Another day in John Key’s neo-liberal nightmare.
We have become a cruel, greedy, uncaring and selfish nation under his wretched leadership.
It was -2 degrees in Dunedin last night.
It was 3 degrees in Christchurch last night.
Not very warm to be sleeping in a car.
Not very warm to be sleeping in a container.
Not very warm to be sleeping in a garage.
Not very warm to be sleeping on the street.
The mainstream media may think that young millionaire Lamborghini drivers, the Game of Thrones and Samsung selfies are news items, but they are not.
The majority of the media is doing everything they can to support Paula Bennett and move homelessness off the headlines.
“Try walking in my shoes, it’s not actually that easy.”
This was the challenge TA set to Prime Minister John Key. But really it’s a challenge for us all.
Surely John Key’s lack of action on Climate Change is providing a warmer environment for the homeless.
I can hear the cries of anguish now “but stabilising global warming hasn’t helped the homeless!” Followed by a another ‘another day in John Key’s neo-liberal nightmare’ post.
Hope for Britain’s sake they’re not sending Groser and the crew who signed the TPP!
New Zealand offers UK its top trade negotiators for post-Brexit deals
New Zealand has offered its top trade negotiators to the United Kingdom, relieving the British civil service as it prepares for the strain of seeking new deals with countries across the globe.
The Telegraph understands that the Commonwealth country has made an offer to loan staff to the British civil service, which has few trade negotiators of its own.
Interesting times, Boris and Gove played with matches and ended up burning their cosy clubhouse down that they were throwing rocks at their own party from.
Now they along with Farage have to deliver on their BS spin in a climate where many are pretty pissed with their antics.
Old Nigel may find it all a bit much once the national front types realise they got played and to quote the guardian as Boris has withdrawn already ‘ a man who will not clean up his own mess’.
Boris Johnson’s allies warned there is a “deep pit in Hell” waiting for Michael Gove after the Justice Secretary stabbed his fellow Brexit champion in the back saying he was not up to being Prime Minister.
Meanwhile, it looks like the coup in the Labour Party is hitting some road bumps.
Labour MPs divided over how to depose Jeremy Corbyn
Angela Eagle has delayed an expected leadership challenge to Jeremy Corbyn for at least 24 hours as Labour MPs who wish to depose Labour’s leader remain divided over how best to mount a challenge.
The former shadow business secretary was expected to declare that she was going to run as a “unity candidate” at a 3pm press conference.
However, her associates claim she has decided to hold off because of the turmoil engulfing the Conservatives and to give more time for Labour MPs to pressurise Corbyn in to handing in his resignation.
Her decision to stand was also delayed when the former shadow welfare secretary Owen Smith collected enough nominations to put his name forward, following concerns that Eagle may not be able to win over the party in a ballot of members.
“Hope for Britain’s sake they’re not sending Groser and the crew who signed the TPP!”
If it is Goser he will have drunk all the wine, before he manages to get there…
If it is Key, he will have a great time on the golf course, do whatever the US and UK want and expand his personal wealth, networking and connections. He might stop in at Buckingham palace to say Labour made him do it (referendum to change the flag), no offence, Ma’am. Lets face it, Key is out of his depth in any way apart from financial Tory wizardry, (somehow managing to increase our debt to eyewatering proportions while having nothing to show for it and have people living in tents).
Let’s hope for the farmers and our economy the delegate is Winston Peters. For the good of our country and relationship lets hope it is Winson Peters. National may not like him, but he is clearly the man for the job to get the best deal and the best relationship!
Why, as a society, are we so cruel, heartless,callous and uncaring towards women doing the most important job?
Surely folk who reckon they are having children so they can live the high life on the state, have gone the same way as the trickle-downers, climate change deniers.
As is said in the clip, there seems to be sexism in play.
‘Benefit cheat/fraud’ implies wrong and theft.
Tax avoidance/evasion implies clever.
The former is punished severely often with incarceration.
The latter gets high powered men writing laws to protect them.
I caught something on the radio yesty- figures from UK suggest that the under payment of benefits/denial of entitlements dwarfs the fraud numbers.
Thanks Paul. That is a great episode. I saw it mid way through and it was unbelievable! When thedailyblog gets back up, worth watching.
It is shocking!
6 months of prison for a women with young children (who has had her infant murdered by a previous partner) for benefit fraud based on the violent and dysfunctional testimony of the ‘partner’ who gets away scott free by the sound of it.
For those neoliberals out there who thinks society runs to a budget, we just spent over $100,000 on legal fees and prison fees and f&^ked up more kids by taking their mother away and got $1600 back she does not seem to even owe.
If we take the ‘bankruptcy’ laws that say you can write off you debt because it means you will be more productive and can recover your life, you have to ask, how can someone recover their life and get off a benefit, get a job with a criminal conviction and hundreds of thousands in debt? More double standards against women and children.
No wonder we have the highest abuse rates in the world! It starts with blatant discrimination of vulnerable women by government officials and our legal system.
Excellent points. IRD can and does write off debt for hardship other than core Child Support debt, and are actually reasonably proactive about it. Would be nice for other government departments (MSD…) to do the same.
Frontrunner Boris Johnson stuns Westminster by pulling out of Tory Leadership Race
Comes in the immediate wake of a whole swathe of Tory MP defections from Camp Boris and a series of newly-released Polls showing him trailing Theresa May among Tory voters, voters in general and the Party’s membership.
The latest YouGov says it all.
Compared to the February Poll of Tory Party members, Boris’s negativity ratings have increased substantially.
There’s a kind of Tortoise and Hare scenario.
Boris leads the Brexit campaign in his usual loud and colourful way / May (considered mildly Eurosceptic by many) takes a very low profile role in the Remain campaign (some might say, not entirely unlike Corbyn).
As a consequence, Boris has his credibility destroyed among the large minority of Tory members who were pro-Remain, whilst May manages to maintain enormous cross-over appeal to both sides of the Conservative Membership.
YouGov
27-29 June 2016
Tory Party Members
Positive or Negative View of Potential Leader
………………………………………Boris Johnson………………………Theresa May Feb 2016…………………Pos 76% / Neg 14%…………….Pos 68% / Neg 11% June 2016……………….Pos 58% / Neg 30%…………….Pos 72% / Neg 13%
Boris’s support comes almost entirely (92%) from Tory members who voted Leave, whereas May’s support derives almost as much from Leavers (44%) as Remainers (56%).
In the one-on-one match-ups, Boris beats all possible contenders except May. She wins easily by 55% to 38%.
Swordfish. You ARE the news. Thanks for this comment and all the previous ones providing information previously unseen by these eyes and casting light on angles I hadn’t considered.
Nothing about the sociopolitical context that led to Brexit. The perspective on racism adds something. More angst about the middle classes losing privilege under neoliberalism not so much.
While we’re worried about little old Britain having a little old leadership change, spare a thought for Saudi Arabia. The last stable Muslim nation between Pakistan and Nigeria. A two minute clip from Bloomberg:
Saudis are confronting a future of cheaper oil, in a country where oil is everything. Can Saudi Arabia wean itselfoff the proceeds of oil?
Its plan is to sell 5% of Aramco with the biggest listing of all time, and get that to help form a sovereign wealth fund worth up to US $2 trillion. That’s enough to buy Apple, Microsoft, Google (Alphabet), Exxon Mobil, and still have plenty of change.
There’s the resistant clerics.
There’s 80% vof the workforce being foreign.
There’s nearly half of the population under 25, and they make up 30% of the unemployed.
There’s no friends and no stability on any border.
There’s the inability to keep generations of patrimony going.
There’s patriarchal suppression of pretty much everything, and massive clerical resistance to change of pretty much anything.
In terms of the future stability of the Middle East, unlike the US invading multiple times, they have a plan.
But it’s the biggest roll of the dice we will see in our generation.
Could I run something past you please, I’m interested in your comments.
I get the Supported Living Payment for uncontrolled epilepsy.
In the last few years dealing with WINZ has become so stressful it’s become a seizure trigger for me and I can directly link 3 WINZ run-ins with emergency hospital admissions. (Been dealing with them since the late 1980s and this has never been an issue till 6 years ago, note the timing).
I recently had to voluntarily surrender the remaining $5/week Special benefit because of how crazy the 3 monthly reviews have become and because it’s too medically dangerous for me to go near a WINZ office.
