Imagining Golriz explaining herself to her co-leaders yesterday:
"I felt I needed to be an authentic left-winger. Property is theft."
J: "Greed is good." M: "That's actually rightist." J: "Then how come Labour have been doing it since the mid-'80s?" M: "That's just neoliberalism. Simulation works real well in politics." J: "Tell me about it. Why do you think I had to do a decade in the London corporate scene, not to mention wearing short back & sides all the time?"
M: "Just copy the establishment. And make sure you help yourself – when Maoris went to the Chathams & helped themselves to all those Moriori slaves, they did it in an English sailing ship. They didn't use a waka. Fast learners."
G: "Yeah, so I went into up-market fashionista places & helped myself. Took each item into a suburb where the poor & needy live, found one the right shape & size & told her I don't need this garment any more but would only give it to her if she absolutely needed it a they always said "Oh, absolutely!" so the strategy worked really well."
J: "Clever. The Robin Hood ethos has worked for centuries." M: "Authentic left-wing praxis! So you're intending to do a Metiria & tell the truth?" G: "Damn right I am!"
I imagine it less as a discussion about left wing praxis, and more James gently banging his head against a desk and regretting every life decision he made to get him to this point.
The poor guy just can't catch a break. All the while, the party is imploding around him under the weight of its own self-righteousness and general political naivete.
James has a great deal more depth to him than your comments indicate you enjoy, Res. He's caught plenty of breaks in his time as Green leader and has attracted a spectacularly good team which has, with few exceptions, functioned exceptionally well over the period of his leadership, most notably, leaving the Opposition side of the House and gaining influence in Government – hardly a fail, for the party, or for James. This presently-unfolding situation will be testing all involved, but your glee at their discomfort isn't going to affect them in the slightest.
I think James has been an incredibly effective leader and is a key reason the party has been able to survive a couple of incredibly tough electoral cycles.
I also believe the latest cohort of MPs is the strongest and most capable the party has ever had.
However, I worry the Greens have a long-term problem around not having robust or effective enough processes for dealing with MPs that either underperform or waste the political capital so many volunteers have spent so long building up.
There's far too many Metirias, Elizabeths, Riccardos and Golriz's and not enough Chloes or Te Anaus.
We also have to bear in mind the main driver of the Greens share of the vote is people drifting left from Labour, or abandoning them when they inevitably tack towards tepid incrementalism.
As such, the fact the party currently has 15 MPs is more down to circumstance than solid or effective political strategy.
That's what makes being a Green Party supporter so damned difficult. I've never been so simultaneously hopeful, yet so anxious about the direction the party is going in.
Golriz will quickly resign and be replaced by Celia Wade-Brown. The worse part is that these are all such high-end luxury stores that does not fit with the Greens social image so whether the charges are proven or not she has to go.
The Green Party will move on-its a great time in the electoral cycle for this to happen….in 3 years nobody will remember.
2 MPs out of a caucus of at most, 15 after the last election. From a party that prides itself on being above the fray.
Given the size of caucus and uphill battle the party faces to get a clear, consistent message across in the face of cashed up, hard right government parties, I'd argue that one scandal is one too many.
We can't afford to fall into the trap Labour did and assume our support amongst certain chunks of the electorate is locked in forever.
The party prides itself on its ethical behaviour, quite correctly.
That doesn't inure it, or any party, from "out of party" behaviours by an individual MP, such as shopping, that might not meet the party's expectations.
To expect politicians to be perfect is unrealistic and I believe The Greens know this well.
In any case, we don't yet know for certain what has happened.
Question for you, Res: what was the other scandal you mention?
I think it's perfectly reasonable to expect an MP to not commit petty crimes.
Or, if they're accused of committing said petty crimes, for them to either front up with a clear explanation or else resign before the allegations cause too much political damage.
Like Plutarch wrote: "Uxorem Caesaris tam suspicione quam crimine carere oportet"
I mean if they lost 2 MPs every 12 months, I would agree. They've lost 5 MPs over 8 years. No-one would think that's great, but it's hardly the party imploding especially when we look at how they have recovered from the 2017 fallout. They have strong, stable co-leaders, and caucus is a mix of experienced MPs (including Ministerial experience), MPs gaining experience, and new incoming MPs. Looks good to me.
I'm not particularly bothered if Ghahraman leaves. Celia Wade Brown is next on the list, so there's another experienced politican coming in.
Definitly not an implosion, probably indicative of a need to look at candidate selection and support as the party and number of mp's grows.
Political life is a particulary brutal one especially when you advocate for minority causes and I suspect plenty of candidates are ill prepared. Perhaps more so coming from an activist background rather than a cut throat corporate background parties on the right prefer. They usually self destruct when their arsehole tendancies come to the surface.
Definitly not an implosion, probably indicative of a need to look at candidate selection and support as the party and number of mp's grows.
maybe. Of the five controversial resignations since 2017, I think Kerekere is the only one that was unfit to be an MP.
Ghahraman has now resigned, the RNZ piece below is pretty good. I don't think the solution to bad behaviour from extreme stress is to only choose hardnut candidates, I think it's to change the culture of parliament and politics.
I'm sure all parties, including the Greens need to continually review their support of MPs. We're not the same country we were when Ghahraman became an MP either.
maybe. Of the five controversial resignations since 2017, I think Kerekere is the only one that was unfit to be an MP.
I think Steffan Browing also counts. Although he jumped before he was able to be pushed.
I definitely agree for the need to change our culture in Parliament in particular and our discourse around politics in general.
But we also have to deal with the political reality for us in the meantime. Parliament will continue to be extremely robust (read: toxic) and across the left, we need to ensure we select candidates that are able to withstand the hurly-burly of retail politicking in an environment that's inimical to our interests.
When it came to my list ranking at candidate conference, my rubric was always to pick who was likeliest to make their National/ACT party counterpart break out in sweat whenever they got asked a question in Parliament then went from there.
I don't think Browning does count, nothing particularly controversial about him leaving, he was no longer a good fit and he resigned.
When it came to my list ranking at candidate conference, my rubric was always to pick who was likeliest to make their National/ACT party counterpart break out in sweat whenever they got asked a question in Parliament then went from there.
That's why we have macho politics. As long as people want hardman politics that's what we will get.
I don't think that has much to do with Ghahraman though. Everyone has a breaking point given enough stress. You saw what Ardern looked like when she resigned. Politics destroys some people, the smart ones get out early because they can see it happening. We don't have to do politics like that.
As someone that was a delegate at candidate conferences over 3 or 4 election cycles, I definitely think the Greens need to seriously look at their candidate process.
We've thrown away a lot of talent in the name of building a caucus that reflects only a very narrow section of the party's base. Yet one that wields an outsized influence when it comes to list ranking time.
It's interesting how quickly the political landscape has crystalized into a (kind-of) equilibrium with between 5-7 parties depending on whether NZ First makes it in or not.
We haven't had a new party make it into Parliament since the Greens in 1999. And the history of parties created by defections is just as bad. The last one I can remember surviving the subsequent election was Mana back in 2011.
We also somehow seemed to avoided the fragmentation of our traditional broad-church parties into harder left or right organisations à la most of the EU.
At that stage it would have had a low priority. It was shortly after the election and there was a lot of stuff going on which might have involved the police.
I also know from personal experience: the police are reluctant to investigate matters which might concern politicians or persons linked to politicians. Admittedly my case was a long time ago but I doubt anything has changed.
A very long time indeed. Shoplifting is regarded as a very low-level crime, and will be right at the bottom of the internal police allocation of time.
Even in an open-and-shut case (which I'm not suggesting this one is – we still have no idea on Ghahraman's take on the situation) – with CTV footage and name/address of the offender supplied – it can take many months for the police to take action (if they ever do)
that would have to be one of the better MSM pieces I've read on the situation, thanks.
If she is guilty, I hadn't considered that she might try to stay on against the wishes of the party. It won't affect the party much given they're not in government, but would be unfair on the next person on the list. I'd be surprised if she did that though.
Don't really know how it would work if she says she is not guilty and wants to stay on, and what the party would do.
I have however considered that she might be having a huge personal crisis and that working through that alongside the MP issues and their internal process might be why the party is taking its time before speaking publicly.
Salt of the Earth, eh? Very trad. I see Stuff is featuring an old friend from the early Green Party, Steve Hart. I'd be disappointed if he really is in anthropogenic climate-change denial. Had a good old rave for a couple of hours with him last winter & don't recall him adopting that stance then.
The pandemic state threat to freedom of choice has split the old alt-Aotearoa scene wide open. Any complex system is vulnerable to such indeterminant shifts anytime, just needs a catalytic trigger. We survive by adapting, after the initial eye-roll.
As a constituent I am very impressed with our current Mayor – his communications to the community are great and a really breathe of fresh air after our previous incumbent.
I know it seems weird, but I would actually like to say something in support of the Greens.
I have been hearing the media going ballistic about why the Greens haven't fronted about the shoplifting allegations, and that their only response is that the matter is in the hands of the police.
But, actually, what more can the Greens say about the matter? They aren't qualified to determine matters of criminality. And, the police are the appropriate organisation to determine whether there is a case (or cases) to answer.
So, I think the media needs to STFU and leave things to the police to do their job.
Putting all the politics aside, I think the media should have its main concern to be be the mental health of Golriz rather than salacious media headlines.
Firstly, if these allegations are true, then it just seems weird behaviour not typical of someone thinking rationally. Secondly, the huge media pile-on must be extremely distressing for her, and can only be exacerbating any mental health issues she may have.
The last thing anyone would want to see is Golriz sinking into deep depression, or committing suicide or such. So, I think the Greens are doing the right thing by saying as little as possible and leaving it to the police.
It's looking more and more like a mental health issue and should be handled with compassion and care. – something I suspect the Greens are trying to do.
Considering her MS condition and the vile racist/misogyny she has been subjected to, it is not surprising she has [perhaps] had a breakdown of some sort. My heart goes out to her.
My brother in law is bipolar and has an addictive personality as well. He went through a shoplifting phase in his late teens/twenties which led to the diagnosis. He was stealing stuff he didn't need. It was very distressing for all concerned and took a long time and heavy duty drugs to bring his life under some semblance of control.
this is pretty much my thinking too. Let the Greens sort out their internal process and attend to whatever needs attending to re Ghahraman's wellbeing. She's not doing any portfolio responsibility work atm. The police will do due process as well, and when they have, we will know more about the situation.
I don't think it's necessarily a mental health issue, apart from the huge stress of the situation. It could be of course, or if she did shoplift then it might be another reason. But agree either way that the MSM should calm down.
Meanwhile, the right wing shit stirrers are all in a frenzy in their toxic soup on twitter. I'm hoping Ghahraman is well protected from that and that someone else is screening her social media, phone and email.
I don't think it's necessarily a mental health issue, apart from the huge stress of the situation.
Agree from personal experience. She must have been under enormous stress given what was happening to her body and the psychological effect of the abuse she was receiving. Stress can cause a person to behave in all sort of ways that are uncharacteristic of them.
that wasn't actually what I meant. What I meant was that the accusations becoming public and what has happened since then are hugely stressful in and of themselves, and that would have mental health impact on anyone.
I agree with James here that there's nothing useful or appropriate about trying to assign meaning and motive to alleged actions that we know very little about.
One way or another, a PR vacuum formed and this is now deepening & widening and turning into a PR nightmare for some and a PR wet dream for others. This hole draws in stupid speculation and ‘commentary’, as always and very predictably, that serves no other purpose than to damage, yet ironically, it is now starting to come from different sides too, it seems. Next thing we’ll hear is that Green MPs are not allowed to window-shop in certain places because it doesn’t befit their ‘social image’, FFS!
In addition, the views of the Ponsonby shop owners have also been conveniently ignored by the media. They did not seek publicity and have given no interviews, despite intense pressure from the media. How very inconsiderate of them!
It is ironic that on this (alleged) crime story, the (alleged) victims don't seem to matter much.
