The law and order debate and the grade one tosser
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- Date published:
7:43 am, May 22nd, 2018 - 36 comments
Categories: act, Andrew Little, crime, Deep stuff, democratic participation, labour, Left, national, newspapers, prisons -
Tags: david fisher, david garrett
I am really pleased that the Government has said no to the new mega prison planned for Waikeria. The prison would have been a retrograde step, continued New Zealand’s failure to address the causes of crime and sucked in huge amounts of resources that could be used to deal with poverty.
From Radio New Zealand:
Plans to build a new mega-prison at Waikeria have been scrapped, but the government has yet to decide what to do instead.
The Corrections Department is waiting for the government to report back on its proposal to build a 3000-bed prison in rural Waikato.
It would be the largest prison in the country.
The government has repeatedly delayed its response, but Corrections Minister Kelvin Davis confirmed on Sunday that the large-scale option had been taken off the table.
“We will not be building a mega prison,” he said in a statement.
However, he left the door open to a smaller expansion, saying a final decision on the proposal was still pending.
“We will take action, but it will be considered and not reactive… I will be making a decision, but I want to make the right one for all those affected.”
The problem the country is facing is that under current legal and policy settings the prison population is going up and the system is close to capacity.
A great deal of the problem is the change in bail laws passed in 2013 by National.
It caused the number of people on remand, that is people who had not been found guilty of anything, to increase from 1,800 to 3,000.
The latest report has the total prison muster at 10,394.
It has been clear for years that this problem was becoming more and more of an issue. But apart from gleefully proposing more and more changes akin to double bunking the last Government’s proposals and decisions were rather minimal.
And Andrew Little, whose decision making in Justice has been extraordinarily good, has said that he wants that this government wants to reduce the prison population. He has asked for advice on the bail laws and change is likely. He has said:
We are going to have to have a look at this because what is happening and the consequences of that change in the bail laws is we’re getting way more people banged up in prison, and they haven’t even been convicted yet, they’re there on remand, than was intended when that bail law was first introduced.
It would be great for a political consensus to be reached on this most important issue. But the chances are slim.
The approach is perfectly consistent with Labour’s policy of reducing the prison muster by 30% over 15 years. But on the right Simon O’Connor has described the move as being ideological.
Law and order has been increasingly the attention of different media outlets in preparation for what will be an important public discussion.
There was this coverage by the outstanding David Fisher to provide a detailed analysis of the subject and comment from some major players.
He sought views from different people.
He received this from Garth McVicar:
McVicar rejects the notion the scientific research is correct and warns about seeking out the same expert advice relied on before the Sensible Sentencing Trust emerged.
As McVicar tells it – and this is in contradiction to the graphs, statistics and peer-reviewed research in Gluckman’s report – academics and scientists had led New Zealand into a crime-ridden society until the “evolution” of the Sensible Sentencing Trust.
“How can Gluckman be right when all he’s doing is going back to prior 2001 or 2000? How can he be right?”
McVicar says – and Gluckman’s report says this is not true – longer sentences, tougher bail laws and making parole more difficult to obtain have led to the fall in our crime rate.
Gluckman’s report was simply the chief science adviser “running off his mouth without having any conclusive evidence to prove what he had to say”.
McVicar doesn’t accept the report and says the 149 inter-linked research references “don’t support what he’s saying”.
Apart from intellectuals uncritically changing everything that has been written about crime over the past few decades I suspect the prospects of agreement are remote.
Peter Gluckman may as well have been in a different dimension such was his take of the view. He was reported in these terms:
Gluckman said the prisons report – as an example – gives the public information to make a decision. If we choose to continue to run our justice system the same way, more people will be locked up who will eventually be released, “brutalised” by prison and “over time we will escalate the crime rate”.
And as we do that, we need to recognise our society is not doing enough to stop people entering prison, or if they do go to prison, to shift the focus of their imprisonment to rehabilitation so they can join society in a positive way.
Our other option is to recognise many in prison have “lifetime diagnosable mental illness or substance-use disorder”, many are there “because of social circumstances which put them on the trajectory towards unfortunate and harmful outcomes for society”.
And, he says, there should be greater effort expended to stop people ending up in the justice system at all.
And Andrew Little gave this painful yet utterly realistic description of the current system:
If the purposes of having longer sentences and things like ‘three strikes’ is that it acts as a disincentive, clearly the evidence says it is not.”