There’s a contraceptive pill that prevents hormone-induced seizures for me.
But the only one that actually works (they are not created equal) is the only one that’s not funded, and it costs about $5/week, or $250/year. That’s a lot out of a benefit, I can get 3-4 meals out of that.
I did try the funded version but it made no difference.
I recently stopped said pill mostly because that $5 was starting to become difficult. (I also pay full price for another drug, that was funded when I started it but then funding changed to a generic and I could never make the switch so it’s pay for the brand or nothing. That happens frequently in NZ).
Not being on the pill caused some serious seizure problems that landed me in A&E for the day, only just avoiding being admitted.
Last time I heard- quite a few years ago- just an admission to A&E was $300 so I hate to think was that is now, but even if it was $500, well that’s 2 years worth of that pill cost gone in just a few hours on an avoidable admission.
My GP went into battle with the Health Ministry about funding for the pill because of it’s use as a medical drug, but no success.
There was never any help from WINZ at the time (every excuse under the sun) plus I had to give up with them for the sake of my health anyway.
That’s the saga, I’m not after sympathy or anything, or even whining about lack of money, but what I cannot for the life of me figure out, is DO THESE BLOODY IDEALOGUES WHO ARE SO HELL BENT ON DESTROYING THE WELFARE SYSTEM EVEN KNOW (OR CARE) ABOUT SIMPLE COST/BENEFIT ANALYSIS?????
Surely, even to those Nat voters who despise people like me simply for existing, (apologies, “beneficiary” wasn’t on my career plan when I started Uni) why is it so hard to comprehend that a few dollars for to help with medications and not putting us in the eat/heat/treat situation, is actually a hell of a lot cheaper than the avoidable cost to the public health system? Or because it’s not the welfare budget don’t you mind your hard working taxes being spent on us that way?
My scenario is just a small one, but it’s common. Taken to the extreme people die.
@Kay, no the neoliberal dumbos do not even follow their own ideology in which case they would have an efficient system!! What a terrible story and way to be treated. It is not even about saving money, it is about a punishing regime, that makes no sense. In fact they are wasting massive amounts of money. It’s crazy.
We can all only hope we can get a change of government for a more humane and less Kafkaesque way to treat our fellow citizens.
Kay, I don’t know how to answer your question except to say “what save nz said”.
I feel very frustrated after hearing your story and knowing it’s amplified by thousands of unwell people around NZ. I have no idea what it does to a persons outlook and self esteem over time, being treated like you’re a nuisance getting in their way, being belittled first by those that are meant to help and then by stupid unkind people.
Geez, my only experience with WINZ is as an agent for my mother and advocating on her behalf for her disability allowance and secondly applying for her residential care subsidy. In that very short amount of time, winz have literally made me pull out my hair with their patronising way they speak to me, their failure to get the basic things done and their total and absolute indifference to my mothers situation and her vulnerability.
So, I don’t know who long term winz “clients” cope with the effort required just to get what you need and still be able retain self belief and hold their head up high.
Lastly, your scenario isn’t a “small one”. It’s a life changing, life effecting one. I hope you have good support from some quarters.
I guess the only thing that can change in your favour is a change to the government and a commitment from a new government to fully review the culture at winz and implement necessary change.
“So, I don’t know who long term winz “clients” cope with the effort required just to get what you need and still be able retain self belief and hold their head up high.”
In a nutshell, a lot of us no longer do. It’s a fight for $5 in my case and a fight not worth my physical- and mental- health. I personally know others, and there’s plenty of anecdotal reports around of people who have been forced to make the hard decisions about what medical treatments they can continue with. I’ve had to abandon necessary physio treatment for injuries from seizures because the ACC surcharge is just too much. (I can’t remember which Govt got rid of the full physio subsidy but that was disasterous for many on low/fixed incomes).
It would be really interesting to find out just how many hospital admissions involving people with chronic health problems can be directly linked to financial problems. We hear from time to time about low income families not picking up antibiotic prescriptions because they can’t afford the charges and the child subsequently ending up in hospital. I’ll bet anything that every every hospital doctor in the country has stories. But not officially, of course. That would be way too embarrassing for the Minister so a formal enquirey, or even survey will never happen.
Frustration is the word, but what to do? Even the Greens no longer speak out for us (supporting beneficiaries is just too politically toxic I guess) so there’s no one at all in the political establishment. When you’re trying to reason with the RWNJs and post on forums, write to MPs or whatever it is you do, can you point out just how much the welfare policies they’re embracing are costing the health system? Maybe it might sink in to the odd one…
(ps. I’ve exercised personal responsibility- shock. horror, us bludgers actually have that trait- and restarted that pill. More creative budgeting but I can put together a better budget than Bill ever could. Aside from not wanting to waste precious public hospital resources, if it’s possible to stop a few tonic clonic seizures every month well that’s a no brainer. They’re really not fun.)
Your response needs a more considered reply then I can give as I’m restrained by time I’m sorry. Hopefully we can talk again another time son.
I just want to respond to this:
” I’ve had to abandon necessary physio treatment for injuries from seizures because the ACC surcharge is just too much. (I can’t remember which Govt got rid of the full physio subsidy but that was disasterous for many on low/fixed incomes).”
This was the new National coalition government that removed the full subsidy from our ACC physio appointments. I think it came into effect in 2009. I have also had to abandon much needed physio for injuries in the last 7 years, which makes me angry and hinders my mobility.
I wrote awhile ago to then ACC opposition spokesperson, Iain Lees Galloway and Kevin Hague, ACC spokesperson from the Greens about restoring the subsidy to all physio’s should we get a Labour Green coalition in government. This was back in 2014. Mr Galloway, said in a very nice way, no. Kevin Hague never replied.
“It would be really interesting to find out just how many hospital admissions involving people with chronic health problems can be directly linked to financial problems”.
I reckon it would be high. Higher than in previous decades.
My brother lives with epilepsy. He had a serious tonic clonic seizure a few years ago, the worst in his life. He was lucky not to die from his injuries and was left exhausted and off work for months. Drivers license suspended etc. He has money though, private insurance etc so got through without having to worry about that side of things.
It is morally unacceptable that you to live with your illness, with only grudging support at best, from your government, and without the means to easily purchase the appropriate medication.
Hi joe90, I can’t believe how cavalierly and quickly you dismissed the opinions of a well known LGBT activist like Jenner based on anonymous allegations. Shame on you.
What do you have to say about Hillary enabling – or at least turning a blind eye to – Bill sexually assaulting many women and coercing other women for sexual favours over his political career?
so a few allegations against bill (mostly of having consensual affairs, but whatever).
One claim that hillary knew of one incident. So hardly “enabling – or at least turning a blind eye to – Bill sexually assaulting many women and coercing other women for sexual favours”.
Caitlyn Jenner is not an LGBT activist; she’s a self-aggrandising person interested in her own publicity and wealth. With that considered, it is obvious why she likes Trump.
Her publicity work includes of advocating for people who directly oppose rights for LGBT people and this makes things directly worse for LGBT people in the USA, in particular trans people. Activist? Fuck no.
This is just another reason why I have a soft spot for the SNP.
You may have heard by now D.Trumpf is now going around the world begging for campaign finances, lets put aside that is illegal. Lets also put aside he knows it’s illegal.
Lets just embrace a MP who is a fine example of a human being.
NATALIE McGARRY you are a wonderfully honest individual. My hope is the system won’t grind you down. Hugs and bikkies from the south pacific.
For the best bit, scroll down to her email response. It is just wonderful.
Just a wee reminder of how much money the Clinton Foundation received from foreigners looking for favours from Hillary during her term as Secretary of State (I posted this in OM a day or two ago):
From a Clinton Foundation document revealed by a hacker. (Please forgive the caps, they were in the article).