Charter schools are back on the agenda and myths, propaganda and nonsense are along for the ride.
Those schools apparently are going to be free, not be restricted and stifled by rules and regulations.
So, a Government which thinks people running schools should have the freedom to make choices, and so do a better job, is in power. And their first big thing?
Take away freedom and choices, restrict, limit, stifle by telling schools mobile phones are banned? Or are we to have the insanity of Seymour's charter schools allowed to have mobile phones and ordinary state schools not? All overseen by the Minister of Regulation?
I think Charter Schools are similar to home schooling in that there will likely be a lot of variability depending on the quality of teaching etc, programs run etc.
So, in the case of home schooling, parents who are great at teaching and engaging their kids in education are likely to see great results whereas kids are unlikely to do well where parents are hopeless.
In both cases, an analytical study that looks only at the average results of these teaching methods will likely find no benefit, or even negative outcomes. But, that doesn't mean that well designed teaching and education programs in these settings can't work well.
There will be a lot of viability, tsmithfield, that's why accreditation's important. Parents are protected from poor quality schooling by assurances given by a certified agency, except where charter schools operate. If you buy eggs, you want to be protected from illness by a certification programme that is followed by all producers. If charter schools do not require certification in their teaching staff, how can parents be assured of basic quality of teaching?
Robert, I think the criticism of Charter Schools misses some important points.
I agree that most kids will likely best served by public schools for the reasons you give.
But, I know from my involvement on the board of Crossroads Youth with a Future that there are some children who simply do not engage with formal educatoin at all, and tend to drop out of school, or end up being expelled.
So, for such children, the standard cookie-cutter system does not work for them at all. That is where I think Charter type schools can work because they can be designed tackle directly the complex issues that prevent these kids from succeeding in standard education.
It also changes what we mean by "works". So, if these kids made zero progress in a standard learning environment, but some progress in a Charter School, then I guess it could be said that the programme "works" even if that does not show as such in a statistical study.
We don't deal with the education aspect. But we do have qualified youth workers.
One of our functions is to run a program called "Stay Real". This program is for kids who the schools are on the verge or expelling. basically/
The program starts with total acceptance of the kids, warts and all. It aims to help them realise that they have choices in life, and that their past doesn't have to define their future.
One of our youth workers actually came through our program. She now has a diploma in youth work. She is the first person in her family to have any qualification, or even have a job. So, a fantastic achievement for her.
Btw, tsmithfield, the schools you lable, "the standard cookie-cutter system" are not, in fact, that. They have built-in programmes and approaches that accommodate the varying needs of students, teachers, locations and communities.
Sure. But not all. And I don't think there is any talk of Charter Schools becoming main stream. They will always be niche, and cater for a few students only I expect.
National's philosophy of individual choice and personal responsibility at its best:
Yes, we'll absolutely use the coercive power of the state to ban your kids from using their cell phones at school.
But hey, at least they'll be able to choose to smoke, and we've protected you from all that nasty governmental overreach.
And no, you're not allowed to point out the hypocrisy of this you filthy socialist peasant. New Zealander voted for change, so we have a mandate to do whatever we like without criticism. Learn to respect your betters.
We already have private schools which are largely unregulated compared to state schools. I'm not a fan of private or charter schools, but it's not like all schools are currently bound by whatever curricular pronouncements the government make.
In the ECE sector, centres can employ a combination of registered and unregistered teachers, with the resulting combination being a factor in their funding.
That's right, David. So you might be able to tell me whether Charter Schools will be required to only hire registered teachers or Limited Authority teachers as conventional schools are. Perhaps you will also know how compliance to those requirements will be managed – ERO or no?
I would expect the 2024 partnership school model to be different from the 2014 model (a decade has passed, and unfortunately educational standards in NZ have continued to decline), but primarily in areas around student assessment.
The 2014 model was a contestable model, and placed strong accountability on the schools through a contract that was monitored by ERO. I would not expect that to change.
Interestingly, in the same report, the authors noted that the partnership schools all used the same curriculum as mainstream schools, ("although one of the schools opening in 2015 is developing an interesting combination of the Steiner approach and kaupapa Māori within the framework of the New Zealand Curriculum (NZC)"), and that the school day and year are similar to those of state schools.
I am involved in the education sector, although I have had no involvement with partnership schools. I saw enough in their previous tenure to support their reintroduction.
Two powerful new drugs, Donanemab and Lecanemab, heralded a turning point in the fight against Alzheimer’s, the decades-long campaign to make insulin less expensive scored a major victory when the world's three biggest manufacturers lowered their prices, a new meningitis vaccine raised hopes for a disease that kills about 250,000 people a year, and Australia became the first country in the world to classify psychedelics as medicines, approving their use to treat some mental health conditions.
the lord will provide is a stance that recycles feudal subservience…
Wilkerson recites a favourite psalm from memory:
“I love this line,” he said, shaking his head and grinning: “‘Whatever he does’” – a righteous man, that is – “‘prospers’. Prosperity follows him.”
The American prosperity gospel is a materialist practice full of (sometimes unaware) poseurs, a bit like Trump himself. It is not a matter of faith or morality.
The writer can't see faith in Wilkerson?? Or morality? I see a typical christian. Obviously their faith is rewarded whenever the faithful donate them dollars.
Good. Well-handled by her in the fraught circumstances…
"The mental health professional I see says my recent behaviour is consistent with recent events giving rise to extreme stress response, and relating to previously unrecognised trauma," she said.
She said she had fallen short of the high standards expected of elected representatives, and apologised. "I have let down a lot of people and I am very sorry," the statement said. "It's not a behaviour I can explain because it's not rational in any way, and after medical evaluation, I understand I'm not well. The best thing for my mental health is to resign as a Member of Parliament and to focus on my recovery and to find other ways to work for positive change in the world."
when you change your email address TS thinks you are new commenter and holds the comment back for manual approval. Please pick one email address and stick to it.
what a massive disappointment Golriz Ghahraman turned out to be. I hoped she could go all the way in politics, but she has proved unable to make the transition from activist to MP and clearly her mental health is in tatters.
There does seem to be a case to be made for a certain psychological fragility amongst all these MPs whose previous job experience has largely been in the third sector. Their previous experience seems to leave them unprepared/unsuitable to the demands made of them as MPs.
I am not sure what this says more about – the nature of parliament or the nature of the candidates, but both Labour and Greens have to think about it seriously because the third sector provides the vast majority of their candidates these days.
Anyway, best of luck to her and I hope she gets the rest/rehab she needs to make a full recovery. Who is the next batter up?
it's the nature of parliament, but also the nature of politics in NZ.
She was a refugee as a child, she's experienced trauma and seems to have ongoing affects from that, she has a major physical illness that has a pattern of relapses and remissions, she works in a very high stress job, including during a once in a lifetime global health crisis (hardly anyone is talking about the mental health impact of that), she's been subjected to the worst misogyny and racism as well as sustained attacks from the right on social media and probably via Dirty Politics.
This doesn't mean she hasn't made mistakes (imo she has, and there is a political naivety but probably arrogance as well running through that). It means that no-one's mental health is going to be unaffected by all that. Women, brown women in particular, cop a kind of political abuse that others don't.
There's a lot we could do to change parliament and the political culture.
I would hope it's the nature of parliament, and add into the mix the appalling behaviour of our media and certain factions of the general public, especially towards female MPs, which is only going to get worse.
Do we really want all our candidates to be professional politicians with no life experience, or areas of true specialty, and ability to relate to specific sector of our society? In Golriz's case, Human rights and a first hand understanding of being a refugee and having a disability. Is it any wonder that, with the exceptions of her and Mojo Mathis, we've never had MPs with (openly acknowledged) disabilities? Not because they're not capable of running or doing the job, but honestly, who would put up with all this crap?
I don't want to see more candidates who know nothing except for politics and law. Of course any candidate goes into this being aware of the pressures involved, but there does seem to be a reasonable amount of quitting on mental health grounds (including a certain Nat leader).
So the real question is, how can parliament stop being so toxic?
A dispassionate summation. It points to yet another inbuilt advantage the right wing and the right of the left wing have because their candidates mostly come from elite, privileged, establishment backgrounds, and if not are fundamentalists supported by the elite, privileged establishment.
Those robust, entitled influences didn't help Todd Muller or Nikki Kaye who both melted under very little pressure. But they did help Sam Uffindel who learned how to dominate others with threats and violence from a young age.
With 65% counted votes the main players in Iowa are
Trump 50.6%
De Santis 21.4%
Haley 19.7%
If De Santis or Haley pulled out early or maybe did a deal on a joint ticket – if I win you can be VP then it might be more interesting. May be too early but I guess time will tell.
They would both pull out immediately if they had any sense. This is a replay of 2016, when Trump led from the very beginning, and never relinquished his lead. The corporate media kept repeating that a "sensible" Republican candidate would eventually see off the upstart.
Unfortunately, the "sensible" candidates were "Low Energy" Jeb Bush, "Little Marco" Rubio, and most disturbing of all, Lyin' Ted…
Why are some people motivated to circulate hostile political information? While prior studies have focused on partisan motivations, we demonstrate that some individuals circulate hostile rumors because they wish to unleash chaos to “burn down” the entire political order in the hope they gain status in the process. To understand this psychology, we theorize and measure a novel psychological state, the Need for Chaos, emerging in an interplay of social marginalization and status-oriented personalities.
[…]
We outline a theoretical framework about an overlooked psychological strategy for acquiring social status—the incitement of chaos—and demonstrate the relevance of this strategy for contemporary politics. We build on research showing that status-oriented personality traits combined with social rejection can push people toward an escalation of aggressive motivations (Krizan and Johar Reference Krizan and Johar2015; Twenge and Campbell Reference Twenge and Campbell2003). We argue that such motivations, when sufficiently strong, take root as a general destructive mindset. Next, we develop and validate the novel Need for Chaos scale to measure this mindset. Across eight well-powered studies (including representative studies of the U.S. population), we find evidence that the Need for Chaos emerges in an interplay between status-oriented personality traits and social contexts of real and perceived marginalization and is a strong predictor of willingness to share hostile political rumors, over and beyond partisanship.Overall, our findings imply that a challenge facing modern society is the existence of marginalized status-seekers who wish to incite chaos by spreading hostile rumors.
I support lowering it to 16 and enfranchisement of prisoners and more MPs because we need more types of democratic voices. If 100 years old people can vote so can 16 years old people; if you are free or imprisoned then you need a voice in society that pertains to your welfare and rights as well.
Having more MPs in that context would mean a less fragile and more resilient sort of society and theoretically increases the level of engagement both ways politically.
I know nothing about the fourth policy being abolished however if it's anything like democracy sausages in Australia then go and make it even more of a ritual to vote! It would ensure a more civic sort of society and that genuinely matters in this day and age really.
People go to prison as punishment, not for punishment.
putting them under lock and key already curtails them of their freedom.
there is no good public policy reason why prisoners should not be able to vote. Taking away one of their civil rights when they are already being punished is just further punishment.
Loss of privileges is an appropriate part of the consequences of someone breaking the laws of the society they live in. It's part of the social contract. Losing the privilege of voting is, and should be, part of that loss.
Of course, but I’d argue that voting is a right, not a privilege. Which is one of the reasons why it was recommended to give all prisoners voting rights.
Because people in prison are entitled to the necessities of life, Robert. That they lose certain liberties and privileges is simply part of the social contract.
Who decides, David and by what measure of fairness?
Is a phone call to a spouse a necessity? To a lawyer? A view of the sky?
Who decides, David, and by what measure?
Indeed, some rights are taken away temporarily when imprisoned and this is reasonable and justifiable. However, taking away voting rights serve no clear purpose and are not reasonable.
I guess it comes down to how we see voting rights. I see them as part of a person's liberty. When a person breaks the law to the extent they are imprisoned, that liberty (in its many forms) is lost.