Little said young men, like many who become regulars in the prison system, do not “stand around with criminal intent” and calculate how to commit a crime so as to get a lesser sentence, or to avoid a “strike”.
“They don’t do that. If they see an opportunity, or they are high as a kite or whatever, they go and offend.”
At the same time, many in prison suffer addiction, mental health and other issues which has been tied directly to criminal offending.
“Unless we start to deal with those issues, we are failing. We are failing members of the public who just become those guys’ next victims.
“It’s not the length of time a serious offender spends in prison. It’s what happens when they are there.
“More and more time isn’t going to fix them.” If the underlying issues aren’t addressed, “we haven’t made it any better for them”.
“We’ve just recycling them through the system.”
Fisher’s article attracted the attention of a particular person who has more than a nodding acquaintance with the criminal justice system, particularly the treatment of those who steal the identities of dead babies.
Fisher’s write up of this person‘s response is one of the most entertaining things you will read.
Some highlights:
Former Act MP and lawyer David Garrett sent a string of abusive text messages last night in support of McVicar and championing the “Three Strikes” law he designed and got through Parliament.
“The self-described ‘cow cocky’ from Hawke’s Bay” has had 100 times the influence you and your mates have ever had … and I know that burns like f***,” said Garrett.
In a later text, he said McVicar “frustrates the left hugely … because a self-described ‘cow cocky from Hawke’s Bay’ has been so hugely influential” …
“You are a grade one tosser,” Garrett told this reporter. “You know very well there is excellent evidence that 3S (Three Strikes) works superbly as a specific deterrent to the 9000-odd first strikers.”
But it appears that the evidence Garrett was relying on was not so pristine.
Garrett, who said this month he had provided legal advice to the trust for 15 years, then presented statistics apparently showing the law had a proven deterrent effect.
The statistics had been sourced by criminal defence lawyer Graeme Edgeler for a post on the Public Address blog and then analysed further on the statistics blog run by University of Auckland statistics Professor Thomas Lumley.
Although the posts initially formed the view Three Strikes could be statistically shown to have worked, Garrett appeared unaware both Edgeler and Lumley had since withdrawn their comments, having found they were based on bad data from the Ministry of Justice.
But wait there was more.
Garrett scanned a print out of the outdated blog post – the date of printing was shown as October 2015 – and emailed it saying he expected to “watch you go mysteriously silent – can’t be publishing anything that blows your own argument, eh?”
Garrett continued texting, peppering his communications with various personal insults.
After sending the print out of Lumley’s outdated blogpost, he wrote: “How to make a dickhead go quiet – send him some stats from someone he has already acknowledged as authoritative … instant silence … too funny.”
During the texts, Garrett said: “I am well aware this exchange is on the record.
But then the penny dropped after David Fisher pointed out to Garrett the problem with the data and the analysis:
Garrett reposting: “I stand corrected.”
He said he would seek fresh statistics from the Ministry of Justice.However, he said “deterrence was only ever seen as a bonus” as the law was aimed at “incapacitation of thoroughly bad people so they can’t hurt the rest of us”.
“That in itself is good enough for me. Deterrence would be a bonus.”
This highlights a problem when debating with the right. If they have some evidence, any evidence, that will support their prejudices they will wield this like a weapon. And it does not matter how many reports run counter to their beliefs because they are all wrong.
Whereas our response on the left would be “wow new data, what does it mean and does it validate or challenge my current beliefs?”
At least Garrett had the decency to admit he was wrong about the data.
Although he still thinks the three strikes law is a good idea.