Here are some of the section titles:
*THE CLINTON FOUNDATION RECEIVED DONATIONS FROM INDIVIDUALS TIED TO SAUDI ARABIA WHILE CLINTON SERVED AS SECRETARY OF STATE
*AN EMBATTLED BUSINESSMAN WITH “TIES TO BAHRAIN’S STATE-OWNED ALUMINUM COMPANY” GAVE BETWEEN $1 MILLION AND $5 MILLION TO THE CLINTON FOUNDATION
*A VENEZUELAN MEDIA MOGUL WHO WAS ACTIVE IN VENEZUELAN POLITICS DONATED TO THE CLINTON FOUNDATION DURING CLINTON’S TENURE AS SECRETARY OF STATE
*GERMAN INVESTOR WHO HAS LOBBIED CHANCELLOR MERKEL’S ADMINISTRATION GAVE BETWEEN $1 MILLION AND $5 MILLION TO THE CLINTON FOUNDATION, SOME OF WHICH WAS DURING MRS. CLINTON’S TENURE AT THE STATE DEPARTMENT
*THE CEO OF AN AMSTERDAM BASED ENERGY COMPANY DONATED AT LEAST $1 MILLION TO THE CLINTON FOUNDATION AND LATER ANNOUNCED AT THE 2009 CGI MEETING A $5 BILLION PROJECT TO DEVELOP ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY POWER GENERATION IN INDIA AND CHINA
*INDIAN POLITICIAN AMAR SINGH, WHO HAD DONATED AT LEAST $1 MILLION TO THE CLINTON FOUNDATION, MET WITH HILLARY CLINTON IN SEPTEMBER 2008 TO DISCUSS AN INDIA-U.S. CIVIL NUCLEAR AGREEMENT
*THE CLINTON FOUNDATION RECEIVED ADDITIONAL DONATIONS FROM INDIAN BUSINESS INTERESTS PRIOR TO HER BECOMING SECRETARY OF STATE
*BILLIONAIRE STEEL EXECUTIVE AND MEMBER OF THE FOREIGN INVESTMENT COUNCIL IN KAZAKHSTAN LAKSHMI MITTAL GAVE $1 MILLION TO $5 MILLION TO THE CLINTON FOUNDATION BEFORE CLINTON BECAME SECRETARY OF STATE
*SOON AFTER SECRETARY CLINTON LEFT THE STATE DEPARTMENT, THE CLINTON
FOUNDATION “RECEIVED A LARGE DONATION FROM A CONGLOMERATE RUN BY A MEMBER OF CHINA’S NATIONAL PEOPLE’S CONGRESS”
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Kia ora. Long stories short, here’s my top six things to note in Aotearoa’s political economy around housing, climate and poverty on Wednesday, October 9:The Government has cut $6 million from subsidies for an Auckland social housing provider with three days notice, which will force it to leave houses empty ...
Once I could laugh with everyoneOnce I could see the good in meThe black and the white distinctivelyColouringHolding the world insideNow, all the world is grey to meNobody can seeYou gotta believe it!Songwriter: Brian MayMartyn Bradbury, aka Bomber, a workingman’s flat cap and a beard ripe for socialism. Love him ...
I know it may seem an odd and obvious thing to break a year's worth of radio silence over, but how come the British Conservative Party MPs (and to be fair, the Labour Labour Party, when they have their leadership shenanigans) get to use a different and better way electoral ...
HealthNZ yesterday “dropped” 454 pages of documents relating to its financial performance over the last 18 months. The documents confirm that it has a massive structural deficit, which, without savings, is expected to be $1.4 billion annually beyond the current financial year. But the papers also suggest that Health NZ ...
Hi,It’s been awhile since we’ve done an AMA on Webworm — so let’s do it. Over the next 48 hours, I’ll be milling around in the comments answering any questions you might have. Leave a commentI genuinely look forward to these things as I love the Webworm community so much ...
This is a re-post from the Climate BrinkMuch of my immediate family lives in Asheville and Black Mountain, NC. While everyone is thankfully safe, this disaster struck much closer to home for me than most. There is lots that needs to be done for disaster relief, and I’d encourage folks ...
The past couple of days, an online furore has blown up regarding commentator/scholar Corey Olsen and his claim that there is no Tolkienian canon. The sort of people who delight in getting outraged over such things have been piling onto Olsen, and often doing it in a matter that is ...
Perhaps when the archaeologists come picking their way through the ruins of a civilisation that was so fond of its fossil fuel comforts it wasn't prepared to give up any of them, they will find these two artefacts. Read more ...
Here in Aotearoa, our right-wing, ATLAS-network-backed government is rolling back climate policy and plotting to raise emissions to allow the fossil fuel industry a few more years of profit. And in Canada, their right-wing, ATLAS-network-backed opposition is campaigning on doing the same thing: Mass hunger and malnutrition. A looming ...
UPDATED:August 2024The New Zealand Council of Trade Unions Te Kauae Kaimahi (NZCTU) notes with extreme concern the ongoing genocide in Gaza, as well as the continued encroachment of illegal Israeli settlements in Palestinian territories. The NZCTU is extremely concerned that there is increasing risk of a broader regional ...
I’m just a bottom feederScum of the earthAnd I’m cursedWith the burden of empathyMy fellow humans matter to meBottom Feeder - Written, Performed and Recorded by Tane Cotton.Bottom Feeder or Fluffernutter, which one are you? Or, more to the point, which do you identify as? It’s not simply a measure ...
Corrections Minister Mark Mitchell says he anticipates an increase in people “coming into the Corrections system”. The Corrections Department has applied for fast tracking so it will be able to add more beds at Mt Eden Prison when needed. Photo: Getty ImagesKia ora. Long stories short, here’s my top six ...
Remember when a guy walked into a mosque and shot everyone inside? He killed 44 people. And he then drove to a second mosque and shot and killed 7 more. He was on his way to a third mosque in Ashburton when he was stopped and arrested by the New ...
This is a re-post from the Climate Brink by Andrew Dessler On Bluesky, it was pointed out that Asheville, NC was recently listed as a place to go to avoid the climate crisis. link Mother Nature sent a “letter to the editor” indicating that she didn’t agree: ...
On the weekend, Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop admitted that not everyone will “like” his fast track wish-list, before adding: “We are a government that does not shy away from those tough decisions.” Hmm. IMO, there’s nothing “tough” about a government using its numbers in Parliament to bulldoze aside the public’s ...
First they came for Newshub, and I said nothing because I didn’t watch TV3. Then they came for One News, and I said nothing because I didn’t pay much attention to them either. Then they came for me, and there was no one left to speak out because all the ...
Something I especially like about you all, you loyal and much-appreciated readers of More Than A Feilding, is that you are so very widely experienced and knowledgeable. Not just saying that. You really are.So I'm mindful as I write today that at least one of you has been captain of an ...
On Friday, Luxon and Reti were at Ormiston Private Hospital to talk up the benefits of private money in public health. [And defend Casey Costello - that’s a given for now by our National Party Ministers - including the medical doctor Shane Reti.]Luxon and Reti said we were going to ...
Hi,If you are unfortunate like me, you will have seen this image over the weekend.Donald Trump returned to the site of his near-assassination in Butler, Pennsylvania — except this time he brought Elon Musk with him. It’s difficult to keep up with Trump’s brain, but he seems to have dropped ...
Last week finally saw the first major release of detailed data from last year’s Census. There are a huge number of stories to be told from this data. Over the next few weeks we’ll be illuminating a few of them – starting today with an initial look at how New ...
The Government finance hand brake that stalled construction momentum in early 2024 remains firmly on. 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 Monday, October 7:Infrastructure and Housing Minister Chris Bishop ...
Change is coming to America. Next month’s elections are likely to pave the way for an overhaul of US foreign policy– regardless of whether Donald Trump or Kamala Harris wins the presidency. Decisions made in Washington will also have a direct impact on Wellington. While the Biden administration started its ...
Those business leaders who were calling last week for some indication of an economic plan from the Government got their answer yesterday. In what amounted to the first substantial pointer to the future rather than the past from a Government Minister, Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop set out the reasons for ...
A listing of 30 news and opinion articles we found interesting and shared on social media during the past week: Sun, September 29, 2024 thru Sat, October 5, 2024. Story of the week We're all made of standard human fabric so it's nobody's particular fault but while "other" parts of the world ...
The National Government has sneakily reneged on protecting the Hauraki Gulf, reducing the protected area of the marine park and inviting commercial fishing in the depleted seascape. ...
Labour welcomes the release of the Government’s response to the report into the North Island weather events but urges it to push forward with legislative change this term. ...
The Green Party echoes a call for banks to divest from entities linked to Israel’s illegal settlements in Palestine, and says Crown Financial Institutions should follow suit. ...