I see voting rights as a right. Some rights cannot be taken away unless under very special and specific circumstances and for very special and specific reasons. Arbitrarily removing prisoner voting rights from some prisoners fails these basic and fundamental criteria. Suffice to say, the fundamental principle of rights is protected in several Acts that ought to be consistent with each other.
In any case, similar arguments exist if you view voting rights as a liberty. In your view, it appears that there’s a low hurdle for this liberty to be arbitrarily removed when imprisoned.
My position is entirely consistent and logical. I don't consider a 16-year-old to be an adult, so I do not consider them old enough to vote, or go to jail.
But now the consistency of your position becomes interesting. You support lowering the voting age to 16. So do you support 16 year olds going to jail?
You see consistency in your position; I see simplistic thinking.
There is no logical number where these things become right; each circumstance has to be looked at with regard multiple factors, which change over time. Taking advice from a wide range of thoughtful sources usually produces the soundest result on any issue. Applying the ruler of logic by ideologues at one end of the spectrum is the worst way to make decisions such as voting age etc.
"There is no logical number where these things become right; each circumstance has to be looked at with regard multiple factors, which change over time. "
Over time, I have seen nothing to convince me that 16-year-olds should be eligible to vote, or that we should extend the privilege of voting to people who have committed offences sufficient to have them serving time in jail.
Nothing, I expect, would convince you, but of course you are not the decision-maker. The issues were publicised and opinion collected. This Government squashed those particular proposals because, like you, they are ideologues who seek to suppress those who are not like them.
"…like you, they are ideologues who seek to suppress those who are not like them."
Labelling people you disagree with as 'ideologues' is not an argument, nor is it a rational position to take. If there is a law that removes the franchise from people serving a custodial sentence, then the offender has suppressed that privilege voluntarily. No-one else.
Losing the privilege of voting is, and should be, part of that loss.
I prefer a rational balance between the rehabilitative and punitive aspects of custodial sentences. A multi‐jurisdictional survey for Penal Reform International, published in 2016 (PDF, page 7), concluded:
Disenfranchisement can be viewed as counter-productive to the purpose of imprisonment and the role of a penitentiary system which – as outlined in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the UN Nelson Mandela Rules – is to rehabilitate offenders and thereby reduce recidivism.
Kiwi prisoner disenfranchisement isn't currently a lottery that depends on the length of time between the date a sentence of <3 years is handed down, and the date of a general election – nor should it be, imho.
The Electoral (Registration of Sentenced Prisoners) Amendment Act was passed in June 2020. The Act allows people in prison who are serving prison sentences of less than three years, to enrol to vote in the General Elections. Prisoners on remand have always been able to vote.
Corrections’ role is to facilitate participation in the voting process.
"Kiwi prisoner disenfranchisement isn't currently a lottery that depends on the length of time between the date a sentence of <3 years is handed down, and the date of a general election – nor should it be, imho."
Then just leave the law fixed that people serving time in prison lose the privilege, or the right, to vote. Then there is no lottery.
My preference would be to extend the opportunity to participate in electoral processes to all prisoners in Aotearoa NZ (then there is no lottery), but I'm comfortable (for now) with the current level of prisoner disenfrachisement which reduces the lottery aspect of punishment.
It appears that you see the reintroduction of regressive prisoner disenfranchisement legislation as the preferred solution to the problem (of being too soft on Kiwis serving custodial sentences?) – that's not for me, and we can agree to disagree.
Drowsy just to be clear, I don't see prisoner franchise as being related to any notion of being too 'soft' on sentencing. I see it more as a logical extension of the removal of liberty generally.
I don't see prisoner franchise as being related to any notion of being too 'soft' on sentencing.
I was thinking less "'soft' on sentencing", and more 'soft/friendly on rights and conditions' while incarcerated.
Reintroducing universal disenfranchisement for prisoners would increase the lottery aspect of deprivation for those serving sentences <3 years – being deprived of the right to vote in a general election would subsequently depend on when in an electoral cycle a prison sentence started. AFAIK, our coalition government hasn't indicated that they plan to reintroduce universal disenfranchisement for prisoners.
I see the 'lottery' aspect (as you've described it) as simply a consequence of offending. However there are obvious compromise positions that could be reached.
Being tough or soft on crime has nothing to do with enfranchisement of various groups in a democracy.
Am I happy that there might be some new sources of right-wing votes that comes with democratic enfranchisement of new groups? No. I do not have to be pleased about that. That's inevitable. I'll get over it anyway. You never know, they could surprise you.
However in the spirit of democracy, it is necessary to give voice to more crops of groups that might be affected by any policies by any political parties led by any politician.
A civic society that is afforded more democratic rights and more say in things is a civilised society.
And that is what matters to me. It is not worth enduring a society that would deprive others of rights and a say in things. That is not a way to progress things.
I see it as simple as if the state has the power to imprison you then you should have the ability to vote for those who decide the extent of that power and how it is enforced.
The three strikes law is a perfect example of disproportionate impact invoked by politicians that impacts directly on people in or having previously been in prison.
Also many prisoners have not been convicted of anything and will be found innocent or cases will fall over.
The bit I read was that RUCs might be about $1000/yr plus charging costs. Clean car rebate also gone. Petrol for most users is maybe $2000 – $3000/yr so the vehicle types are now much more even. Do we expect EV sales to plummet?
I drive an electric van belonging to a not-for-profit group, distributing produce around a 165km "loop" in Southland. We chose electric because the lower fuel costs were within the scope of what we could manage, financially.
I have thoughts about Simeon and his backward-thinking mates, that are not generous.
Do you think EVs should be exempt from paying, firstly, for the roads they drive on and secondly, ACC levies (which are currently charged at 6c per litre of fuel).
It's only irksome in light of the relatively free ride heavy trucks get. Tractors too. As well, the cessation of incentives to buy vehicles that don't burn fossil fuels is annoying. I think privileging electric vehicles for a longer period would have benefitted us all and the loss of income for the Government a small price to pay for behaviour change.
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 in collaboration with members from our Skeptical Science team. You can submit claims you think need checking via the tipline. Is Antarctica gaining land ice? ...
Images of US students (and others) protesting and setting up tent cities on US university campuses have been broadcast world wide and clearly demonstrate the growing rifts in US society caused by US policy toward Israel and Israel’s prosecution of … Continue reading → ...
Barrie Saunders writes – Dear Paul As the new Minister of Media and Communications, you will be inundated with heaps of free advice and special pleading, all in the national interest of course. For what it’s worth here is my assessment: Traditional broadcasting free to air content through ...
Many criticisms are being made of the Government’s Fast Track Approvals Bill, including by this writer. But as with everything in politics, every story has two sides, and both deserve attention. It’s important to understand what the Government is trying to achieve and its arguments for such a bold reform. ...
Peter Dunne writes – The great nineteenth British Prime Minister, William Gladstone, once observed that “the first essential for a Prime Minister is to be a good butcher.” When a later British Prime Minister, Harold Macmillan, sacked a third of his Cabinet in July 1962, in what became ...
Ele Ludemann writes – New Zealanders had the OECD’s second highest tax increase last year: New Zealanders faced the second-biggest tax raises in the developed world last year, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) says. The intergovernmental agency said the average change in personal income tax ...
We all know something’s not right with our elections. The spread of misinformation, people being targeted with soundbites and emotional triggers that ignore the facts, even the truth, and influence their votes.The use of technology to produce deep fakes. How can you tell if something is real or not? Can ...
This video includes conclusions of the creator climate scientist Dr. Simon Clark. It is presented to our readers as an informed perspective. Please see video description for references (if any). This year you will be lied to! Simon Clark helps prebunk some misleading statements you'll hear about climate. The video includes ...
It is all very well cutting the backrooms of public agencies but it may compromise the frontlines. One of the frustrations of the Productivity Commission’s 2017 review of universities is that while it observed that their non-academic staff were increasing faster than their academic staff, it did not bother to ...
Buzz from the Beehive Two speeches delivered by Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters at Anzac Day ceremonies in Turkey are the only new posts on the government’s official website since the PM announced his Cabinet shake-up. In one of the speeches, Peters stated the obvious: we live in a troubled ...
1. Which of these would you not expect to read in The Waikato Invader?a. Luxon is here to do business, don’t you worry about thatb. Mr KPI expects results, and you better believe itc. This decisive man of action is getting me all hot and excitedd. Melissa Lee is how ...
…it has a restricted jurisdiction which must not be abused: it is not an inquisitionNOTE – this article was published before the High Court ruled that Karen Chhour does not have to appear before the Waitangi Tribunal Gary Judd writes – The High Court ...
Lindsay Mitchell writes – One of reasons Oranga Tamariki exists is to prevent child neglect. But could the organisation itself be guilty of the same?Oranga Tamariki’s statistics show a decrease in the number and age of children in care. “There are less children ...
David Farrar writes: Graeme Edgeler wrote in 2017: In the first five years after three strikes came into effect 5248 offenders received a ‘first strike’ (that is, a “stage-1 conviction” under the three strikes sentencing regime), and 68 offenders received a ‘second strike’. In the five years prior to ...
Bryce Edwards writes – Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has surprised everyone with his ruthlessness in sacking two of his ministers from their crucial portfolios. Removing ministers for poor performance after only five months in the job just doesn’t normally happen in politics. That’s refreshing and will be extremely ...
TL;DR: These are the six things that stood out to me in news and commentary on Aotearoa-NZ’s political economy in the two days to 6:06am on Thursday, April 25:Politics: PM Christopher Luxon has set up a dual standard for ministerial competence by demoting two National Cabinet ministers while leaving also-struggling ...
Hi,Today I mainly want to share some of your thoughts about the recent piece I wrote about success and failure, and the forces that seemingly guide our lives. But first, a quick bit of housekeeping: I am doing a Webworm popup in Los Angeles on Saturday May 11 at 2pm. ...
It is hard to see what Melissa Lee might have done to “save” the media. National went into the election with no public media policy and appears not to have developed one subsequently. Lee claimed that she had prepared a policy paper before the election but it had been decided ...
Open access notablesIce acceleration and rotation in the Greenland Ice Sheet interior in recent decades, Løkkegaard et al., Communications Earth & Environment:In the past two decades, mass loss from the Greenland ice sheet has accelerated, partly due to the speedup of glaciers. However, uncertainty in speed derived from satellite products ...
Buzz from the Beehive A statement from Children’s Minister Karen Chhour – yet to be posted on the Government’s official website – arrived in Point of Order’s email in-tray last night. It welcomes the High Court ruling on whether the Waitangi Tribunal can demand she appear before it. It does ...
Mr Bombastic:Ironically, the media the academic experts wanted is, in many ways, the media they got. In place of the tyrannical editors of yesteryear, advancing without fear or favour the interests of the ruling class; the New Zealand news media of today boasts a troop of enlightened journalists dedicated to ...
It's hard times try to make a livingYou wake up every morning in the unforgivingOut there somewhere in the cityThere's people living lives without mercy or pityI feel good, yeah I'm feeling fineI feel better then I have for the longest timeI think these pills have been good for meI ...
In 1974, the US Supreme Court issued its decision in United States v. Nixon, finding that the President was not a King, but was subject to the law and was required to turn over the evidence of his wrongdoing to the courts. It was a landmark decision for the rule ...
Every day now just seems to bring in more fresh meat for the grinder.In their relentlessly ideological drive to cut back on the “excessive bloat” (as they see it) of the previous Labour-led government, on the mountains of evidence accumulated in such a short period of time do not ...
This is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections by Megan Valére SosouMarket gardening site of the Itchèléré de Itagui agricultural cooperative in Dassa-Zoumè (Image credit: Megan Valère Sossou) For the residents of Dassa-Zoumè, a city in the West African country of Benin, choosing between drinking water and having enough ...
Buzz from the Beehive Melissa Lee – as may be discerned from the screenshot above – has not been demoted for doing something seriously wrong as Minister of ...
Morning in London Mother hugs beloved daughter outside the converted shoe factory in which she is living.Afternoon in London Travelling writer takes himself and his wrist down to A&E, just to be sure. Read more ...