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Hi,“What I love about New Zealanders is that sometimes you use these expressions that as Americans we have no idea what those things mean!"I am watching a 30-something year old American ramble on about how different New Zealanders are to Americans. It’s his podcast, and this man is doing a ...1 week ago - Chris Penk’s Hate Parade
What Chris Penk has granted holocaust-denier and equal-opportunity-bigot Candace Owens is not “freedom of speech”. It’s not even really freedom of movement, though that technically is the right she has been granted. What he has given her is permission to perform. Freedom of SpeechIn New Zealand, the right to freedom ...1 week ago - Tell me a story
All those tears on your cheeksJust like deja vu flow nowWhen grandmother speaksSo tell me a story (I'll tell you a story)Spell it out, I can't hear (What do you want to hear?)Why you wear black in the morning?Why there's smoke in the air? Songwriter: Greg Johnson.Mōrena all ☀️Something a ...1 week ago - As Our Power Lessens: Accepted
2024 is now officially my best-ever year for short stories. My 1,850-word dark fantasy piece, As Our Power Lessens, has been accepted for the upcoming solstice edition of Eternal Haunted Summer (https://eternalhauntedsummer.com/), thereby making that six published short stories for the calendar year. As always, see the Bibliography page for ...1 week ago
- National’s Greatest Misses 2023-4
National has only been in power for a year, but everywhere you look, its choices are taking New Zealand a long way backwards. In no particular order, here are the National Government's Top 50 Greatest Misses of its first year in power. ...2 days ago - Release: Minister’s plan for tertiary sector a backwards step
Returning to the model that was failing for most polytechnics and Institutes of Technology is not the answer. ...2 days ago
- Release: National buries 1019 planned homes
It’s been revealed that National has cancelled 60 percent of its housing projects planned before mid-2025 amidst housing woes. ...2 days ago
- Release: Rule-Czar bill a right-wing power grab
The Government is quietly undertaking consultation on the dangerous Regulatory Standards Bill over the Christmas period to avoid too much attention. ...2 days ago
- Release: Why not both? Luxon shuns Waitangi celebrations
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is running away from problems of his own creation, with his decision not to go to Waitangi. ...3 days ago
- Govt’s ‘free speech’ legislation stokes fear, not freedom
The Government’s planned changes to the freedom of speech obligations of universities is little more than a front for stoking the political fires of disinformation and fear, placing teachers and students in the crosshairs. ...3 days ago - Release: Nicola Willis spirals country deeper into recession
The economy shrank 1% this quarter and New Zealand has tumbled into the depths of a recession of Nicola Willis’ making. ...3 days ago
- Release: Hikes for company directors but not ordinary Kiwis
Working people are going backwards while company directors are being given huge pay hikes. ...4 days ago
- ECE no place to cut corners
The Ministry of Regulation’s report into Early Childhood Education (ECE) in Aotearoa raises serious concerns about the possibility of lowering qualification requirements, undermining quality and risking worse outcomes for tamariki, whānau, and kaiako. ...4 days ago
- Release: Strengthening Justice Services for New Zealanders
A Bill to modernise the role of Justices of the Peace (JP), ensuring they remain active in their communities and connected with other JPs, has been put into the ballot. ...4 days ago
- Release: Labour will continue fight against destructive projects
Labour will continue to fight unsustainable and destructive projects that are able to leap-frog environment protection under National’s Fast-track Approvals Bill. ...5 days ago
- Green Government will revoke dodgy fast-track projects
The Green Party has warned that a Green Government will revoke the consents of companies who override environmental protections as part of Fast-Track legislation being passed today. ...5 days ago
- Government for the wealthy keeps pushing austerity
The Green Party says the Half Year Economic and Fiscal Update shows how the Government is failing to address the massive social and infrastructure deficits our country faces. ...5 days ago
- Release: Visa changes let migrant workers be paid less
The Government’s latest move to reduce the earnings of migrant workers will not only hurt migrants but it will drive down the wages of Kiwi workers. ...5 days ago
- Release: Nightmare before Christmas for Nicola Willis
With more debt and a larger deficit, Nicola Willis’ reputation is in tatters after her failure to return the Government’s books to surplus. ...5 days ago
- Warning to Fast-Track Applicants – ‘Exploit the Whenua, Face the Consequences’
Te Pāti Māori has this morning issued a stern warning to Fast-Track applicants with interests in mining, pledging to hold them accountable through retrospective liability and to immediately revoke Fast-Track consents under a future Te Pāti Māori government. This warning comes ahead of today’s third reading of the Fast-Track Approvals ...5 days ago
- Release: Govt cuts wages for lowest paid NZers… again
For the second year running, the government has effectively cut wages for the lowest paid workers in New Zealand. ...5 days ago
- Govt’s miserly 1.5% minimum wage will take workers backwards