Te Whatu Ora’s finances have deteriorated under the National Government, turning a surplus into a deficit, and breaking promises made to New Zealanders to pay for it. ...
The Prime Minister’s decision to back his firearms minister on gun law changes despite multiple warnings shows his political judgement has failed him yet again. ...
Yesterday the government announced the list of 149 projects selected for fast-tracking across Aotearoa. Trans-Tasman Resources’ plan to mine the seabed off the coast of Taranaki was one of these projects. “We are disgusted but not surprised with the government’s decision to fast-track the decimation of our seabed,” said Te ...
At Labour’s insistence, Te Whatu Ora financial documents have been released by the Health Select Committee today showing more cuts are on the way for our health system. ...
Fresh questions have been raised about the conduct of the Firearms Minister after revelations she misled New Zealanders about her role in stopping gun reforms prior to the mosque shootings. ...
Education Minister Erica Stanford still can’t confirm when the Government will deliver the $2 billion worth school upgrades she cut earlier this year. ...
Labour acknowledges the hundreds of workers today losing their jobs as the Winstone Pulp mill closes and what it will mean for their families and community. ...
In Budget '24, the National Government put aside $216 million to pay for a tax cut which mainly benefitted one company: global tobacco giant Philip Morris. Instead of giving hundreds of millions to big tobacco, National could have spent the money sensibly, on New Zealand. ...
Te Whatu Ora’s financials from the last year show the Government has manufactured a financial crisis to justify making cuts that are already affecting patient care. ...
Over 41,000 Palestinian’s have been murdered by Israel in the last 12 months. At the same time, Israel have launched attacks against at least four other countries in the Middle East including Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Iran. “You cannot play the aggressor and the victim at the same time,” said ...
Associate health minister Casey Costello has made a fool of the Prime Minister, because the product she’s been fighting to get a tax cut for and he’s been backing her on is now illegal – and he doesn’t seem to know it. ...
The Finance and Expenditure Committee’s inquiry into climate adaptation is something that must be built on for an enduring framework to manage climate risk. ...
The Government is taking tertiary education down a worrying path with new reporting finding that fourteen of the country’s sixteen polytechnics couldn’t survive on their own,” Labour’s tertiary education spokesperson Dr Deborah Russell says. ...
Today the government announced a $30m cut to Te Ahu o Te Reo Māori- a programme that develops te reo Māori among our kaiako. “This announcement is just the latest in an onslaught of attacks on te iwi Māori,” said Te Pāti Māori Co-Leader Rawiri Waititi. ...
The Government has shown its true intentions for the public service and economy – it’s not to get more public servants back to the office, it’s more job losses. ...
The National Government is hiding the gaps in the health workforce from New Zealanders, by not producing a full workforce plan nearly a year into their tenure. ...
Today, the Crown Mineral Amendment Bill was read for the first time, reversing the ban on oil exploration off the coast of Taranaki. It was no accident that this proposed law change was read directly after the Government started to unravel the ability of iwi and hapū Māori to have ...
Te Pāti Māori spokesperson for Justice, Tākuta Ferris, has hit out at the Government, demanding the Crown prove its rights to the foreshore, following the Marine and Coastal Area Amendment Bill, passing its first reading. "Māori rights to the foreshore pre-exist the Declaration of Independence, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and ...
The one-stop-shop Fast-track Approvals Bill, and the 149 projects listed in the Bill, will help rebuild our struggling economy and kick-start economic growth across the country, Minister for Infrastructure Chris Bishop says. “Since 2022, New Zealand has battled anaemic levels of economic growth. If we want Kiwi kids to stop ...
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon today announced the appointment of Sir Brian Roche as the next Public Service Commissioner. “I am delighted to appoint Sir Brian to this crucial leadership position,” Mr Luxon says. “Sir Brian is a highly respected New Zealander who has held significant roles across the public and ...
Forestry Minister Todd McClay today announced the establishment of a Forestry Sector Reference Group to drive better outcomes from the Forestry Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) Registry. “We are committed to working with the forestry sector to provide greater transparency and engagement on the forestry ETS registry as we work to ...
New Zealand’s fuel resilience is being strengthened to ensure people and goods keep moving and connected to the world in case of disruptions, Associate Energy Minister Shane Jones says. “Fuel security is a priority for the Coalition Government. We are acutely aware of how important engine fuels are to our ...
The Government will reform New Zealand’s Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) system to provide significant regulatory relief for businesses, Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee says. “Cabinet has approved an AML/CFT reform work programme which will ensure streamlined, workable, and effective regulations for businesses, law enforcement, and ...
Significant reforms are underway in the building and construction portfolio to help enable 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 construction sector that ...
Minister Responsible for the GCSB and Minister of Defence Judith Collins will travel to Singapore and Brussels for Singapore International Cyber Week and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Defence Ministers’ Meeting. New Zealand has been invited to attend the NATO meeting alongside representatives from the European Union and the ...
Toitū ngā pōito o te kupenga a Toitehuatahi! A Government commitment to restoring the health and mauri of the Hauraki Gulf/Tīkapa Moana will enhance the area for generations to come, Minister of Conservation Tama Potaka says. Cabinet recently agreed to pass the Hauraki Gulf/Tīkapa Moana Marine Protection Bill into law, ...
Associate Finance Minister David Seymour says the Government has committed to action on overseas investment, where the country’s policy settings are the worst in the developed world and holding back wage growth. “Cabinet has agreed to the principles for reforming our overseas investment law. At the core of these principles ...
The annual East Asia Summit (EAS) held in Laos this week underscored the critical role that the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) plays in ensuring a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon says. "My first participation in an EAS has been a valuable opportunity to engage ...
Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden says the feedback from the health and safety roadshow will help shape the future of health and safety in New Zealand and grow the economy. “New Zealand’s poorly performing health and safety system could be costing this country billions,” says Ms van ...
The Government has released the independent Advisory Group’s report on the 384 projects which applied to be listed in the Fast-track Approvals Bill, and further detail about the careful management of Ministers’ conflicts of interest, Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop says. Independent Advisory Group Report The full report has now been ...
The Government Policy Statement (GPS) on electricity clearly sets out the Government’s role in delivering affordable and secure electricity at internationally competitive prices, Energy Minister Simeon Brown says.“New Zealand’s economic growth and prosperity relies on Kiwi households and businesses having access to affordable and secure electricity at internationally competitive prices. ...
The Government has broadly accepted the findings of the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care whilst continuing to consider and respond to its recommendations. “It is clear the Crown utterly failed thousands of brave New Zealanders. As a society and as the State we should have done better. ...
The brakes have been put on contractor and consultant spending and growth in the public service workforce, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says. “Workforce data released today shows spending on contractors and consultants fell by $274 million, or 13 per cent, across the public sector in the year to June 30. ...
The Crown accounts for the 2023/24 year underscore the need for the Government’s ongoing efforts to restore discipline to public spending, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says. The Financial Statements of the Government for the year ended 30 June 2024 were released today. They show net core Crown net debt at ...
Climate Change Minister Simon Watts will chair negotiations on carbon markets at this year’s United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) alongside Singapore’s Minister for Sustainability and Environment, Grace Fu. “Climate change is a global challenge, and it’s important for countries to be enabled to work together and support each other ...
A new confirmation of payments system in the banking sector will make it safer for Kiwis making bank transactions, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly says. “In my open letter to the banks in February, I outlined several of my expectations of the sector, including the introduction of a ...
Associate Health Minister with responsibility for Pharmac David Seymour is pleased to see Pharmac continue to increase availability of medicines for Kiwis with the Government’s largest ever investment in Pharmac. “Pharmac operates independently, but it must work within the budget constraints set by the Government,” says Mr Seymour. “When our ...
The Government has released its long-term vision to strengthen New Zealand’s disaster resilience and emergency management, Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell announced today. “It’s clear from the North Island Severe Weather Events (NISWE) Inquiry, that our emergency management system was not fit-for-purpose,” Mr Mitchell says. “We’ve seen first-hand ...
Today’s cut in the Official Cash Rate (OCR) to 4.75 per cent is welcome news for families and businesses, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says. “Lower interest rates will provide much-needed relief for households and businesses, allowing families to keep more of their hard-earned money and increasing the opportunities for businesses ...