Mike Grimshaw writes – The recent announcement of the University Advisory Group, chaired by Sir Peter Gluckman, makes very clear where the Government’s focus and priorities lie. The remit of the Advisory Group is that Group members will consider challenges and opportunities for improvement in the university sector including: ...
Eric Crampton writes – The Reserve Bank of New Zealand desperately wants to find reasons to have workstreams in climate change. It makes little sense. They’ve run another stress test on the banks looking to see if they could find a prudential regulation case. They couldn’t. They ...
Rob MacCullough writes – Pundits from the left and the right are arguing that National’s Fast Track Bill that is designed to speed up infrastructure decisions could end up becoming mired in a cesspool of corruption. Political commentator ...
Looking at the headlines this morning it’s hard to feel anything other than pessimistic about the future of humanity.Note that I’m not speaking about the future of mankind, but the survival of our humanity. The values that we believe in seem to be ebbing away, by the day.Perhaps every generation ...
Swabbing mixed breed baby chicks to test for avian influenzaUh oh. Bird flu – often deadly to humans – is not only being transmitted from infected birds to dairy cows, but is now travelling between dairy cows. As of last Friday, Bloomberg News reports, there were 32 American dairy herds ...
On February 14, 2023 we announced our Rebuttal Update Project. This included an ask for feedback about the added "At a glance" section in the updated basic rebuttal versions. This weekly blog post series highlights this new section of one of the updated basic rebuttal versions and serves as a ...
What is it with the mining industry? Its not enough for them to pillage the earth - they apparently can't even be bothered getting resource consent to do so: The proponent behind a major mine near the Clutha River had already been undertaking activity in the area without a ...
Photo # 1 I am a huge fan of Singapore’s approach to housing, as described here two years ago by copying and pasting from The ConversationWhat Singapore has that Australia does not is a public housing developer, the Housing Development Board, which puts new dwellings on public and reclaimed land, ...
Buzz from the Beehive Reactions to news of the government’s readiness to make urgent changes to “the resource management system” through a Bill to amend the Resource Management Act (RMA) suggest a balanced approach is being taken. The Taxpayers’ Union says the proposed changes don’t go far enough. Greenpeace says ...
I’m starting to wonder if Anna Burns-Francis might be the best political interviewer we’ve got. That might sound unlikely to you, it came as a bit of a surprise to me.Jack Tame can be excellent, but has some pretty average days. I like Rebecca Wright on Newshub, she asks good ...
Chris Trotter writes – Willie Jackson is said to be planning a “media summit” to discuss “the state of the media and how to protect Fourth Estate Journalism”. Not only does the Editor of The Daily Blog, Martyn Bradbury, think this is a good idea, but he has also ...
Graeme Edgeler writes – This morning [April 21], the Wellington High Court is hearing a judicial review brought by Hon. Karen Chhour, the Minister for Children, against a decision of the Waitangi Tribunal. This is unusual, judicial reviews are much more likely to brought against ministers, rather than ...
Both of Parliament’s watchdogs have now ripped into the Government’s Fast-track Approvals Bill. Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāMy pick of the six newsey things to know from Aotearoa’s political economy and beyond on the morning of Tuesday, April 23 are:The Lead: The Auditor General,John Ryan, has joined the ...
This is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections by Sarah SpengemanPeople wait to board an electric bus in Pune, India. (Image credit: courtesy of ITDP) Public transportation riders in Pune, India, love the city’s new electric buses so much they will actually skip an older diesel bus that ...
The infrastructure industry yesterday issued a “hurry up” message to the Government, telling it to get cracking on developing a pipeline of infrastructure projects.The hiatus around the change of Government has seen some major projects cancelled and others delayed, and there is uncertainty about what will happen with the new ...
Hi,Over the weekend I revisited a podcast I really adore, Dead Eyes. It’s about a guy who got fired from Band of Brothers over two decades ago because Tom Hanks said he had “dead eyes”.If you don’t recall — 2001’s Band of Brothers was part of the emerging trend of ...
Buzz from the Beehive The 180 or so recipients of letters from the Government telling them how to submit infrastructure projects for “fast track” consideration includes some whose project applications previously have been rejected by the courts. News media were quick to feature these in their reports after RMA Reform Minister Chris ...
It would not be a desirable way to start your holiday by breaking your back, your head, or your wrist, but on our first hour in Singapore I gave it a try.We were chatting, last week, before we started a meeting of Hazel’s Enviro Trust, about the things that can ...
Calling all journalists, academics, planners, lawyers, political activists, environmentalists, and other members of the public who believe that the relationships between vested interests and politicians need to be scrutinised. We need to work together to make sure that the new Fast-Track Approvals Bill – currently being pushed through by the ...
Feel worried. Shane Jones and a couple of his Cabinet colleagues are about to be granted the power to override any and all objections to projects like dams, mines, roads etc even if: said projects will harm biodiversity, increase global warming and cause other environmental harms, and even if ...
Bryce Edwards writes- The ability of the private sector to quickly establish major new projects making use of the urban and natural environment is to be supercharged by the new National-led Government. Yesterday it introduced to Parliament one of its most significant reforms, the Fast Track Approvals Bill. ...
Michael Bassett writes – If you think there is a move afoot by the radical Maori fringe of New Zealand society to create a parallel system of government to the one that we elect at our triennial elections, you aren’t wrong. Over the last few days we have ...
Without a corresponding drop in interest rates, it’s doubtful any changes to the CCCFA will unleash a massive rush of home buyers. Photo: Lynn GrievesonTL;DR: The six things that stood out to me in Aotearoa’s political economy around housing, poverty and climate on Monday, April 22 included:The Government making a ...
Sunday was a lazy day. I started watching Jack Tame on Q&A, the interviews are usually good for something to write about. Saying the things that the politicians won’t, but are quite possibly thinking. Things that are true and need to be extracted from between the lines.As you might know ...
In our Weekly Roundup last week we covered news from Auckland Transport that the WX1 Western Express is going to get an upgrade next year with double decker electric buses. As part of the announcement, AT also said “Since we introduced the WX1 Western Express last November we have seen ...
TL;DR: The six key events to watch in Aotearoa-NZ’s political economy in the week to April 29 include:PM Christopher Luxon is scheduled to hold a post-Cabinet news conference at 4 pm today. Stats NZ releases its statutory report on Census 2023 tomorrow.Finance Minister Nicola Willis delivers a pre-Budget speech at ...
A listing of 29 news and opinion articles we found interesting and shared on social media during the past week: Sun, April 14, 2024 thru Sat, April 20, 2024. Story of the week Our story of the week hinges on these words from the abstract of a fresh academic ...
The ability of the private sector to quickly establish major new projects making use of the urban and natural environment is to be supercharged by the new National-led Government. Yesterday it introduced to Parliament one of its most significant reforms, the Fast Track Approvals Bill. The Government says this will ...
This is a column to say thank you. So many of have been in touch since Mum died to say so many kind and thoughtful things. You’re wonderful, all of you. You’ve asked how we’re doing, how Dad’s doing. A little more realisation each day, of the irretrievable finality of ...
Identifying the engine type in your car is crucial for various reasons, including maintenance, repairs, and performance upgrades. Knowing the specific engine model allows you to access detailed technical information, locate compatible parts, and make informed decisions about modifications. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a step-by-step approach to ...
Introduction: The allure of racing is undeniable. The thrill of speed, the roar of engines, and the exhilaration of competition all contribute to the allure of this adrenaline-driven sport. For those who yearn to experience the pinnacle of racing, becoming a race car driver is the ultimate dream. However, the ...
Introduction Automobiles have become ubiquitous in modern society, serving as a primary mode of transportation and a symbol of economic growth and personal mobility. With countless vehicles traversing roads and highways worldwide, it begs the question: how many cars are there in the world? Determining the precise number is a ...
Maintaining a safe and reliable vehicle requires regular inspections. Whether it’s a routine maintenance checkup or a safety inspection, knowing how long the process will take can help you plan your day accordingly. This article delves into the factors that influence the duration of a car inspection and provides an ...
Mazda Motor Corporation, commonly known as Mazda, is a Japanese multinational automaker headquartered in Fuchu, Aki District, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. The company was founded in 1920 as the Toyo Cork Kogyo Co., Ltd., and began producing vehicles in 1931. Mazda is primarily known for its production of passenger cars, but ...
Your car battery is an essential component that provides power to start your engine, operate your electrical systems, and store energy. Over time, batteries can weaken and lose their ability to hold a charge, which can lead to starting problems, power failures, and other issues. Replacing your battery before it ...
In most states, you cannot register a car without a valid driver’s license. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. Exceptions to the RuleIf you are under 18 years old: In some states, you can register a car in your name even if you do not ...
Mazda, a Japanese automotive manufacturer with a rich history of innovation and engineering excellence, has emerged as a formidable player in the global car market. Known for its reputation of producing high-quality, fuel-efficient, and driver-oriented vehicles, Mazda has consistently garnered praise from industry experts and consumers alike. In this article, ...
Struts are an essential part of a car’s suspension system. They are responsible for supporting the weight of the car and damping the oscillations of the springs. Struts are typically made of steel or aluminum and are filled with hydraulic fluid. How Do Struts Work? Struts work by transferring the ...
Car registration is a mandatory process that all vehicle owners must complete annually. This process involves registering your car with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and paying an associated fee. The registration process ensures that your vehicle is properly licensed and insured, and helps law enforcement and other authorities ...
Zoom is a video conferencing service that allows you to share your screen, webcam, and audio with other participants. In addition to sharing your own audio, you can also share the audio from your computer with other participants. This can be useful for playing music, sharing presentations with audio, or ...
Building your own computer can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to get a high-performance machine tailored to your specific needs. However, it also requires careful planning and execution, and one of the most important factors to consider is the time it will take. The exact time it takes to ...
Te Pāti Māori are demanding the New Zealand Government support an international independent investigation into mass graves that have been uncovered at two hospitals on the Gaza strip, following weeks of assault by Israeli troops. Among the 392 bodies that have been recovered, are children and elderly civilians. Many of ...
Our two-tiered system for veterans’ support is out of step with our closest partners, and all parties in Parliament should work together to fix it, Labour veterans’ affairs spokesperson Greg O’Connor said. ...
Stripping two Ministers of their portfolios just six months into the job shows Christopher Luxon’s management style is lacking, Labour Leader Chris Hipkins said. ...
Tonight’s court decision to overturn the summons of the Children’s Minister has enabled the Crown to continue making decisions about Māori without evidence, says Te Pāti Māori spokesperson for Children, Mariameno Kapa-Kingi. “The judicial system has this evening told the nation that this government can do whatever they want when ...
It appears Nicola Willis is about to pull the rug out from under the feet of local communities still dealing with the aftermath of last year’s severe weather, and local councils relying on funding to build back from these disasters. ...
The Government is making short-sighted changes to the Resource Management Act (RMA) that will take away environmental protection in favour of short-term profits, Labour’s environment spokesperson Rachel Brooking said today. ...
Labour welcomes the release of the report into the North Island weather events and looks forward to working with the Government to ensure that New Zealand is as prepared as it can be for the next natural disaster. ...
The Labour Party has called for the New Zealand Government to recognise Palestine, as a material step towards progressing the two-State solution needed to achieve a lasting peace in the region. ...
Some of our country’s most important work, stopping the sexual exploitation of children and violent extremism could go along with staff on the frontline at ports and airports. ...
The Government’s Fast Track Approvals Bill will give projects such as new coal mines a ‘get out of jail free’ card to wreak havoc on the environment, Labour Leader Chris Hipkins said today. ...
The government's decision to reintroduce Three Strikes is a destructive and ineffective piece of law-making that will only exacerbate an inherently biased and racist criminal justice system, said Te Pāti Māori Justice Spokesperson, Tākuta Ferris, today. During the time Three Strikes was in place in Aotearoa, Māori and Pasifika received ...