The Government’s announcement today of a 1.5 per cent increase to minimum wage is another blow for workers, with inflation projected to exceed the increase, meaning it’s a real terms pay reduction for many. ...5 days ago
- Release: Govt shirking responsibility for rate hikes
All the Government has achieved from its announcement today is to continue to push responsibility back on councils for its own lack of action to help bring down skyrocketing rates. ...5 days ago
- Luxon’s ‘localism’ strikes again
The Government has used its final post-Cabinet press conference of the year to punch down on local government without offering any credible solutions to the issues our councils are facing. ...6 days ago
- Release: Govt breaks promise on EV chargers
The Government has failed to keep its promise to ‘super charge’ the EV network, delivering just 292 chargers - less than half of the 670 chargers needed to meet its target. ...6 days ago
- Greens call for end to subsidies for Methanex
The Green Party is calling for the Government to stop subsidising the largest user of the country’s gas supplies, Methanex, following a report highlighting the multi-national’s disproportionate influence on energy prices in Aotearoa. ...6 days ago
- Govt child poverty targets allow for increase in poverty
The Green Party is appalled with the Government’s new child poverty targets that are based on a new ‘persistent poverty’ measure that could be met even with an increase in child poverty. ...1 week ago
- Release: Four weeks annual leave under threat
The Government’s attack on workers continues with news it is scrapping work on the Holidays Act. ...1 week ago
- Govt’s emissions plan for measly 1% reduction
New independent analysis has revealed that the Government’s Emissions Reduction Plan (ERP) will reduce emissions by a measly 1 per cent by 2030, failing to set us up for the future and meeting upcoming targets. ...1 week ago
- Greens stand in solidarity with Whakaata Māori on sad day
The loss of 27 kaimahi at Whakaata Māori and the end of its daily news bulletin is a sad day for Māori media and another step backwards for Te Tiriti o Waitangi justice. ...1 week ago
- Sanctions regime to create more hardship for families
Yesterday the Government passed cruel legislation through first reading to establish a new beneficiary sanction regime that will ultimately mean more households cannot afford the basic essentials. ...1 week ago
- Govt gifts renters housing anxiety for Christmas
Today's passing of the Government's Residential Tenancies Amendment Bill–which allows landlords to end tenancies with no reason–ignores the voice of the people and leaves renters in limbo ahead of the festive season. ...1 week ago
- Release: National Party urged to support modern slavery legislation
Labour is urging the Prime Minister to walk the talk and support legislation combating modern slavery. ...1 week ago
- Release: Labour has lost confidence in the Speaker
The Speaker of the New Zealand Parliament made an unprecedented decision on the government amendment to the Fast Track Approvals Bill last night. ...1 week ago
- One year on, still no progress on new ferries
Today’s announcement from the Government on its plan for new ferries throws more uncertainty on the future of the country’s rail network. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Nicola Willis’ smaller ferries will cost more
After wasting a year, Nicola Willis has delivered a worse deal for the Cook Strait ferries that will end up being more expensive and take longer to arrive. ...2 weeks ago
- Bill to sanction unlawful occupation of Palestine
Green Party co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick has today launched a Member’s Bill to sanction Israel for its unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, as the All Out For Gaza rally reaches Parliament. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Labour fully supports greyhound racing ban
The Government has done the right thing in moving to ban greyhound racing. ...2 weeks ago
- Greyhound racing industry ban marks new era for animal welfare
After years of advocacy, the Green Party is very happy to hear the Government has listened to our collective voices and announced the closure of the greyhound racing industry, by 1 August 2026. ...2 weeks ago
- Rangatahi voices must be centred in Government’s Relationship and Sexuality Education refresh
In response to a new report from ERO, the Government has acknowledged the urgent need for consistency across the curriculum for Relationship and Sexuality Education (RSE) in schools. ...2 weeks ago
- Govt introduces archaic anti-worker legislation
The Green Party is appalled at the Government introducing legislation that will make it easier to penalise workers fighting for better pay and conditions. ...2 weeks ago
- Winston Peters – Kinleith Mill Speech
Thank you for the invitation to speak with you tonight on behalf of the political party I belong to - which is New Zealand First. As we have heard before this evening the Kinleith Mill is proposing to reduce operations by focusing on pulp and discontinuing “lossmaking paper production”. They say that they are currently consulting on the plan to permanently shut ...2 weeks ago - Swarbrick calls on Auckland Mayor to end delay of revival of St James Theatre
Auckland Central MP, Chlöe Swarbrick, has written to Mayor Wayne Brown requesting he stop the unnecessary delays on St James Theatre’s restoration. ...2 weeks ago
- He Ara Anamata: Greens launch Emissions Reduction Plan