Sport & Recreation Minister Chris Bishop has asked Sport NZ to review and update its Guiding Principles for the Inclusion of Transgender People in Community Sport. “The Guiding Principles, published in 2022, were intended to be a helpful guide for sporting bodies grappling with a tricky issue. They are intended ...
The Coalition Government is restoring confidence to the rural sector by pausing the rollout of freshwater farm plans while changes are made to ensure the system is affordable and more practical for farmers and growers, Associate Environment Minister Andrew Hoggard and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay announced today. “Freshwater farm plans ...
The latest report from the Ministry for the Environment (MfE) and Stats NZ, Our air 2024, reveals that overall air quality in New Zealand is improving, Environment Minister Penny Simmonds and Statistics Minister Andrew Bayly say. “Air pollution levels have decreased in many parts of the country. New Zealand is ...
Climate Change Minister Simon Watts has announced the appointment of Stuart Horne as New Zealand’s Climate Change Ambassador. “I am pleased to welcome someone of Stuart’s calibre to this important role, given his expertise in foreign policy, trade, and economics, along with strong business connections,” Mr Watts says. “Stuart’s understanding ...
Health Minister Dr Shane Reti and Associate Health Minister Casey Costello have announced a pilot to increase childhood immunisations, by training the Whānau Āwhina Plunket workforce as vaccinators in locations where vaccine coverage is particularly low. The Government is investing up to $1 million for Health New Zealand to partner ...
The Government is looking at strengthening requirements for building professionals, including penalties, to ensure Kiwis have confidence in their biggest asset, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says “The Government is taking decisive action to make building easier and more affordable. If we want to tackle our chronic undersupply of houses ...
The Government is taking further action to tackle the unacceptable wait times facing people trying to sit their driver licence test by temporarily extending the amount of time people can drive on overseas licences from 12 months to 18 months, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “The previous government removed fees for ...
The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring New Zealand is a safe and secure place to do business with the launch of new cyber security resources, Small Business and Manufacturing Minister Andrew Bayly says. “Cyber security is crucial for businesses, but it’s often discounted for more immediate business concerns. ...
Investment in Apprenticeship Boost will prioritise critical industries and targeted occupations that are essential to addressing New Zealand’s skills shortages and rebuilding the economy, Tertiary Education and Skills Minister Penny Simmonds and Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston say. “By focusing Apprenticeship Boost on first-year apprentices in targeted occupations, ...
Health Minister Dr Shane Reti has announced a funding boost for Palmerston North ED to reduce wait times and improve patient safety and care, as well as new national standards for moving acute patients through hospitals. “Wait times in emergency departments have deteriorated over the past six years and Palmerston ...
Health Minister Dr Shane Reti has announced a funding boost for Palmerston North ED to reduce wait times and improve patient safety and care, as well as new national standards for moving acute patients through hospitals. “Wait times in emergency departments have deteriorated over the past six years and Palmerston ...
Mehemea he pai mō te tangata, mahia! If it’s good for the people, get on with it! A $35 million Government investment will enable the delivery of 100 affordable rental homes in partnership with Waikato-Tainui, Associate Minister of Housing Tama Potaka says. Investment for the partnership, signed and announced today ...
This week’s inaugural Ethnic Xchange Symposium will explore the role that ethnic communities and businesses can play in rebuilding New Zealand’s economy, Ethnic Communities Minister Melissa Lee says. “One of my top priorities as Minister is unlocking the economic potential of New Zealand’s ethnic businesses,” says Ms Lee. “Ethnic communities ...
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Winston Peters are renewing New Zealand’s calls for restraint and de-escalation, on the first anniversary of the 7 October terrorist attacks on Israel. “New Zealand was horrified by the monstrous actions of Hamas against Israel a year ago today,” Mr Luxon says. ...
Kia uru kahikatea te tū. Projects referred for Fast-Track approval will help supercharge the Māori economy and realise the huge potential of Iwi and Māori assets, Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka says. Following robust and independent review, the Government has today announced 149 projects that have significant regional or national ...
The Fast-track Approvals Bill will list 22 renewable electricity projects with a combined capacity of 3 Gigawatts, which will help secure a clean, reliable and affordable supply of electricity across New Zealand, Energy Minister Simeon Brown says. “The Government has a goal of doubling New Zealand’s renewable electricity generation. The 22 ...
The Government has enabled fast-track consenting for 29 critical road, rail, and port projects across New Zealand to deliver these priority projects faster and boost economic growth, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “New Zealand has an infrastructure deficit, and our Government is working to fix it. Delivering the transport infrastructure Kiwis ...
The 149 projects released today for inclusion in the Government’s one-stop-shop Fast Track Approvals Bill will help rebuild the economy and fix our housing crisis, improve energy security, and address our infrastructure deficit, Minister for Infrastructure Chris Bishop says. “The 149 projects selected by the Government have significant regional or ...
A new multi-purpose recreation centre will provide a valuable wellbeing hub for residents and visitors to Ruakākā in Northland, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says. The Ruakākā Recreation Centre, officially opened today, includes separate areas for a gymnasium, a community health space and meeting rooms made possible with support of ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lizzy Lowe, Vice Chancellor’s Research Fellow in Ecology and Entomology, Edith Cowan University If you notice a tiny, strikingly coloured spider performing an elaborate courtship dance, you may have seen your first peacock spider. New species of peacock spider are discovered ...
The coalition would return to government, but both Christophers - Luxon and Hipkins - have lost popularity, according to the latest 1News-Verian poll. ...
The coalition would return to government, but both Christophers - Luxon and Hipkins - have lost popularity, according to the latest 1News-Verian poll. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Julia Powles, Associate Professor of Law and Technology; Director, UWA Tech & Policy Lab, Law School, The University of Western Australia Since 2019, the Australian Department for Industry, Science and Resources has been striving to make the nation a leader in “safe ...
A View from Afar – In this episode of A View From Afar political scientist Paul Buchanan and host Selwyn Manning analyse how the state of Israel has gone rogue, attacking United Nations peacekeepers in southern Lebanon. At this juncture it is clear this is an intentional attack. ...
Exclusive: New leadership hires at the Human Rights Commission were contrary to recommendations made by the independent panel tasked with leading the process, documents released under the Official Information Act reveal.On a quiet Friday afternoon in August, justice minister Paul Goldsmith announced the appointment of three leadership roles at ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Daniel Eldridge, Senior Lecturer in Chemistry, Swinburne University of Technology Dmitrii Pridannikov/Shutterstock Heat can do amazing things to change your hairstyle. Whether you’re using a curling wand to get ringlets, a flat iron to straighten or a hair dryer to style, ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Clare Dix, Lecturer In Nutrition & Dietetics, University of the Sunshine Coast Queensland Premier Steven Miles has announced free school lunches if Labor is re-elected at the state’s upcoming election on October 26. The A$1.4 billion policy would cover primary students ...
By New Zealand Parliament failing to adequately address political corruption, Parliament fails to ensure a culture of integrity is led from the top. Human rights will always be better protected in countries that can demonstrate political integrity and transparency. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kellie Toohey, Associate Professor Clinical Exercise Physiology, Southern Cross University Ivan Samkov/Pexels When you think of lung cancer treatment, what comes to mind – chemotherapy, radiation, surgery? While these can be crucial, there’s another powerful tool that’s often overlooked: exercise. Our ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sasha Grishin, Adjunct Professor of Art History, Australian National University Installation view of OA_RR, 2016-2017 at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia Photo Kate Shanasy Is Reko Rennie Australia’s equivalent of Keith Haring? Both Rennie, a Melbourne-based Aboriginal artist who celebrates ...
Alex Casey returns to a New Zealand classic on its 30th birthday. Just yesterday I walked a track through Christchurch’s Victoria Park and boy was it pleasant. The sunlight beamed through the canopy of trees, providing welcome warm zones in the cool forest air. Everyone grinned goofily as they passed ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne The United States presidential election will be held on November 5. In analyst Nate Silver’s aggregate of national polls, Democrat Kamala Harris ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne A national Newspoll, conducted October 7–11 from a sample of 1,258, gave the Coalition a 51–49 lead, a one-point gain for the ...
Pete Douglas tunes in for Matt Heath’s first week in his new job on Newstalk ZB. There are two ways to view Newstalk ZB. One is that it is a boomer hellscape, full of ads for retirement care facilities, patronised by a pitchfork-wielding mob desperate to jump on the blower ...