Cuts to frontline hospital staff are not only a broken election promise, it shows the reckless tax cuts have well and truly hit the frontline of the health system, says Labour Health spokesperson Ayesha Verrall. ...
The Green Party has joined the call for public submissions on the fast-track legislation to be extended after the Ombudsman forced the Government to release the list of organisations invited to apply just hours before submissions close. ...
New Zealand’s good work at reducing climate emissions for three years in a row will be undone by the National government’s lack of ambition and scrapping programmes that were making a difference, Labour Party climate spokesperson Megan Woods said today. ...
More essential jobs could be on the chopping block, this time Ministry of Education staff on the school lunches team are set to find out whether they're in line to lose their jobs. ...
Te Pāti Māori is disgusted at the confirmation that hundreds are set to lose their jobs at Oranga Tamariki, and the disestablishment of the Treaty Response Unit. “This act of absolute carelessness and out of touch decision making is committing tamariki to state abuse.” Said Te Pāti Māori Oranga Tamariki ...
The Government is trying to bring in a law that will allow Ministers to cut corners and kill off native species, Labour environment spokesperson Rachel Brooking said. ...
Cancelling urgently needed new Cook Strait ferries and hiking the cost of public transport for many Kiwis so that National can announce the prospect of another tunnel for Wellington is not making good choices, Labour Transport Spokesperson Tangi Utikere said. ...
A laundry list of additional costs for Tāmaki Makarau Auckland shows the Minister for the city is not delivering for the people who live there, says Labour Auckland Issues spokesperson Shanan Halbert. ...
Te Pāti Māori co-leader Rawiri Waititi, and Mema Paremata mō Tāmaki-Makaurau, Takutai Tarsh Kemp, will travel to the Gold Coast to strengthen ties with Māori in Australia next week (15-21 April). The visit, in the lead-up to the 9th Australian National Kapa haka Festival, will be an opportunity for both ...
The Green Party has today launched a step-by-step guide to help New Zealanders make their voice heard on the Government’s democracy dodging and anti-environment fast track legislation. ...
The National Government’s proposed changes to the Residential Tenancies Act will mean tenants can be turfed from their homes by landlords with little notice, Labour housing spokesperson Kieran McAnulty said. ...
Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson is calling on all parties to support a common-sense change that’s great for the planet and great for consumers after her member’s bill was drawn from the ballot today. ...
A significant milestone has been reached in the fight to strike an anti-Pasifika and unfair law from the country’s books after Teanau Tuiono’s members’ bill passed its first reading. ...
New Zealand has today missed the opportunity to uphold the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment, says James Shaw after his member’s bill was voted down in its first reading. ...
Today’s advice from the Climate Change Commission paints a sobering reality of the challenge we face in combating climate change, especially in light of recent Government policy announcements. ...
Minister for Disability Issues Penny Simmonds appears to have delayed a report back to Cabinet on the progress New Zealand is making against international obligations for disabled New Zealanders. ...
Hundreds of New Zealand families affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) will benefit from a new Government focus on prevention and treatment, says Health Minister Dr Shane Reti. “We know FASD is a leading cause of preventable intellectual and neurodevelopmental disability in New Zealand,” Dr Reti says. “Every day, ...
Regional Development Minister Shane Jones today attended the official opening of Kaikohe’s new $14.7 million sports complex. “The completion of the Kaikohe Multi Sports Complex is a fantastic achievement for the Far North,” Mr Jones says. “This facility not only fulfils a long-held dream for local athletes, but also creates ...
Foreign Minister Winston Peters’ engagements in Türkiye this week underlined the importance of diplomacy to meet growing global challenges. “Returning to the Gallipoli Peninsula to represent New Zealand at Anzac commemorations was a sombre reminder of the critical importance of diplomacy for de-escalating conflicts and easing tensions,” Mr Peters ...
Ambassador Millar, Burgemeester, Vandepitte, Excellencies, military representatives, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen – good morning and welcome to this sacred Anzac Day dawn service. It is an honour to be here on behalf of the Government and people of New Zealand at Buttes New British Cemetery, Polygon Wood – a deeply ...
Distinguished guests - It is an honour to return once again to this site which, as the resting place for so many of our war-dead, has become a sacred place for generations of New Zealanders. Our presence here and at the other special spaces of Gallipoli is made ...
Mai ia tawhiti pamamao, te moana nui a Kiwa, kua tae whakaiti mai matou, ki to koutou papa whenua. No koutou te tapuwae, no matou te tapuwae, kua honoa pumautia. Ko nga toa kua hinga nei, o te Waipounamu, o te Ika a Maui, he okioki tahi me o ...
Paul Goldsmith will take on responsibility for the Media and Communications portfolio, while Louise Upston will pick up the Disability Issues portfolio, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced today. “Our Government is relentlessly focused on getting New Zealand back on track. As issues change in prominence, I plan to adjust Ministerial ...
Recreational catch limits will be reduced in areas of Fiordland and the Chatham Islands to help keep those fisheries healthy and sustainable, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. The lower recreational daily catch limits for a range of finfish and shellfish species caught in the Fiordland Marine Area and ...
Energy Minister Simeon Brown has welcomed an important milestone in New Zealand’s hydrogen future, with the opening of the country’s first network of hydrogen refuelling stations in Wiri. “I want to congratulate the team at Hiringa Energy and its partners K one W one (K1W1), Mitsui & Co New Zealand ...
The coalition Government is delivering on its commitment to improve resource management laws and give greater certainty to consent applicants, with a Bill to amend the Resource Management Act (RMA) expected to be introduced to Parliament next month. RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop has today outlined the first RMA Amendment ...
Overseas models for regulating the oil and gas sector, including their decommissioning regimes, are being carefully scrutinised as a potential template for New Zealand’s own sector, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. The Coalition Government is focused on rebuilding investor confidence in New Zealand’s energy sector as it looks to strengthen ...
Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell has today released the Report of the Government Inquiry into the response to the North Island Severe Weather Events. “The report shows that New Zealand’s emergency management system is not fit-for-purpose and there are some significant gaps we need to address,” Mr Mitchell ...
Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith is today travelling to Europe where he’ll update the United Nations Human Rights Council on the Government’s work to restore law and order. “Attending the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva provides us with an opportunity to present New Zealand’s human rights progress, priorities, and challenges, while ...
Associate Agriculture Minister, Mark Patterson, formally reopened the world’s largest wool processing facility today in Awatoto, Napier, following a $50 million rebuild and refurbishment project. “The reopening of this facility will significantly lift the economic opportunities available to New Zealand’s wool sector, which already accounts for 20 per cent of ...
Hon Andrew Bayly, Minister for Small Business and Manufacturing At the Southland Otago Regional Engineering Collective (SOREC) Summit, 18 April, Dunedin Ngā mihi nui, Ko Andrew Bayly aho, Ko Whanganui aho Good Afternoon and thank you for inviting me to open your summit today. I am delighted ...
The Government is delivering on its commitment to bring back the Three Strikes legislation, Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee announced today. “Our Government is committed to restoring law and order and enforcing appropriate consequences on criminals. We are making it clear that repeat serious violent or sexual offending is not ...
Foreign Minister Winston Peters has today announced four new diplomatic appointments for New Zealand’s overseas missions. “Our diplomats have a vital role in maintaining and protecting New Zealand’s interests around the world,” Mr Peters says. “I am pleased to announce the appointment of these senior diplomats from the ...
New Zealand is contributing NZ$7 million to support communities affected by severe food insecurity and other urgent humanitarian needs in Ethiopia and Somalia, Foreign Minister Rt Hon Winston Peters announced today. “Over 21 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance across Ethiopia, with a further 6.9 million people ...
Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Paul Goldsmith is congratulating Mataaho Collective for winning the Golden Lion for best participant in the main exhibition at the Venice Biennale. "Congratulations to the Mataaho Collective for winning one of the world's most prestigious art prizes at the Venice Biennale. “It is good ...
The Government is reforming financial services to improve access to home loans and other lending, and strengthen customer protections, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly and Housing Minister Chris Bishop announced today. “Our coalition Government is committed to rebuilding the economy and making life simpler by cutting red tape. We are ...
“China remains a strong commercial opportunity for Kiwi exporters as Chinese businesses and consumers continue to value our high-quality safe produce,” Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says. Mr McClay has returned to New Zealand following visits to Beijing, Harbin and Shanghai where he met ministers, governors and mayors and engaged in trade and agricultural events with the New ...
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has completed a successful trip to Singapore, Thailand and the Philippines, deepening relationships and capitalising on opportunities. Mr Luxon was accompanied by a business delegation and says the choice of countries represents the priority the New Zealand Government places on South East Asia, and our relationships in ...
New Zealand is demonstrating its commitment to reducing global greenhouse emissions, and supporting clean energy transition in South East Asia, through a contribution of NZ$41 million (US$25 million) in climate finance to the Asian Development Bank (ADB)-led Energy Transition Mechanism (ETM). Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Climate Change Minister Simon Watts announced ...
The Government is today releasing a list of organisations who received letters about the Fast-track applications process, says RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop. “Recently Ministers and agencies have received a series of OIA requests for a list of organisations to whom I wrote with information on applying to have a ...
Attorney-General Judith Collins today announced the appointment of Wellington Barrister David Jonathan Boldt as a Judge of the High Court, and the Honourable Justice Matthew Palmer as a Judge of the Court of Appeal. Justice Boldt graduated with an LLB from Victoria University of Wellington in 1990, and also holds ...
Education Minister Erica Stanford will lead the New Zealand delegation at the 2024 International Summit on the Teaching Profession (ISTP) held in Singapore. The delegation includes representatives from the Post Primary Teachers’ Association (PPTA) Te Wehengarua and the New Zealand Educational Institute (NZEI) Te Riu Roa. The summit is co-hosted ...
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Imagining Golriz explaining herself to her co-leaders yesterday:
"I felt I needed to be an authentic left-winger. Property is theft."
J: "Greed is good." M: "That's actually rightist." J: "Then how come Labour have been doing it since the mid-'80s?" M: "That's just neoliberalism. Simulation works real well in politics." J: "Tell me about it. Why do you think I had to do a decade in the London corporate scene, not to mention wearing short back & sides all the time?"
M: "Just copy the establishment. And make sure you help yourself – when Maoris went to the Chathams & helped themselves to all those Moriori slaves, they did it in an English sailing ship. They didn't use a waka. Fast learners."
G: "Yeah, so I went into up-market fashionista places & helped myself. Took each item into a suburb where the poor & needy live, found one the right shape & size & told her I don't need this garment any more but would only give it to her if she absolutely needed it a they always said "Oh, absolutely!" so the strategy worked really well."
J: "Clever. The Robin Hood ethos has worked for centuries." M: "Authentic left-wing praxis! So you're intending to do a Metiria & tell the truth?" G: "Damn right I am!"
I imagine it less as a discussion about left wing praxis, and more James gently banging his head against a desk and regretting every life decision he made to get him to this point.
The poor guy just can't catch a break. All the while, the party is imploding around him under the weight of its own self-righteousness and general political naivete.
James has a great deal more depth to him than your comments indicate you enjoy, Res. He's caught plenty of breaks in his time as Green leader and has attracted a spectacularly good team which has, with few exceptions, functioned exceptionally well over the period of his leadership, most notably, leaving the Opposition side of the House and gaining influence in Government – hardly a fail, for the party, or for James. This presently-unfolding situation will be testing all involved, but your glee at their discomfort isn't going to affect them in the slightest.
I think you may have misinterpreted my comment.
I think James has been an incredibly effective leader and is a key reason the party has been able to survive a couple of incredibly tough electoral cycles.
I also believe the latest cohort of MPs is the strongest and most capable the party has ever had.
However, I worry the Greens have a long-term problem around not having robust or effective enough processes for dealing with MPs that either underperform or waste the political capital so many volunteers have spent so long building up.