Today, the Green Party of Aotearoa proudly unveils its new Emissions Reduction Plan–He Ara Anamata–a blueprint reimagining our collective future. ...2 weeks ago
- Internationally-trained doctors jump at chance to boost health workforce
Health Minister Dr Shane Reti says Health New Zealand will move swiftly to support dozens of internationally-trained doctors already in New Zealand on their journey to employment here, after a tripling of sought-after examination places. “The Medical Council has delivered great news for hardworking overseas doctors who want to contribute ...6 hours ago - PM appoints business leader to APEC Business Advisory Council
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has appointed Sarah Ottrey to the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC). “At my first APEC Summit in Lima, I experienced firsthand the role that ABAC plays in guaranteeing political leaders hear the voice of business,” Mr Luxon says. “New Zealand’s ABAC representatives are very well respected and ...2 days ago
- New intelligence oversight appointments
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has announced four appointments to New Zealand’s intelligence oversight functions. The Honourable Robert Dobson KC has been appointed Chief Commissioner of Intelligence Warrants, and the Honourable Brendan Brown KC has been appointed as a Commissioner of Intelligence Warrants. The appointments of Hon Robert Dobson and Hon ...2 days ago
- New housing developments able to progress more quickly
Improvements in the average time it takes to process survey and title applications means housing developments can progress more quickly, Minister for Land Information Chris Penk says. “The government is resolutely focused on improving the building and construction pipeline,” Mr Penk says. “Applications to issue titles and subdivide land are ...2 days ago
- Actions to speed up air travel delivering results
The Government’s measures to reduce airport wait times, and better transparency around flight disruptions is delivering encouraging early results for passengers ahead of the busy summer period, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Improving the efficiency of air travel is a priority for the Government to give passengers a smoother, more reliable ...2 days ago
- Ending contracted emergency housing in Rotorua
The Government today announced the intended closure of the Apollo Hotel as Contracted Emergency Housing (CEH) in Rotorua, Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka says. This follows a 30 per cent reduction in the number of households in CEH in Rotorua since National came into Government. “Our focus is on ending CEH in the Whakarewarewa area starting ...2 days ago
- Vocational education and training decisions support return to regions
The Government will reshape vocational education and training to return decision making to regions and enable greater industry input into work-based learning Tertiary Education and Skills Minister, Penny Simmonds says. “The redesigned system will better meet the needs of learners, industry, and the economy. It includes re-establishing regional polytechnics that ...2 days ago
- Reducing the environmental impact of synthetic refrigerants
The Government is taking action to better manage synthetic refrigerants and reduce emissions caused by greenhouse gases found in heating and cooling products, Environment Minister Penny Simmonds says. “Regulations will be drafted to support a product stewardship scheme for synthetic refrigerants, Ms. Simmonds says. “Synthetic refrigerants are found in a ...2 days ago
- Ngāruawāhia section of Waikato Expressway back to 4 lanes for Christmas
People travelling on State Highway 1 north of Hamilton will be relieved that remedial works and safety improvements on the Ngāruawāhia section of the Waikato Expressway were finished today, with all lanes now open to traffic, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says.“I would like to acknowledge the patience of road users ...2 days ago
- Appointments to the ENZ board
Tertiary Education and Skills Minister, Penny Simmonds, has announced a new appointment to the board of Education New Zealand (ENZ). Dr Erik Lithander has been appointed as a new member of the ENZ board for a three-year term until 30 January 2028. “I would like to welcome Dr Erik Lithander to the ...3 days ago
- Government to celebrate Waitangi Day around NZ
The Government will have senior representatives at Waitangi Day events around the country, including at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, but next year Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has chosen to take part in celebrations elsewhere. “It has always been my intention to celebrate Waitangi Day around the country with different ...3 days ago
- More gangs added to Gangs Act list
Two more criminal gangs will be subject to the raft of laws passed by the Coalition Government that give Police more powers to disrupt gang activity, and the intimidation they impose in our communities, Police Minister Mark Mitchell says. Following an Order passed by Cabinet, from 3 February 2025 the ...3 days ago
- Judicial appointment announced
Attorney-General Judith Collins today announced the appointment of Justice Christian Whata as a Judge of the Court of Appeal. Justice Whata’s appointment as a Judge of the Court of Appeal will take effect on 1 August 2025 and fill a vacancy created by the retirement of Hon Justice David Goddard on ...3 days ago
- GDP data highlights importance of growth