The LIVE Recording of A View from Afar podcast will begin today, Monday at 12:45pm October 14, 2024 (NZST) which is Sunday evening, 7:45pm (USEST). In this episode of A View From Afar political scientist Paul Buchanan and host Selwyn Manning I will analyse how the state of ...
WWF-New Zealand’s CEO, Dr Kayla Kingdon-Bebb, says the news is a devastating blow for all those who’ve worked to revive the Hauraki Gulf/Tīkapa Moana and protect it for future generations. ...
Last week, Robot Rampage hosted its Arena Grand Opening in Auckland. Gabi Lardies was there to check out the fighters.Robots are dangerous. Really dangerous. I did not realise robots were so dangerous until I saw them fight to the death in a bulletproof glass and iron cage. Most of ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mia Cobb, Research Fellow, Animal Welfare Science Centre, The University of Melbourne Bigzumi/Shutterstock When you hear about “science focused on how dogs can live their best lives with us” it sounds like an imaginary job made up by a child. However, ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Richard Shaw, Professor of Politics, Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa – Massey University Getty Images Nearly a year on from its formation, it’s clear a three-party coalition is not quite the same as the two-party versions New Zealand is accustomed to. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By James Blackwell, Research Fellow (Indigenous Diplomacy), Australian National University It’s one year since the failed referendum to enshrine a First Nations Voice to Parliament in the Australian Constitution. The vote represents a moment of deep sadness and frustration for many First ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Glenn Savage, Associate Professor of Education Policy and the Future of Schooling, The University of Melbourne As Australian students begin the final term of 2024, governments are in the middle of a bitter standoff over public school funding for next year. ...
In Muriwhenua, iwi are working hard to maintain a vital connection to Ninety Mile Beach, Te Oneroa-a-Tōhe. There is a whakataukī where I come from in the Far North: “Ko Herekino tapoko rau, he iwi mākutu”, which roughly translates to “Herekino of a hundred valleys and a tribe skilled in ...
Another day in John Key’s neo-liberal nightmare.
We have become a cruel, greedy, uncaring and selfish nation under his wretched leadership.
It was -2 degrees in Dunedin last night.
It was 3 degrees in Christchurch last night.
Not very warm to be sleeping in a car.
Not very warm to be sleeping in a container.
Not very warm to be sleeping in a garage.
Not very warm to be sleeping on the street.
The mainstream media may think that young millionaire Lamborghini drivers, the Game of Thrones and Samsung selfies are news items, but they are not.
The majority of the media is doing everything they can to support Paula Bennett and move homelessness off the headlines.
“Try walking in my shoes, it’s not actually that easy.”
This was the challenge TA set to Prime Minister John Key. But really it’s a challenge for us all.
I am deeply disturbed with what planet key is doing to NZ as we are being destroyed now by his disease called “the greed breed”.
Surely John Key’s lack of action on Climate Change is providing a warmer environment for the homeless.
I can hear the cries of anguish now “but stabilising global warming hasn’t helped the homeless!” Followed by a another ‘another day in John Key’s neo-liberal nightmare’ post.
Hope for Britain’s sake they’re not sending Groser and the crew who signed the TPP!
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2016/06/29/new-zealand-offers-uk-its-top-trade-negotiators-for-post-brexit/
Interesting times, Boris and Gove played with matches and ended up burning their cosy clubhouse down that they were throwing rocks at their own party from.
Now they along with Farage have to deliver on their BS spin in a climate where many are pretty pissed with their antics.
Old Nigel may find it all a bit much once the national front types realise they got played and to quote the guardian as Boris has withdrawn already ‘ a man who will not clean up his own mess’.
Yes, getting messier and messier over there.
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/news/article.cfm?c_id=2&objectid=11666710
Meanwhile, it looks like the coup in the Labour Party is hitting some road bumps.
http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2016/jun/30/labour-mps-divided-over-how-to-depose-jeremy-corbyn
“unity candidate” – facepalm…
“Hope for Britain’s sake they’re not sending Groser and the crew who signed the TPP!”
If it is Goser he will have drunk all the wine, before he manages to get there…
If it is Key, he will have a great time on the golf course, do whatever the US and UK want and expand his personal wealth, networking and connections. He might stop in at Buckingham palace to say Labour made him do it (referendum to change the flag), no offence, Ma’am. Lets face it, Key is out of his depth in any way apart from financial Tory wizardry, (somehow managing to increase our debt to eyewatering proportions while having nothing to show for it and have people living in tents).
Let’s hope for the farmers and our economy the delegate is Winston Peters. For the good of our country and relationship lets hope it is Winson Peters. National may not like him, but he is clearly the man for the job to get the best deal and the best relationship!
Another day in John Key’s neo-liberal nightmare.
We have become a cruel, greedy, uncaring and selfish nation under his wretched leadership.
Cruel.
The MSD.
Waatea 5th Estate “The Case of Katherine and the MSD”
This should be compulsory viewing for all New Zealanders.
What is this country coming to?
Not often I feel ashamed to be a kiwi.
I hope this gets traction in the news cycle.
Shame on the cold hearted msd staff.
Instead of a net to stop people falling, msd have turned it into a drift net that pulls people down.
What an appalling culture has been nutured in that government department.
Why, as a society, are we so cruel, heartless,callous and uncaring towards women doing the most important job?
Surely folk who reckon they are having children so they can live the high life on the state, have gone the same way as the trickle-downers, climate change deniers.
As is said in the clip, there seems to be sexism in play.
‘Benefit cheat/fraud’ implies wrong and theft.
Tax avoidance/evasion implies clever.
The former is punished severely often with incarceration.
The latter gets high powered men writing laws to protect them.
I caught something on the radio yesty- figures from UK suggest that the under payment of benefits/denial of entitlements dwarfs the fraud numbers.
Pullya benefits scripted carve up of MSD using many elves and sprites now fronted by ayatolley needs massive sunlight.
The ticket clipping is obscene aside from the systemic damage nact have inflicted.
Thanks Paul. That is a great episode. I saw it mid way through and it was unbelievable! When thedailyblog gets back up, worth watching.
It is shocking!
6 months of prison for a women with young children (who has had her infant murdered by a previous partner) for benefit fraud based on the violent and dysfunctional testimony of the ‘partner’ who gets away scott free by the sound of it.
For those neoliberals out there who thinks society runs to a budget, we just spent over $100,000 on legal fees and prison fees and f&^ked up more kids by taking their mother away and got $1600 back she does not seem to even owe.
If we take the ‘bankruptcy’ laws that say you can write off you debt because it means you will be more productive and can recover your life, you have to ask, how can someone recover their life and get off a benefit, get a job with a criminal conviction and hundreds of thousands in debt? More double standards against women and children.
No wonder we have the highest abuse rates in the world! It starts with blatant discrimination of vulnerable women by government officials and our legal system.
Excellent points. IRD can and does write off debt for hardship other than core Child Support debt, and are actually reasonably proactive about it. Would be nice for other government departments (MSD…) to do the same.
Frontrunner Boris Johnson stuns Westminster by pulling out of Tory Leadership Race
Comes in the immediate wake of a whole swathe of Tory MP defections from Camp Boris and a series of newly-released Polls showing him trailing Theresa May among Tory voters, voters in general and the Party’s membership.
The latest YouGov says it all.
Compared to the February Poll of Tory Party members, Boris’s negativity ratings have increased substantially.
There’s a kind of Tortoise and Hare scenario.
Boris leads the Brexit campaign in his usual loud and colourful way / May (considered mildly Eurosceptic by many) takes a very low profile role in the Remain campaign (some might say, not entirely unlike Corbyn).
As a consequence, Boris has his credibility destroyed among the large minority of Tory members who were pro-Remain, whilst May manages to maintain enormous cross-over appeal to both sides of the Conservative Membership.
YouGov
27-29 June 2016
Tory Party Members
Positive or Negative View of Potential Leader
………………………………………Boris Johnson………………………Theresa May
Feb 2016…………………Pos 76% / Neg 14%…………….Pos 68% / Neg 11%
June 2016……………….Pos 58% / Neg 30%…………….Pos 72% / Neg 13%
June
LEAVE supporters………..Pos 83% / Neg 6%……………….Pos 66% / Neg 18%
REMAIN supporters…….Pos 16% / Neg 71%……………..Pos 84% / Neg 3%
Boris’s support comes almost entirely (92%) from Tory members who voted Leave, whereas May’s support derives almost as much from Leavers (44%) as Remainers (56%).