There's far too many Metirias, Elizabeths, Riccardos and Golriz's and not enough Chloes or Te Anaus.
We also have to bear in mind the main driver of the Greens share of the vote is people drifting left from Labour, or abandoning them when they inevitably tack towards tepid incrementalism.
As such, the fact the party currently has 15 MPs is more down to circumstance than solid or effective political strategy.
"I also believe the latest cohort of MPs is the strongest and most capable the party has ever had."
.v.
"the party is imploding around him under the weight of its own self-righteousness and general political naivete."
Your 2 statements seem … at odds …
That's what makes being a Green Party supporter so damned difficult. I've never been so simultaneously hopeful, yet so anxious about the direction the party is going in.
Golriz will quickly resign and be replaced by Celia Wade-Brown. The worse part is that these are all such high-end luxury stores that does not fit with the Greens social image so whether the charges are proven or not she has to go.
The Green Party will move on-its a great time in the electoral cycle for this to happen….in 3 years nobody will remember.
"…its a great time in the electoral cycle for this to happen….in 3 years nobody will remember."
That is actually a very good point.
Wut?
They've lost two MPs via controversy in a 12 month period, which compared to other parties and MMP history seems relatively normal.
Meanwhile, as you have agreed, they have a very strong caucus currently.
What are you on about with the imploding?
2 MPs out of a caucus of at most, 15 after the last election. From a party that prides itself on being above the fray.
Given the size of caucus and uphill battle the party faces to get a clear, consistent message across in the face of cashed up, hard right government parties, I'd argue that one scandal is one too many.
We can't afford to fall into the trap Labour did and assume our support amongst certain chunks of the electorate is locked in forever.
The party prides itself on its ethical behaviour, quite correctly.
That doesn't inure it, or any party, from "out of party" behaviours by an individual MP, such as shopping, that might not meet the party's expectations.
To expect politicians to be perfect is unrealistic and I believe The Greens know this well.
In any case, we don't yet know for certain what has happened.
Question for you, Res: what was the other scandal you mention?
@Robert Guyton
I think it's perfectly reasonable to expect an MP to not commit petty crimes.
Or, if they're accused of committing said petty crimes, for them to either front up with a clear explanation or else resign before the allegations cause too much political damage.
Like Plutarch wrote: "Uxorem Caesaris tam suspicione quam crimine carere oportet"
So no other scandal then?
Have you considered there might be a reasonable explanation for not fronting up immediately?
Fairly high given the number of mp's?
dunno, I still remember the MMP era of Koopu and whole parties being formed by waka jumpers. Maybe add in timeline?
I mean if they lost 2 MPs every 12 months, I would agree. They've lost 5 MPs over 8 years. No-one would think that's great, but it's hardly the party imploding especially when we look at how they have recovered from the 2017 fallout. They have strong, stable co-leaders, and caucus is a mix of experienced MPs (including Ministerial experience), MPs gaining experience, and new incoming MPs. Looks good to me.
I'm not particularly bothered if Ghahraman leaves. Celia Wade Brown is next on the list, so there's another experienced politican coming in.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Party_lists_in_the_2023_New_Zealand_general_election
https://www.greens.org.nz/our_people
2017: 8 MPs
2020: 9 MPs
2023: 15 MPs
Definitly not an implosion, probably indicative of a need to look at candidate selection and support as the party and number of mp's grows.
Political life is a particulary brutal one especially when you advocate for minority causes and I suspect plenty of candidates are ill prepared. Perhaps more so coming from an activist background rather than a cut throat corporate background parties on the right prefer. They usually self destruct when their arsehole tendancies come to the surface.
maybe. Of the five controversial resignations since 2017, I think Kerekere is the only one that was unfit to be an MP.
Ghahraman has now resigned, the RNZ piece below is pretty good. I don't think the solution to bad behaviour from extreme stress is to only choose hardnut candidates, I think it's to change the culture of parliament and politics.
I'm sure all parties, including the Greens need to continually review their support of MPs. We're not the same country we were when Ghahraman became an MP either.
I think Steffan Browing also counts. Although he jumped before he was able to be pushed.
I definitely agree for the need to change our culture in Parliament in particular and our discourse around politics in general.
But we also have to deal with the political reality for us in the meantime. Parliament will continue to be extremely robust (read: toxic) and across the left, we need to ensure we select candidates that are able to withstand the hurly-burly of retail politicking in an environment that's inimical to our interests.
When it came to my list ranking at candidate conference, my rubric was always to pick who was likeliest to make their National/ACT party counterpart break out in sweat whenever they got asked a question in Parliament then went from there.
I don't think Browning does count, nothing particularly controversial about him leaving, he was no longer a good fit and he resigned.
That's why we have macho politics. As long as people want hardman politics that's what we will get.
I don't think that has much to do with Ghahraman though. Everyone has a breaking point given enough stress. You saw what Ardern looked like when she resigned. Politics destroys some people, the smart ones get out early because they can see it happening. We don't have to do politics like that.
As someone that was a delegate at candidate conferences over 3 or 4 election cycles, I definitely think the Greens need to seriously look at their candidate process.
We've thrown away a lot of talent in the name of building a caucus that reflects only a very narrow section of the party's base. Yet one that wields an outsized influence when it comes to list ranking time.
That was a wild time!
It's interesting how quickly the political landscape has crystalized into a (kind-of) equilibrium with between 5-7 parties depending on whether NZ First makes it in or not.
We haven't had a new party make it into Parliament since the Greens in 1999. And the history of parties created by defections is just as bad. The last one I can remember surviving the subsequent election was Mana back in 2011.
We also somehow seemed to avoided the fragmentation of our traditional broad-church parties into harder left or right organisations à la most of the EU.
If you think that taking the mickey out of… what is starting to look more and more like a very sad case Dennis Frank then you have failed.
Unlike the so-called experts who have weighed in thus far, here is one whose views I respect:
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/506807/public-speculation-will-continue-to-grow-until-golriz-ghahraman-speaks-out-about-shoplifting-allegations-legal-expert
It would seem that the choices on offer to the Greens over this case are not as simplistic as some would have us believe.
Good to see him advocating my take from several days back onsite here.
I don't condone shop lifting at all, but I seriously hope Golriz is getting support.
How come things haven't progressed from the police complaint in Wellington in October? How long do these things take?
At that stage it would have had a low priority. It was shortly after the election and there was a lot of stuff going on which might have involved the police.
I also know from personal experience: the police are reluctant to investigate matters which might concern politicians or persons linked to politicians. Admittedly my case was a long time ago but I doubt anything has changed.
How long do these things take?
A very long time indeed. Shoplifting is regarded as a very low-level crime, and will be right at the bottom of the internal police allocation of time.
Even in an open-and-shut case (which I'm not suggesting this one is – we still have no idea on Ghahraman's take on the situation) – with CTV footage and name/address of the offender supplied – it can take many months for the police to take action (if they ever do)
https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/crime/300901795/private-investigators-frustrated-with-police-response-to-alleged-commercial-theft
https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/crime/112624168/why-police-dont-investigate-some-crimes
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/crime/focus-more-theft-victims-speak-out-frustrated-over-police-inaction/XB4WKTC25L6MAUKINKOD24UL74/
I suspect the political dimension of the case (involving, as it does, a sitting MP), has rocketed this up the investigation priority queue.
that would have to be one of the better MSM pieces I've read on the situation, thanks.
If she is guilty, I hadn't considered that she might try to stay on against the wishes of the party. It won't affect the party much given they're not in government, but would be unfair on the next person on the list. I'd be surprised if she did that though.
Don't really know how it would work if she says she is not guilty and wants to stay on, and what the party would do.
I have however considered that she might be having a huge personal crisis and that working through that alongside the MP issues and their internal process might be why the party is taking its time before speaking publicly.
"Doing a Metiria" means telling the truth?
What's the world coming to??
A politician’s lips are moving and they are not lying???
Worth his salt, this guy:
"Salt said he believed the email, sent on July 10, 2023, came from a person associated with Sovereign Citizens, a growing group across Aotearoa that sociologist Paul Spoonley said posed a threat in its right wing extreme views that elected governments do not have legitimate authority."
https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/301039932/mayor-has-no-regrets-over-signing-off-email-go-f-yourself
Salt of the Earth, eh? Very trad. I see Stuff is featuring an old friend from the early Green Party, Steve Hart. I'd be disappointed if he really is in anthropogenic climate-change denial. Had a good old rave for a couple of hours with him last winter & don't recall him adopting that stance then.
The pandemic state threat to freedom of choice has split the old alt-Aotearoa scene wide open. Any complex system is vulnerable to such indeterminant shifts anytime, just needs a catalytic trigger. We survive by adapting, after the initial eye-roll.
As a constituent I am very impressed with our current Mayor – his communications to the community are great and a really breathe of fresh air after our previous incumbent.
I like his style.
I know it seems weird, but I would actually like to say something in support of the Greens.
I have been hearing the media going ballistic about why the Greens haven't fronted about the shoplifting allegations, and that their only response is that the matter is in the hands of the police.
But, actually, what more can the Greens say about the matter? They aren't qualified to determine matters of criminality. And, the police are the appropriate organisation to determine whether there is a case (or cases) to answer.
So, I think the media needs to STFU and leave things to the police to do their job.
It's good of you to express your support, tsmithfield.
Putting all the politics aside, I think the media should have its main concern to be be the mental health of Golriz rather than salacious media headlines.
Firstly, if these allegations are true, then it just seems weird behaviour not typical of someone thinking rationally. Secondly, the huge media pile-on must be extremely distressing for her, and can only be exacerbating any mental health issues she may have.
The last thing anyone would want to see is Golriz sinking into deep depression, or committing suicide or such. So, I think the Greens are doing the right thing by saying as little as possible and leaving it to the police.
The media disgust me sometimes.
It's looking more and more like a mental health issue and should be handled with compassion and care. – something I suspect the Greens are trying to do.
Considering her MS condition and the vile racist/misogyny she has been subjected to, it is not surprising she has [perhaps] had a breakdown of some sort. My heart goes out to her.
whatever is going on with her mental health or not, the stress of this situation will be not at all good for her body and the MS 🙁
I don't think it is at all appropriate to speculate on someone's health.
Currently we have allegation sin the media against an MP. Nothing more and nothing less. There has been no admission and no denial.
My brother in law is bipolar and has an addictive personality as well. He went through a shoplifting phase in his late teens/twenties which led to the diagnosis. He was stealing stuff he didn't need. It was very distressing for all concerned and took a long time and heavy duty drugs to bring his life under some semblance of control.
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/politics/golriz-ghahraman-resigns-from-parliament-after-allegations-of-shoplifting/TS2LRAYOV5FXFA4JVOEBJ4ZRQU/
Lets hope she gets all the support she needs in both the short term and the longer term.
this is pretty much my thinking too. Let the Greens sort out their internal process and attend to whatever needs attending to re Ghahraman's wellbeing. She's not doing any portfolio responsibility work atm. The police will do due process as well, and when they have, we will know more about the situation.
I don't think it's necessarily a mental health issue, apart from the huge stress of the situation. It could be of course, or if she did shoplift then it might be another reason. But agree either way that the MSM should calm down.
Meanwhile, the right wing shit stirrers are all in a frenzy in their toxic soup on twitter. I'm hoping Ghahraman is well protected from that and that someone else is screening her social media, phone and email.
Agree from personal experience. She must have been under enormous stress given what was happening to her body and the psychological effect of the abuse she was receiving. Stress can cause a person to behave in all sort of ways that are uncharacteristic of them.
Please stop with the speculation based on absolutely nothing but suspicion and right wing shit stirring.
that wasn't actually what I meant. What I meant was that the accusations becoming public and what has happened since then are hugely stressful in and of themselves, and that would have mental health impact on anyone.
I agree with James here that there's nothing useful or appropriate about trying to assign meaning and motive to alleged actions that we know very little about.