The latest economic figures highlight the importance of the steps the Government has taken to restore respect for taxpayers’ money and drive economic growth, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says. Data released today by Stats NZ shows Gross Domestic Product fell 1 per cent in the September quarter. “Treasury and most ...3 days ago
- Strengthening Free Speech in Universities
Tertiary Education and Skills Minister Penny Simmonds and Associate Minister of Education David Seymour today announced legislation changes to strengthen freedom of speech obligations on universities. “Freedom of speech is fundamental to the concept of academic freedom and there is concern that universities seem to be taking a more risk-averse ...3 days ago
- Launch of Emergency Cellular Priority Service
Police Minister, Mark Mitchell, and Internal Affairs Minister, Brooke van Velden, today launched a further Public Safety Network cellular service that alongside last year’s Cellular Roaming roll-out, puts globally-leading cellular communications capability into the hands of our emergency responders. The Public Safety Network’s new Cellular Priority service means Police, Wellington ...3 days ago
- Minister reopens Mangamuka Gorge
State Highway 1 through the Mangamuka Gorge has officially reopened today, providing a critical link for Northlanders and offering much-needed relief ahead of the busy summer period, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says.“The Mangamuka Gorge is a vital route for Northland, carrying around 1,300 vehicles per day and connecting the Far ...3 days ago
- Funding confirmed for second Ashburton Bridge
The Government has welcomed decisions by the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) and Ashburton District Council confirming funding to boost resilience in the Canterbury region, with construction on a second Ashburton Bridge expected to begin in 2026, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Delivering a second Ashburton Bridge to improve resilience and ...3 days ago
- Government boosts support for avian influenza response
The Government is backing the response into high pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in Otago, Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard says. “Cabinet has approved new funding of $20 million to enable MPI to meet unbudgeted ongoing expenses associated with the H7N6 response including rigorous scientific testing of samples at the enhanced PC3 ...3 days ago
- Levelling the playing field for media advertising
Legislation that will repeal all advertising restrictions for broadcasters on Sundays and public holidays has passed through first reading in Parliament today, Media Minister Paul Goldsmith says. “As a growing share of audiences get their news and entertainment from streaming services, these restrictions have become increasingly redundant. New Zealand on ...4 days ago
- Inspector-General of Defence appointed
Today the House agreed to Brendan Horsley being appointed Inspector-General of Defence, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says. “Mr Horsley’s experience will be invaluable in overseeing the establishment of the new office and its support networks. “He is currently Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security, having held that role since June 2020. ...4 days ago
- Fire and Emergency New Zealand final levy rates confirmed
Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden says the Government has agreed to the final regulations for the levy on insurance contracts that will fund Fire and Emergency New Zealand from July 2026. “Earlier this year the Government agreed to a 2.2 percent increase to the rate of levy. Fire ...4 days ago
- More AML relief on the way for Kiwi businesses
The Government is delivering regulatory relief for New Zealand businesses through changes to the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Act. “The Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Amendment Bill, which was introduced today, is the second Bill – the other being the Statutes Amendment Bill - that ...4 days ago
- Hawke’s Bay Expressway moving at pace
Transport Minister Simeon Brown has welcomed further progress on the Hawke’s Bay Expressway Road of National Significance (RoNS), with the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) Board approving funding for the detailed design of Stage 1, paving the way for main works construction to begin in late 2025.“The Government is moving at ...4 days ago
- Government seeks partnerships to plant trees on Crown-owned-land
The Government today released a request for information (RFI) to seeking interest in partnerships to plant trees on Crown-owned land with low farming and conservation value (excluding National Parks) Forestry Minister Todd McClay announced. “Planting trees on Crown-owned land will drive economic growth by creating more forestry jobs in our regions, providing more wood ...4 days ago
- Wide ranging legislation to make justice system more efficient
Court timeliness, access to justice, and improving the quality of existing regulation are the focus of a series of law changes introduced to Parliament today by Associate Minister of Justice Nicole McKee. The three Bills in the Regulatory Systems (Justice) Amendment Bill package each improve a different part of the ...4 days ago
- Diverse skills in community trust appointments