In the one-on-one match-ups, Boris beats all possible contenders except May. She wins easily by 55% to 38%.
One-on-One by EU Vote
………………………………..Boris………Theresa
LEAVE……………………….56%…………..38%
REMAIN…………………….8%……………..84%
Again, May with much greater cross-over appeal.
All confirms the long-standing Iron-Law of Tory Leadership Contests: That the initial Front-runner NEVER wins.
Swordfish. You ARE the news. Thanks for this comment and all the previous ones providing information previously unseen by these eyes and casting light on angles I hadn’t considered.
Have a good day. Stay warm.
Me too Swordfish.
http://m.nzherald.co.nz/opinion/news/article.cfm?c_id=466&objectid=11666513
A kiwi in the UK’s take on brexit from someone who’s their
Nothing about the sociopolitical context that led to Brexit. The perspective on racism adds something. More angst about the middle classes losing privilege under neoliberalism not so much.
Featherweight opinion piece.
So, the poor dear doesn’t know what to do? Get at the back of the line, lady.
It must be amazing being able to hate every normal human on the planet . dick heads.
What’s going on at The Daily Blog. Can’t open it. Message keeps coming up with a connection error. Anyone else having the same problem?
Hope it’s not under attack again!
Me too mary_a, haven’t been able to get through either. Hopefully Martyn will get it underway soon.
me too.
I dunno whats happened, but the Plesk page that comes up says you either. 1 put no content up or 2 the provider has suspended your page. Hmmm..
While we’re worried about little old Britain having a little old leadership change, spare a thought for Saudi Arabia. The last stable Muslim nation between Pakistan and Nigeria. A two minute clip from Bloomberg:
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-06-30/the-slow-motion-crisis-in-saudi-arabia-in-two-minutes
Saudis are confronting a future of cheaper oil, in a country where oil is everything. Can Saudi Arabia wean itselfoff the proceeds of oil?
Its plan is to sell 5% of Aramco with the biggest listing of all time, and get that to help form a sovereign wealth fund worth up to US $2 trillion. That’s enough to buy Apple, Microsoft, Google (Alphabet), Exxon Mobil, and still have plenty of change.
There’s the resistant clerics.
There’s 80% vof the workforce being foreign.
There’s nearly half of the population under 25, and they make up 30% of the unemployed.
There’s no friends and no stability on any border.
There’s the inability to keep generations of patrimony going.
There’s patriarchal suppression of pretty much everything, and massive clerical resistance to change of pretty much anything.
In terms of the future stability of the Middle East, unlike the US invading multiple times, they have a plan.
But it’s the biggest roll of the dice we will see in our generation.
Could I run something past you please, I’m interested in your comments.
I get the Supported Living Payment for uncontrolled epilepsy.
In the last few years dealing with WINZ has become so stressful it’s become a seizure trigger for me and I can directly link 3 WINZ run-ins with emergency hospital admissions. (Been dealing with them since the late 1980s and this has never been an issue till 6 years ago, note the timing).
I recently had to voluntarily surrender the remaining $5/week Special benefit because of how crazy the 3 monthly reviews have become and because it’s too medically dangerous for me to go near a WINZ office.
There’s a contraceptive pill that prevents hormone-induced seizures for me.
But the only one that actually works (they are not created equal) is the only one that’s not funded, and it costs about $5/week, or $250/year. That’s a lot out of a benefit, I can get 3-4 meals out of that.
I did try the funded version but it made no difference.
I recently stopped said pill mostly because that $5 was starting to become difficult. (I also pay full price for another drug, that was funded when I started it but then funding changed to a generic and I could never make the switch so it’s pay for the brand or nothing. That happens frequently in NZ).
Not being on the pill caused some serious seizure problems that landed me in A&E for the day, only just avoiding being admitted.
Last time I heard- quite a few years ago- just an admission to A&E was $300 so I hate to think was that is now, but even if it was $500, well that’s 2 years worth of that pill cost gone in just a few hours on an avoidable admission.
My GP went into battle with the Health Ministry about funding for the pill because of it’s use as a medical drug, but no success.
There was never any help from WINZ at the time (every excuse under the sun) plus I had to give up with them for the sake of my health anyway.
That’s the saga, I’m not after sympathy or anything, or even whining about lack of money, but what I cannot for the life of me figure out, is DO THESE BLOODY IDEALOGUES WHO ARE SO HELL BENT ON DESTROYING THE WELFARE SYSTEM EVEN KNOW (OR CARE) ABOUT SIMPLE COST/BENEFIT ANALYSIS?????
Surely, even to those Nat voters who despise people like me simply for existing, (apologies, “beneficiary” wasn’t on my career plan when I started Uni) why is it so hard to comprehend that a few dollars for to help with medications and not putting us in the eat/heat/treat situation, is actually a hell of a lot cheaper than the avoidable cost to the public health system? Or because it’s not the welfare budget don’t you mind your hard working taxes being spent on us that way?
My scenario is just a small one, but it’s common. Taken to the extreme people die.
@Kay, no the neoliberal dumbos do not even follow their own ideology in which case they would have an efficient system!! What a terrible story and way to be treated. It is not even about saving money, it is about a punishing regime, that makes no sense. In fact they are wasting massive amounts of money. It’s crazy.
We can all only hope we can get a change of government for a more humane and less Kafkaesque way to treat our fellow citizens.
Hopefully we will get, Nexit.
Kay….if you live in Auckland track the support group Sue Bradford’s involved with. They go into battle with WINZ and are often very successful.
Kay, I don’t know how to answer your question except to say “what save nz said”.
I feel very frustrated after hearing your story and knowing it’s amplified by thousands of unwell people around NZ. I have no idea what it does to a persons outlook and self esteem over time, being treated like you’re a nuisance getting in their way, being belittled first by those that are meant to help and then by stupid unkind people.
Geez, my only experience with WINZ is as an agent for my mother and advocating on her behalf for her disability allowance and secondly applying for her residential care subsidy. In that very short amount of time, winz have literally made me pull out my hair with their patronising way they speak to me, their failure to get the basic things done and their total and absolute indifference to my mothers situation and her vulnerability.
So, I don’t know who long term winz “clients” cope with the effort required just to get what you need and still be able retain self belief and hold their head up high.
Lastly, your scenario isn’t a “small one”. It’s a life changing, life effecting one. I hope you have good support from some quarters.
I guess the only thing that can change in your favour is a change to the government and a commitment from a new government to fully review the culture at winz and implement necessary change.
Take care Kay.
HI Rosie, thank you for your kind words.
“So, I don’t know who long term winz “clients” cope with the effort required just to get what you need and still be able retain self belief and hold their head up high.”
In a nutshell, a lot of us no longer do. It’s a fight for $5 in my case and a fight not worth my physical- and mental- health. I personally know others, and there’s plenty of anecdotal reports around of people who have been forced to make the hard decisions about what medical treatments they can continue with. I’ve had to abandon necessary physio treatment for injuries from seizures because the ACC surcharge is just too much. (I can’t remember which Govt got rid of the full physio subsidy but that was disasterous for many on low/fixed incomes).
It would be really interesting to find out just how many hospital admissions involving people with chronic health problems can be directly linked to financial problems. We hear from time to time about low income families not picking up antibiotic prescriptions because they can’t afford the charges and the child subsequently ending up in hospital. I’ll bet anything that every every hospital doctor in the country has stories. But not officially, of course. That would be way too embarrassing for the Minister so a formal enquirey, or even survey will never happen.
Frustration is the word, but what to do? Even the Greens no longer speak out for us (supporting beneficiaries is just too politically toxic I guess) so there’s no one at all in the political establishment. When you’re trying to reason with the RWNJs and post on forums, write to MPs or whatever it is you do, can you point out just how much the welfare policies they’re embracing are costing the health system? Maybe it might sink in to the odd one…
(ps. I’ve exercised personal responsibility- shock. horror, us bludgers actually have that trait- and restarted that pill. More creative budgeting but I can put together a better budget than Bill ever could. Aside from not wanting to waste precious public hospital resources, if it’s possible to stop a few tonic clonic seizures every month well that’s a no brainer. They’re really not fun.)