One way or another, a PR vacuum formed and this is now deepening & widening and turning into a PR nightmare for some and a PR wet dream for others. This hole draws in stupid speculation and ‘commentary’, as always and very predictably, that serves no other purpose than to damage, yet ironically, it is now starting to come from different sides too, it seems. Next thing we’ll hear is that Green MPs are not allowed to window-shop in certain places because it doesn’t befit their ‘social image’, FFS!
Or National Party MP's shop at Beds R Us.
100% agree. We have no understanding of the pressures brought by her previous life, and the new hostilities may have tipped her over the edge.
Theft is theft, though any reason for drawing this out may have other political dimensions. imo.
The links to DP seem greater than coincidence. So we wait.
Agreed.
In addition, the views of the Ponsonby shop owners have also been conveniently ignored by the media. They did not seek publicity and have given no interviews, despite intense pressure from the media. How very inconsiderate of them!
It is ironic that on this (alleged) crime story, the (alleged) victims don't seem to matter much.
Charter schools are back on the agenda and myths, propaganda and nonsense are along for the ride.
Those schools apparently are going to be free, not be restricted and stifled by rules and regulations.
So, a Government which thinks people running schools should have the freedom to make choices, and so do a better job, is in power. And their first big thing?
Take away freedom and choices, restrict, limit, stifle by telling schools mobile phones are banned? Or are we to have the insanity of Seymour's charter schools allowed to have mobile phones and ordinary state schools not? All overseen by the Minister of Regulation?
Nor required to teach an hour each of maths, reading and writing.
Dog's breakfast.
Untrained, unregistered teachers: another feature of those places.
Great opportunity for a Sovereign Citizens school!
Where exam results they don't like won't apply!
I think Charter Schools are similar to home schooling in that there will likely be a lot of variability depending on the quality of teaching etc, programs run etc.
So, in the case of home schooling, parents who are great at teaching and engaging their kids in education are likely to see great results whereas kids are unlikely to do well where parents are hopeless.
In both cases, an analytical study that looks only at the average results of these teaching methods will likely find no benefit, or even negative outcomes. But, that doesn't mean that well designed teaching and education programs in these settings can't work well.
There will be a lot of viability, tsmithfield, that's why accreditation's important. Parents are protected from poor quality schooling by assurances given by a certified agency, except where charter schools operate. If you buy eggs, you want to be protected from illness by a certification programme that is followed by all producers. If charter schools do not require certification in their teaching staff, how can parents be assured of basic quality of teaching?
Robert, I think the criticism of Charter Schools misses some important points.
I agree that most kids will likely best served by public schools for the reasons you give.
But, I know from my involvement on the board of Crossroads Youth with a Future that there are some children who simply do not engage with formal educatoin at all, and tend to drop out of school, or end up being expelled.
So, for such children, the standard cookie-cutter system does not work for them at all. That is where I think Charter type schools can work because they can be designed tackle directly the complex issues that prevent these kids from succeeding in standard education.
It also changes what we mean by "works". So, if these kids made zero progress in a standard learning environment, but some progress in a Charter School, then I guess it could be said that the programme "works" even if that does not show as such in a statistical study.
Yes, I understand that purpose-built schools have some advantages, tsmithfield; they are not an entirely bad idea 🙂
Question: does Crossroads Youth with a Future have certified teachers?
We don't deal with the education aspect. But we do have qualified youth workers.
One of our functions is to run a program called "Stay Real". This program is for kids who the schools are on the verge or expelling. basically/
The program starts with total acceptance of the kids, warts and all. It aims to help them realise that they have choices in life, and that their past doesn't have to define their future.
One of our youth workers actually came through our program. She now has a diploma in youth work. She is the first person in her family to have any qualification, or even have a job. So, a fantastic achievement for her.
That's good, tsmithfield; my son does something very similar.
Charter schools though, aim to educate, including standard NZ Curriculum material. At least, it is hoped they will do that.
Wanting to make a joke about the Liz Gunn School of Cookery, but won't.
Btw, tsmithfield, the schools you lable, "the standard cookie-cutter system" are not, in fact, that. They have built-in programmes and approaches that accommodate the varying needs of students, teachers, locations and communities.
Cookie cutter they are not.
Sure. But not all. And I don't think there is any talk of Charter Schools becoming main stream. They will always be niche, and cater for a few students only I expect.
Great to hear about your work at Crossroads. And I agree with you about the criticism of partnership/charter schools.
National's philosophy of individual choice and personal responsibility at its best:
Yes, we'll absolutely use the coercive power of the state to ban your kids from using their cell phones at school.
But hey, at least they'll be able to choose to smoke, and we've protected you from all that nasty governmental overreach.
And no, you're not allowed to point out the hypocrisy of this you filthy socialist peasant. New Zealander voted for change, so we have a mandate to do whatever we like without criticism. Learn to respect your betters.
/s
We already have private schools which are largely unregulated compared to state schools. I'm not a fan of private or charter schools, but it's not like all schools are currently bound by whatever curricular pronouncements the government make.
Are private schools required to employ only teachers who are certified conventionally?
The short answer is yes. The longer answer is that there are teachers across the spectrum of school types in NZ (Types of schools and year levels – Education in New Zealand) who are un-registered and who work under a Limited Authority to Teach (For Limited Authority to Teach :: Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand). There are also, at any one time, a number of teachers who are practicising but awaiting registration.
In the ECE sector, centres can employ a combination of registered and unregistered teachers, with the resulting combination being a factor in their funding.
That's right, David. So you might be able to tell me whether Charter Schools will be required to only hire registered teachers or Limited Authority teachers as conventional schools are. Perhaps you will also know how compliance to those requirements will be managed – ERO or no?
I would expect the 2024 partnership school model to be different from the 2014 model (a decade has passed, and unfortunately educational standards in NZ have continued to decline), but primarily in areas around student assessment.
The 2014 model was a contestable model, and placed strong accountability on the schools through a contract that was monitored by ERO. I would not expect that to change.
As to teacher registration, that was not a requirement in 2014 for partnership schools, however this report BIM-release-Partnership-Schools-Model-and-Options-for-the-Future.pdf (education.govt.nz) stated that "There is some use of non-registered teachers, although not usually for core subjects."
Interestingly, in the same report, the authors noted that the partnership schools all used the same curriculum as mainstream schools, ("although one of the schools opening in 2015 is developing an interesting combination of the Steiner approach and kaupapa Māori within the framework of the New Zealand Curriculum (NZC)"), and that the school day and year are similar to those of state schools.
I am involved in the education sector, although I have had no involvement with partnership schools. I saw enough in their previous tenure to support their reintroduction.
Good news…
Chalk one up for them suit-wearing short-haired Oz radical legislators!
This article from The Conversation goes quite a long way explaining America in 2024.
https://theconversation.com/is-america-enduring-a-slow-civil-war-jeff-sharlet-visits-trump-rallies-a-celebrity-megachurch-and-the-manosphere-to-find-out-203948?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Latest%20from%20The%20Conversation%20for%20January%2016%202024%20-%202849928893&utm_content=Latest%20from%20The%20Conversation%20for%20January%2016%202024%20-%202849928893+CID_cb46b49e8afafca0a45ce8e920c6a7f1&utm_source=campaign_monitor&utm_term=Is%20America%20enduring%20a%20slow%20civil%20war%20Jeff%20Sharlet%20visits%20Trump%20rallies%20a%20celebrity%20megachurch%20and%20the%20manosphere%20to%20find%20out
the lord will provide is a stance that recycles feudal subservience…
The writer can't see faith in Wilkerson?? Or morality? I see a typical christian. Obviously their faith is rewarded whenever the faithful donate them dollars.
But not a Christian who follows the teachings of Christ.
Sermon on the Mount anyone?
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%205-7&version=KJV
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/506825/golriz-ghahraman-resigns-from-parliament-after-shoplifting-allegations
There it is
Very sad.
There's a lot in that statement, but this should not be overlooked:
Ghahraman also thanked Scotties Boutique "for the kindness and empathy they have shown me", and asked for space and privacy so she could get better.
Respect to Scotties, and none at all to the reporters who complained that they didn't want to talk about it.
Good. Well-handled by her in the fraught circumstances…
Golriz resigns, no other call to make.
Wish her full recovery.
Yep, done the right thing
very good statements too. I'm glad they took the time to get this right.
The bloodhounds are still running around and this won’t be the end of it.
Time to leave her out of it but focus on why this happened, where were her support structure, who else was around but didn't help etc
Someone dropped the ball big time
Oh, that's the new line of attack is it?
Pathetic.
There it is
What makes you think that?
I'm assuming she's on meds for her illness, I'm assuming those meds have an effect on mental health
What were the supports put in place for her
Where were her friends, supporters etc
I'd be very surprised if there were only these 3 incidents and, given the increased spotlight on MPs mental health, why was no one checking up on her
when you change your email address TS thinks you are new commenter and holds the comment back for manual approval. Please pick one email address and stick to it.
No one looking out for her?
No friends, supporters etc
She's on meds and has a major illness and no one's checking up on her?
again, what makes you think that is the situation?
At the moment theres three instances of, alleged, shoplifting which means theres likely more
Obviously whatever was put in place wasn't working or she was left to her own devices
What a Goodfellow you are!
ChatGTP – find me an alias that won't startle the silly Left wingers.
Very sad to hear that is the case. Definitely the right decision, but a great loss to parliament.
what a massive disappointment Golriz Ghahraman turned out to be. I hoped she could go all the way in politics, but she has proved unable to make the transition from activist to MP and clearly her mental health is in tatters.
There does seem to be a case to be made for a certain psychological fragility amongst all these MPs whose previous job experience has largely been in the third sector. Their previous experience seems to leave them unprepared/unsuitable to the demands made of them as MPs.
I am not sure what this says more about – the nature of parliament or the nature of the candidates, but both Labour and Greens have to think about it seriously because the third sector provides the vast majority of their candidates these days.
Anyway, best of luck to her and I hope she gets the rest/rehab she needs to make a full recovery. Who is the next batter up?
it's the nature of parliament, but also the nature of politics in NZ.
She was a refugee as a child, she's experienced trauma and seems to have ongoing affects from that, she has a major physical illness that has a pattern of relapses and remissions, she works in a very high stress job, including during a once in a lifetime global health crisis (hardly anyone is talking about the mental health impact of that), she's been subjected to the worst misogyny and racism as well as sustained attacks from the right on social media and probably via Dirty Politics.
This doesn't mean she hasn't made mistakes (imo she has, and there is a political naivety but probably arrogance as well running through that). It means that no-one's mental health is going to be unaffected by all that. Women, brown women in particular, cop a kind of political abuse that others don't.
There's a lot we could do to change parliament and the political culture.
That's a long way to fall. There will have been tears. I expect there is support for her in place now. It's a tragic story.
I would hope it's the nature of parliament, and add into the mix the appalling behaviour of our media and certain factions of the general public, especially towards female MPs, which is only going to get worse.
Do we really want all our candidates to be professional politicians with no life experience, or areas of true specialty, and ability to relate to specific sector of our society? In Golriz's case, Human rights and a first hand understanding of being a refugee and having a disability. Is it any wonder that, with the exceptions of her and Mojo Mathis, we've never had MPs with (openly acknowledged) disabilities? Not because they're not capable of running or doing the job, but honestly, who would put up with all this crap?
I don't want to see more candidates who know nothing except for politics and law. Of course any candidate goes into this being aware of the pressures involved, but there does seem to be a reasonable amount of quitting on mental health grounds (including a certain Nat leader).
So the real question is, how can parliament stop being so toxic?
Media have a huge role to play here.
If they didn’t republish every racist, misogynistic tweet or press release every one would be the better for it.
A dispassionate summation. It points to yet another inbuilt advantage the right wing and the right of the left wing have because their candidates mostly come from elite, privileged, establishment backgrounds, and if not are fundamentalists supported by the elite, privileged establishment.
Those robust, entitled influences didn't help Todd Muller or Nikki Kaye who both melted under very little pressure. But they did help Sam Uffindel who learned how to dominate others with threats and violence from a young age.