A total of 41 appointments and reappointments have been made to the 12 community trusts around New Zealand that serve their regions, Associate Finance Minister Shane Jones says. “These trusts, and the communities they serve from the Far North to the deep south, will benefit from the rich experience, knowledge, ...4 days ago
- Torture redress for survivors of the Lake Alice Unit
The Government has confirmed how it will provide redress to survivors who were tortured at the Lake Alice Psychiatric Hospital Child and Adolescent Unit (the Lake Alice Unit). “The Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care found that many of the 362 children who went through the Lake Alice Unit between 1972 and ...4 days ago
- A busy year in the House
It has been a busy, productive year in the House as the coalition Government works hard to get New Zealand back on track, Leader of the House Chris Bishop says. “This Government promised to rebuild the economy, restore law and order and reduce the cost of living. Our record this ...4 days ago
- Consultation opens on working with engineered stone
“Accelerated silicosis is an emerging occupational disease caused by unsafe work such as engineered stone benchtops. I am running a standalone consultation on engineered stone to understand what the industry is currently doing to manage the risks, and whether further regulatory intervention is needed,” says Workplace Relations and Safety Minister ...4 days ago
- Greater reporting on Treaty settlement commitments
Mehemea he pai mō te tangata, mahia – if it’s good for the people, get on with it. Enhanced reporting on the public sector’s delivery of Treaty settlement commitments will help improve outcomes for Māori and all New Zealanders, Māori Crown Relations Minister Tama Potaka says. Compiled together for the ...4 days ago
- New appointments to the Charities Registration Board
Mr Roger Holmes Miller and Ms Tarita Hutchinson have been appointed to the Charities Registration Board, Community and Voluntary Sector Minister Louise Upston says. “I would like to welcome the new members joining the Charities Registration Board. “The appointment of Ms Hutchinson and Mr Miller will strengthen the Board’s capacity ...4 days ago
- Building consent processing times improve
More building consent and code compliance applications are being processed within the statutory timeframe since the Government required councils to submit quarterly data, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says. “In the midst of a housing shortage we need to look at every step of the build process for efficiencies ...4 days ago
- Faster access to support through Innovation Fund
Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey is proud to announce the first three recipients of the Government’s $10 million Mental Health and Addiction Community Sector Innovation Fund which will enable more Kiwis faster access to mental health and addiction support. “This fund is part of the Government’s commitment to investing in ...4 days ago
- New Zealand to assist Vanuatu on earthquake response
New Zealand is providing Vanuatu assistance following yesterday's devastating earthquake, Foreign Minister Winston Peters says. "Vanuatu is a member of our Pacific family and we are supporting it in this time of acute need," Mr Peters says. "Our thoughts are with the people of Vanuatu, and we will be ...4 days ago
- Government takes steps to reduce card fees for Kiwis
The Government welcomes the Commerce Commission’s plan to reduce card fees for Kiwis by an estimated $260 million a year, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly says.“The Government is relentlessly focused on reducing the cost of living, so Kiwis can keep more of their hard-earned income and live a ...4 days ago
- Review recommends ECE regulation shakeup
Regulation Minister David Seymour has welcomed the Early Childhood Education (ECE) regulatory review report, the first major report from the Ministry for Regulation. The report makes 15 recommendations to modernise and simplify regulations across ECE so services can get on with what they do best – providing safe, high-quality care ...4 days ago
- Offshore Renewable Energy Bill passes first reading
The Government‘s Offshore Renewable Energy Bill to create a new regulatory regime that will enable firms to construct offshore wind generation has passed its first reading in Parliament, Energy Minister Simeon Brown says.“New Zealand currently does not have a regulatory regime for offshore renewable energy as the previous government failed ...5 days ago
- Local Government (Water Services) Bill passes first reading
Legislation to enable new water service delivery models that will drive critical investment in infrastructure has passed its first reading in Parliament, marking a significant step towards the delivery of Local Water Done Well, Local Government Minister Simeon Brown and Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly say.“Councils and voters ...5 days ago
- Gene Technology Bill passes first reading
New Zealand is one step closer to reaping the benefits of gene technology with the passing of the first reading of the Gene Technology Bill, Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Judith Collins says. "This legislation will end New Zealand's near 30-year ban on gene technology outside the lab and is ...5 days ago
- Signs of the hīkoi: More than just ‘words on cardboard’
The placards seen at the Hīkoi mō Te Tiriti conveyed "huge kōrero with immediacy", expert says: "People know the power of the word." ...2 hours ago - A final Ode to .. King Luxon