Hi Kay.
Your response needs a more considered reply then I can give as I’m restrained by time I’m sorry. Hopefully we can talk again another time son.
I just want to respond to this:
” I’ve had to abandon necessary physio treatment for injuries from seizures because the ACC surcharge is just too much. (I can’t remember which Govt got rid of the full physio subsidy but that was disasterous for many on low/fixed incomes).”
This was the new National coalition government that removed the full subsidy from our ACC physio appointments. I think it came into effect in 2009. I have also had to abandon much needed physio for injuries in the last 7 years, which makes me angry and hinders my mobility.
I wrote awhile ago to then ACC opposition spokesperson, Iain Lees Galloway and Kevin Hague, ACC spokesperson from the Greens about restoring the subsidy to all physio’s should we get a Labour Green coalition in government. This was back in 2014. Mr Galloway, said in a very nice way, no. Kevin Hague never replied.
“It would be really interesting to find out just how many hospital admissions involving people with chronic health problems can be directly linked to financial problems”.
I reckon it would be high. Higher than in previous decades.
My brother lives with epilepsy. He had a serious tonic clonic seizure a few years ago, the worst in his life. He was lucky not to die from his injuries and was left exhausted and off work for months. Drivers license suspended etc. He has money though, private insurance etc so got through without having to worry about that side of things.
It is morally unacceptable that you to live with your illness, with only grudging support at best, from your government, and without the means to easily purchase the appropriate medication.
Kia Ora
Caitlyn Jenner supports Trump – too “macho” but good for womens issues; says Hillary Clinton is a “fucking liar” and a “political hack”
Comments that the economy and jobs are absolutely crucial issues for America.
http://www.eonline.com/shows/i_am_cait/news/747403/caitlyn-jenner-says-donald-trump-would-be-very-good-for-women-s-issues-calls-hillary-clinton-a-f-king-liar-watch
Yeah, a man who allegedly raped a 13 year old will be marvelous for women.
//
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/lisa-bloom/why-the-new-child-rape-ca_b_10619944.html
Hi joe90, I can’t believe how cavalierly and quickly you dismissed the opinions of a well known LGBT activist like Jenner based on anonymous allegations. Shame on you.
What do you have to say about Hillary enabling – or at least turning a blind eye to – Bill sexually assaulting many women and coercing other women for sexual favours over his political career?
Do you have any evidence to support that claim against H?
Or B, for that matter, but your claim is actually against hillary.
By “evidence” I mean something other than “the intrinsic intelligence of the universe told me to pass on this message”.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bill_Clinton_sexual_misconduct_allegations
Notice his tactic of attempting to discredit the women who come forward.
so a few allegations against bill (mostly of having consensual affairs, but whatever).
One claim that hillary knew of one incident. So hardly “enabling – or at least turning a blind eye to – Bill sexually assaulting many women and coercing other women for sexual favours”.
” so a few allegations against bill (mostly of having consensual affairs, but whatever”
Wow. Just wow. Talk about minimisation.
dude, your claim was against hillary of, at one extreme of your qualifications, enabling many rapes and other coerced sexual assaults by bill.
Your link doesn’t support that comment.
You were making shit up, sorry, you were channelling the intrinsic intelligence of the universe.
The intrinsic intelligence of the universe could be sued for defamation.
outraged…
lol
That’s nice, you had five minutes to spare.
/
Caitlyn Jenner is not an LGBT activist; she’s a self-aggrandising person interested in her own publicity and wealth. With that considered, it is obvious why she likes Trump.
Her publicity work includes of advocating for people who directly oppose rights for LGBT people and this makes things directly worse for LGBT people in the USA, in particular trans people. Activist? Fuck no.
“well known LGBT activist like Jenner”
You what now??? You are in lala land with that statement.
Are speaking about the same Caitlyn Jenner?
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-3359887/If-look-like-man-dress-makes-people-uncomfortable-Caitlyn-Jenner-faces-backlash-comments-Time-Magazine.html
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2015/09/09/ellen-degeneres-cant-understand-caitlyn-jenner-opposing-equal-marriage/
LGBT activist – ahh no. Self absorbed ego maniac – yes.
This is just another reason why I have a soft spot for the SNP.
You may have heard by now D.Trumpf is now going around the world begging for campaign finances, lets put aside that is illegal. Lets also put aside he knows it’s illegal.
Lets just embrace a MP who is a fine example of a human being.
NATALIE McGARRY you are a wonderfully honest individual. My hope is the system won’t grind you down. Hugs and bikkies from the south pacific.
For the best bit, scroll down to her email response. It is just wonderful.
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/donald-trump-fundraising-email-mp-natalie-mcgarry-reply-warm-hope-his-repugnant-campaign-will-fail-a7108701.html
Just a wee reminder of how much money the Clinton Foundation received from foreigners looking for favours from Hillary during her term as Secretary of State (I posted this in OM a day or two ago):
From a Clinton Foundation document revealed by a hacker. (Please forgive the caps, they were in the article).
Here are some of the section titles:
*THE CLINTON FOUNDATION RECEIVED DONATIONS FROM INDIVIDUALS TIED TO SAUDI ARABIA WHILE CLINTON SERVED AS SECRETARY OF STATE
*AN EMBATTLED BUSINESSMAN WITH “TIES TO BAHRAIN’S STATE-OWNED ALUMINUM COMPANY” GAVE BETWEEN $1 MILLION AND $5 MILLION TO THE CLINTON FOUNDATION
*A VENEZUELAN MEDIA MOGUL WHO WAS ACTIVE IN VENEZUELAN POLITICS DONATED TO THE CLINTON FOUNDATION DURING CLINTON’S TENURE AS SECRETARY OF STATE
*GERMAN INVESTOR WHO HAS LOBBIED CHANCELLOR MERKEL’S ADMINISTRATION GAVE BETWEEN $1 MILLION AND $5 MILLION TO THE CLINTON FOUNDATION, SOME OF WHICH WAS DURING MRS. CLINTON’S TENURE AT THE STATE DEPARTMENT
*THE CEO OF AN AMSTERDAM BASED ENERGY COMPANY DONATED AT LEAST $1 MILLION TO THE CLINTON FOUNDATION AND LATER ANNOUNCED AT THE 2009 CGI MEETING A $5 BILLION PROJECT TO DEVELOP ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY POWER GENERATION IN INDIA AND CHINA
*INDIAN POLITICIAN AMAR SINGH, WHO HAD DONATED AT LEAST $1 MILLION TO THE CLINTON FOUNDATION, MET WITH HILLARY CLINTON IN SEPTEMBER 2008 TO DISCUSS AN INDIA-U.S. CIVIL NUCLEAR AGREEMENT
*THE CLINTON FOUNDATION RECEIVED ADDITIONAL DONATIONS FROM INDIAN BUSINESS INTERESTS PRIOR TO HER BECOMING SECRETARY OF STATE
*BILLIONAIRE STEEL EXECUTIVE AND MEMBER OF THE FOREIGN INVESTMENT COUNCIL IN KAZAKHSTAN LAKSHMI MITTAL GAVE $1 MILLION TO $5 MILLION TO THE CLINTON FOUNDATION BEFORE CLINTON BECAME SECRETARY OF STATE
*SOON AFTER SECRETARY CLINTON LEFT THE STATE DEPARTMENT, THE CLINTON
FOUNDATION “RECEIVED A LARGE DONATION FROM A CONGLOMERATE RUN BY A MEMBER OF CHINA’S NATIONAL PEOPLE’S CONGRESS”
http://www.zerohedge.com/news/2016-06-21/clinton-foundation-vulnerabilities-document-leaked-after-foundation-says-it-was-hack
Oh please, the real Hilary problem is her main super pac funded her campaign for democratic nomination. Again illegal, but not unheard of.
Sheesh when did you become a fan boy for dumpft?
I agree that Trump’s campaign funding legalities are an issue. But unlike Clinton he’s trying to get funds from the Scottish.
Not from Saudi Arabia, China, India or Kazakhstan.
Further, Trump is clearly desperate for money. Reports say that the Clinton campaign currently has 30x more money than his. It’s not hard to see why.
but he’s totally rich. Billions. Isn’t he self-funding his campaign anyway?
lol
Yeah right…