With 65% counted votes the main players in Iowa are
Trump 50.6%
De Santis 21.4%
Haley 19.7%
If De Santis or Haley pulled out early or maybe did a deal on a joint ticket – if I win you can be VP then it might be more interesting. May be too early but I guess time will tell.
They would both pull out immediately if they had any sense. This is a replay of 2016, when Trump led from the very beginning, and never relinquished his lead. The corporate media kept repeating that a "sensible" Republican candidate would eventually see off the upstart.
Unfortunately, the "sensible" candidates were "Low Energy" Jeb Bush, "Little Marco" Rubio, and most disturbing of all, Lyin' Ted…
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EahWONRB6xM
We haven't an actual Labour media release on anything since December 13th.
Could someone please wake the fuck up.
https://www.labour.org.nz/news-labour_calls_on_govt_to_join_case_against_israel is the latest (10 January).
Lol at all the….. marginalized status-seekers.
Abstract
Why are some people motivated to circulate hostile political information? While prior studies have focused on partisan motivations, we demonstrate that some individuals circulate hostile rumors because they wish to unleash chaos to “burn down” the entire political order in the hope they gain status in the process. To understand this psychology, we theorize and measure a novel psychological state, the Need for Chaos, emerging in an interplay of social marginalization and status-oriented personalities.
[…]
We outline a theoretical framework about an overlooked psychological strategy for acquiring social status—the incitement of chaos—and demonstrate the relevance of this strategy for contemporary politics. We build on research showing that status-oriented personality traits combined with social rejection can push people toward an escalation of aggressive motivations (Krizan and Johar Reference Krizan and Johar2015; Twenge and Campbell Reference Twenge and Campbell2003). We argue that such motivations, when sufficiently strong, take root as a general destructive mindset. Next, we develop and validate the novel Need for Chaos scale to measure this mindset. Across eight well-powered studies (including representative studies of the U.S. population), we find evidence that the Need for Chaos emerges in an interplay between status-oriented personality traits and social contexts of real and perceived marginalization and is a strong predictor of willingness to share hostile political rumors, over and beyond partisanship. Overall, our findings imply that a challenge facing modern society is the existence of marginalized status-seekers who wish to incite chaos by spreading hostile rumors.
https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/american-political-science-review/article/need-for-chaos-and-motivations-to-share-hostile-political-rumors/7E50529B41998816383F5790B6E0545A
I can hardly believe what I'm hearing /sarc
"Goldsmith ruled out action on some recommendations, including:
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/506819/government-rejects-four-voting-changes-as-review-lands
I support lowering it to 16 and enfranchisement of prisoners and more MPs because we need more types of democratic voices. If 100 years old people can vote so can 16 years old people; if you are free or imprisoned then you need a voice in society that pertains to your welfare and rights as well.
Having more MPs in that context would mean a less fragile and more resilient sort of society and theoretically increases the level of engagement both ways politically.
I know nothing about the fourth policy being abolished however if it's anything like democracy sausages in Australia then go and make it even more of a ritual to vote! It would ensure a more civic sort of society and that genuinely matters in this day and age really.
Lowering the voting age to ridiculous so I'm glad that's gone.
I'd raise it to 21 if I could
Prisoners lose rights (as they should) when they go to prison, voting is one of them so I'm glad about that
The rest I'm ambivalent about
People go to prison as punishment, not for punishment.
putting them under lock and key already curtails them of their freedom.
there is no good public policy reason why prisoners should not be able to vote. Taking away one of their civil rights when they are already being punished is just further punishment.
Part of the punishment is you lose some of your civil rights
Voting is one of those civil rights which you then get back at a later date
"Taking away one of their civil rights when they are already being punished is just further punishment."
No, it's part of the primary punishment.
Only because some tight-minded Rightwinger declared it so.
It's not Natural Law 🙂
Loss of privileges is an appropriate part of the consequences of someone breaking the laws of the society they live in. It's part of the social contract. Losing the privilege of voting is, and should be, part of that loss.
Of course, but I’d argue that voting is a right, not a privilege. Which is one of the reasons why it was recommended to give all prisoners voting rights.
Good point, but 'rights' can also be taken away (or restricted) under certain circumstances. What are human rights? | OHCHR
Why stop at voting? Why not take away prisoners rights to drinking water? A mattress to sleep on? Air?
Who makes those decisions, David?
Not you, thank Gaia.
Because people in prison are entitled to the necessities of life, Robert. That they lose certain liberties and privileges is simply part of the social contract.
Who decides, David and by what measure of fairness?
Is a phone call to a spouse a necessity? To a lawyer? A view of the sky?
Who decides, David, and by what measure?
"Who decides, David, and by what measure?"
Society decides, on how we view the social contract and its breaches.
Indeed, some rights are taken away temporarily when imprisoned and this is reasonable and justifiable. However, taking away voting rights serve no clear purpose and are not reasonable.
I guess it comes down to how we see voting rights. I see them as part of a person's liberty. When a person breaks the law to the extent they are imprisoned, that liberty (in its many forms) is lost.
I see voting rights as a right. Some rights cannot be taken away unless under very special and specific circumstances and for very special and specific reasons. Arbitrarily removing prisoner voting rights from some prisoners fails these basic and fundamental criteria. Suffice to say, the fundamental principle of rights is protected in several Acts that ought to be consistent with each other.
In any case, similar arguments exist if you view voting rights as a liberty. In your view, it appears that there’s a low hurdle for this liberty to be arbitrarily removed when imprisoned.
David writes:
"I guess it comes down to how we see voting rights. I see them as part of a person's liberty."
But not if you are 16, right?
No liberty till you're 18.
Yours is a very confused position, David.
My position is entirely consistent and logical. I don't consider a 16-year-old to be an adult, so I do not consider them old enough to vote, or go to jail.
But now the consistency of your position becomes interesting. You support lowering the voting age to 16. So do you support 16 year olds going to jail?
You see consistency in your position; I see simplistic thinking.
There is no logical number where these things become right; each circumstance has to be looked at with regard multiple factors, which change over time. Taking advice from a wide range of thoughtful sources usually produces the soundest result on any issue. Applying the ruler of logic by ideologues at one end of the spectrum is the worst way to make decisions such as voting age etc.
"There is no logical number where these things become right; each circumstance has to be looked at with regard multiple factors, which change over time. "
Over time, I have seen nothing to convince me that 16-year-olds should be eligible to vote, or that we should extend the privilege of voting to people who have committed offences sufficient to have them serving time in jail.
Nothing, I expect, would convince you, but of course you are not the decision-maker. The issues were publicised and opinion collected. This Government squashed those particular proposals because, like you, they are ideologues who seek to suppress those who are not like them.
"…like you, they are ideologues who seek to suppress those who are not like them."
Labelling people you disagree with as 'ideologues' is not an argument, nor is it a rational position to take. If there is a law that removes the franchise from people serving a custodial sentence, then the offender has suppressed that privilege voluntarily. No-one else.
That law was made by ideologues. It can change and still be the law.
I prefer a rational balance between the rehabilitative and punitive aspects of custodial sentences. A multi‐jurisdictional survey for Penal Reform International, published in 2016 (PDF, page 7), concluded:
Kiwi prisoner disenfranchisement isn't currently a lottery that depends on the length of time between the date a sentence of <3 years is handed down, and the date of a general election – nor should it be, imho.
It seems that our current government has no plans to make regressive or progressive changes to prisoner voting rights, but time will tell.
"Kiwi prisoner disenfranchisement isn't currently a lottery that depends on the length of time between the date a sentence of <3 years is handed down, and the date of a general election – nor should it be, imho."
Then just leave the law fixed that people serving time in prison lose the privilege, or the right, to vote. Then there is no lottery.
My preference would be to extend the opportunity to participate in electoral processes to all prisoners in Aotearoa NZ (then there is no lottery), but I'm comfortable (for now) with the current level of prisoner disenfrachisement which reduces the lottery aspect of punishment.
It appears that you see the reintroduction of regressive prisoner disenfranchisement legislation as the preferred solution to the problem (of being too soft on Kiwis serving custodial sentences?) – that's not for me, and we can agree to disagree.
https://www.nzhowardleague.org.nz/
Drowsy just to be clear, I don't see prisoner franchise as being related to any notion of being too 'soft' on sentencing. I see it more as a logical extension of the removal of liberty generally.
I was thinking less "'soft' on sentencing", and more 'soft/friendly on rights and conditions' while incarcerated.
Reintroducing universal disenfranchisement for prisoners would increase the lottery aspect of deprivation for those serving sentences <3 years – being deprived of the right to vote in a general election would subsequently depend on when in an electoral cycle a prison sentence started. AFAIK, our coalition government hasn't indicated that they plan to reintroduce universal disenfranchisement for prisoners.
Not that many Kiwi prisoners vote anyway, and I can imagine the beneficial effects of being encouraged to do so. The debate will continue in Aotearoa NZ, and elsewhere.
I see the 'lottery' aspect (as you've described it) as simply a consequence of offending. However there are obvious compromise positions that could be reached.
Right wingers seek to narrow the band to keep power in the hands of their own tribe.
Narrow thinking. Shallow thinking.
Left wing parties, especially in NZ, appeal to convicted criminals
Funny that
Of course, they're the only chance any criminal might have of redemption and rehabilitation.
Why would they vote for the whip-wielders?
Yes that's the reason, nothing to do with the left being soft on crime
Being tough or soft on crime has nothing to do with enfranchisement of various groups in a democracy.
Am I happy that there might be some new sources of right-wing votes that comes with democratic enfranchisement of new groups? No. I do not have to be pleased about that. That's inevitable. I'll get over it anyway. You never know, they could surprise you.
However in the spirit of democracy, it is necessary to give voice to more crops of groups that might be affected by any policies by any political parties led by any politician.
A civic society that is afforded more democratic rights and more say in things is a civilised society.
And that is what matters to me. It is not worth enduring a society that would deprive others of rights and a say in things. That is not a way to progress things.
I see it as simple as if the state has the power to imprison you then you should have the ability to vote for those who decide the extent of that power and how it is enforced.
The three strikes law is a perfect example of disproportionate impact invoked by politicians that impacts directly on people in or having previously been in prison.
Also many prisoners have not been convicted of anything and will be found innocent or cases will fall over.
Correct. Your thinking is becoming a bit clearer as you spend more time on The Standard.
Petrolhead Simeon Brown gets his chance to shaft all those left voting EV owners. He is like a infant in charge of a Rolls Royce.
The bit I read was that RUCs might be about $1000/yr plus charging costs. Clean car rebate also gone. Petrol for most users is maybe $2000 – $3000/yr so the vehicle types are now much more even. Do we expect EV sales to plummet?
I drive an electric van belonging to a not-for-profit group, distributing produce around a 165km "loop" in Southland. We chose electric because the lower fuel costs were within the scope of what we could manage, financially.
I have thoughts about Simeon and his backward-thinking mates, that are not generous.
Do you think EVs should be exempt from paying, firstly, for the roads they drive on and secondly, ACC levies (which are currently charged at 6c per litre of fuel).
If so, why?
It's only irksome in light of the relatively free ride heavy trucks get. Tractors too. As well, the cessation of incentives to buy vehicles that don't burn fossil fuels is annoying. I think privileging electric vehicles for a longer period would have benefitted us all and the loss of income for the Government a small price to pay for behaviour change.
Also, I don't like Simeon's manner 🙂
I am of the opinion that better 100 guilty folk walk free than one innocent person be incarcerated.
This is an article on the miscarraige of justice that was the conviction of Allan Hall for the murder of Arthur Easton.
https://thedailyblog.co.nz/2024/01/17/guest-blog-jackie-foster-an-ignorant-judiciary/
There are some serious allegations that appear to border on corruption.
It also includes a link to sign a petition for a Royal Commission of Inquiry into the wrongful conviction of Allan Hall.