the help they need to be in good health.
That was one of the things I liked about living in Germany – dental was covered by the compulsory medical insurance, so I got as much done as I could before moving back here. Funnily enough, the dentist was an Aussie who’d married a German – took one look in my mouth and said “Jesus, another one with Kiwi dental nurse teeth” ie a mouthful of amalgam. They weren’t shy about using us for practice back in the 60s.
‘In case you missed it – Labour are rolling out well thought out policy’
By Martyn Bradbury / August 8, 2014
…. some news oxygen for Labour’s impressive roll out of policy this week…
Disarmament
Youth Employment policy
Small Business policy
State Services
Health
Water
Arts, Culture and Heritage
ACC
Labour will not sell ACC, we will make compensation fairer for people who are injured before they can start earning, and we’ll reduce levies as we can
http://thedailyblog.co.nz/2014/08/10/votepositive-labour-election-launch-2014-someone-tell-hooton-not-to-order-the-champagne-yet/
‘In case you missed it – Labour are rolling out well thought out policy’
Yeah, but National are rolling out… er… well, there’s… um… Go #TeamKey!
+1 lol
Smile and wave, she’ll be right.
Christchurch… please look the other way
Inequality… not in polite company
GCSB… can neither confirm nor deny anything
Am I overly cynical for suggesting that after we’re now at the point of wanting to prevent young New Zealanders from being the second generation to do worse than their parents? Anyone born from the mid-1970s onwards would have run into the nastiness of user pays and the student loan system.
good point.
40 campaigning days to go and Labour launch their unaffordable bribe fest. Trouble is that the phone is still off the hook 40 days out. A case of premature ejelection. National wait another two weeks and have a Polynesian love-in. Looking good. Really good for three more years.
National are polling ten points behind what they were when they just scraped their only real policy through with the help of an election fraudster.
It looks like they might get thoroughly polled by the electorate next month.
I will be very very surprised if National get over 44% in this coming election. Damn racist card Winston Peters is the best (only) hope of National forming a government now.
Unfortunately that is a strong hope for the bastards.
Nats with 43-44% plus Winston with 5% get them very close to where they need to be.
I think our best hope is Winston sucking up 4.9%. Conservatives sucking up 3% and Goldsmith winning Epsom.
That will leave Key stranded with about 55 MPs
FTFY
The rest of what you wrote has me wondering just WTF you’re smoking – it’s obviously killing your last brain cell.
youre starting to sound a little tired fisiani
worried about your next monthly paycheck & not sleeping properly ?
National supporters looking increasingly impotent each day
national supporters are just so negative.
it must throught of all those unpaid taxes catching up with them.
Interesting stuff from Labour’s leader, of the areas that deeply interest me, those that Do sway my votes, Labour with its ‘Best Start’ program scores highly as in the future this program directly addresses the heart of the child poverty issue,
i do not propose to address at all any negative concerns i have about any of Labour’s policy, the time has long passed where there is any useful point in doing so, the election being upon us and where possible a solid front needs to be presented to the electorate from across the spectrum of the left,
The politics inherent in David Cunliffe’s opening ambit to the ‘official campaign launch’ tho are of interest, it is obvious that the Labour leader has no plans to wake up on the morning after wondering ‘what if’,
The proposal for the free doctors visits for over 65’s may yet hold special meaning for the shape and makeup of the next coalition Government and i should imagine that Winston Peters must be quietly seething at today’s announced policy,
NZFirst, credited in the public polls thus far as either below or just at the required 5% of public support is now in danger of losing votes on three fronts,
1), Being the 2011 tactical voters who are for obvious reasons highly unlikely to entertain voting for NZFirst in 2014,
2), Being Colon and the Colonics, perhaps laughably anal retentives all in need of a Colonostrophy directly targeting the NZFirst vote,
3), Being the ‘new’ Labour policy of free doctors visits for over 65’s, while probably not having a huge effect on the Grey Power set where in their droves there will be a mass exodus from NZFirst to Labour from within this demographic, such a policy has the ability to chisel off from NZFirst a small but hugely significant minor % of their vote,
My belief is that electorally NZFirst was on very shaky ground even befor today’s opening salvo from the Labour leader, the free doctors for over 65’s policy might just be the straw that did unimaginable and unprintable things to the poor old NZFirst camel…
Good thinking, we are in interesting times indeed.
Wouldn’t it be swell to have an election night result that says…
ACT out!
SEYMOUR out!
UF out!
DUNNE out!
NZF out!
PETERS out!
CONS out!
CRAIG out!
MAORI PARTY out!
FLAVEL out!
KEY OUT!
NATIONAL out!
Instead,….
LABOUR in!
GREENS in!
IMP in!
Oops, I better go back to dream. It is 1:20 am!
Great speech!
Good examples of real world life struggles and how lives can be improved with the right policy. Something Key knows nothing of. Labour along with coalition partners will bring a compassionate and socially engaged government, in stark contrast to our current disinterested self serving socially destructive government.
Until Cunliffe came along and the Labour Party in general gave itself a good dose of caffeine I wasn’t sure if I would ever be saying this again, but I can – I am proud to be voting two ticks Labour.
I will also be giving my two ticks to Labour. Although it would be unusual for National to miss out on a third term, you could frame this election as a battle between actual politicians and PR constructs. All of the political leaders on the left are politically educated and engaged, whereas it is safe to say that NONE of the current leaders on the right are. On the right, they are all the front-of-house for whoever is financing them, directing their pitches toward a range of political markets. National of course does have actual politicians among their number, but I am talking about the leadership. Not only do I want to see the left win with Labour under Cunliffe’s leadership, I want to see this experiment in replacing proper politicians with biddable frauds come to an end.
Well said Olwyn.
One can only hope that voters have learnt over the last 6 years that the government they brought in is a cardboard cut out of a government, one with vested interests, and that those interests exclude the common good.
6 Years of our country being run by a PR company has to come to an end, I agree.
Heartening to see that people are getting it after all this time and expressing their understanding of our leader in their hoarding “art”. Two new ones in the wgtn region “working for myself” and “working for my rich mates” plus other assorted “corrections”. Such reworkings of National hoardings wasn’t as prevalent in 2011.
“In moderation”. Sorry Lynn/mods, just messing with ya. I am playing with my handle, as she is a blank field these days…………..
Thanks Rosie/Rosa – I agree re the hoardings. The Nat PR machine has been less successful at dismissing critics this time around. People are finding their voices again.
I did reply to you Olwyn in support of your view but my comment has disappeared, most likely due to my changing my handle/name. I’ve been getting a blank field for my name and email for several weeks and this time is was too tempting to use my usual handle…………