Cosmic CatastropheThe year draws to a close.King Luxon has grown tired of the long eveningsListening to the dreary squabbling of his Triumvirate.He strolls up to the top floor of the PalaceTo consult with his Astronomer Royal.The Royal Telescope scans the skies,And King Luxon stares up into the heavensFrom the terrestrial ...9 hours ago - A hater and an enthusiast review The Royal Free by Carl Shuker
Spinoff editor Mad Chapman and books editor Claire Mabey debate Carl Shuker’s new novel about… an editor. Claire: Hello Mad, you just finished The Royal Free – overall impressions? Mad: Hi Claire, I literally just put the book down and I would have to say my immediate impression is ...11 hours ago - Survive to 25 (December, that is)
Christmas and its buildup are often lonely, hard and full of unreasonable expectations. Here’s how to make it to Jesus’s birthday and find the little bit of joy we all deserve. Have you found this year relentless? Has the latest Apple update “fucked up your life”? Have you lost two ...11 hours ago
- All I want for Christmas is modern day slavery legislation
Despite overwhelming public and corporate support, the government has stalled progress on a modern day slavery law. That puts us behind other countries – and makes Christmas a time of tragedy rather than joy, argues Shanti Mathias. Picture the scene on Christmas Day. Everyone replete with nice things to eat, ...11 hours ago
- Israeli-American historian describes attacks on Gaza as ‘war of annihilation’
Asia Pacific Report “It looks like Hiroshima. It looks like Germany at the end of World War Two,” says an Israeli-American historian and professor of holocaust and genocide studies at Brown University about the horrifying reality of Gaza. Professor Omer Bartov, has described Israel’s ongoing war on Gaza as an ...14 hours ago - NZ govt plans to make ‘heavy handed’ change to free speech rules for universities
The New Zealand government coalition is tweaking university regulations to curb what it says is an increasingly “risk-averse approach” to free speech. The proposed changes will set clear expectations on how universities should approach freedom of speech issues. Each university will then have to adopt a “freedom of speech statement” ...14 hours ago
- Caitlin Johnstone: Where does the aggression really begin?
Report by Dr David Robie – Café Pacific. – COMMENTARY: By Caitlin Johnstone New York prosecutors have charged Luigi Mangione with “murder as an act of terrorism” in his alleged shooting of health insurance CEO Brian Thompson earlier this month. This news comes out at the same time as ...17 hours ago
- OECD Report Highlights That More Is Needed
This report reflects that gap in our dealings overseas, and it shows that legislators, the public sector and businesses need to walk the talk. ...1 day ago - Government quietly scraps waste minimisation policies
The government has quietly cancelled plans to improve recycling and roll out a kerbside food scraps composting scheme. ...1 day ago
- MEAA welcomes News MAP funding ‘leg up’ for Australian journalism
Pacific Media Watch The union for Australian journalists has welcomed the delivery by the federal government of more than $150 million to support the sustainability of public interest journalism over the next four years. Combined with the announcement of the revamped News Bargaining Initiative, this could result in up to ...1 day ago
- Transmission Gully partnership breakdown will not hurt future public-private partnerships, Infrastru...
The roads partnership unravelled under a confidential settlement this week, meaning NZTA will now finish off what it had said was incomplete work. ...1 day ago
- Funding cuts to charity particularly felt over Christmas period
The number of people seeking help from Lifeline is expected to increase by 10 to 20 percent over Christmas. ...1 day ago
- Nelson Hospital conditions ‘unbearable’ – staff
One worker says the building is decrepit and falling down around them. ...1 day ago
- The Secret Diary of .. Luxon at Xmas
MONDAY“Merry Xmas, and praise the Lord,” said Sheriff Luxon, and smiled for the camera. There was a flash of smoke when the shutter pressed down on the magnesium powder. The sheriff had arranged for a photographer from the Dodge Gazette to attend a ceremony where he handed out food parcels to ...1 day ago
- Stand by for cricket’s Smash Palace
It’s a little under two months since the White Ferns shocked the cricketing world, deservedly taking home the T20 World Cup. Since then the trophy has had a tour around the country, five of the squad have played in the WBBL in Australia while most others have returned to domestic ...1 day ago
- Early-onset dementia under the microscope
Comment: If we say the word ‘dementia’, many will picture an older person struggling to remember the names of their loved ones, maybe a grandparent living out their final years in an aged care facility. Dementia can also occur in people younger than 65, but it can take time before ...1 day ago
- Keeping the pirates at bay: Should the Australian ‘Blocking Order’ case prompt a discussion in N...
Piracy is a reality of modern life – but copyright law has struggled to play catch-up for as long as the entertainment industry has existed. As far back as 1988, the House of Lords criticised copyright law’s conflict with the reality of human behaviour in the context of burning cassette ...1 day ago
- ‘We were as famous as Tom Cruise’: Craig Parker on 90s Shortland St fandom
As he makes a surprise return to Shortland Street, actor Craig Parker takes us through his life in television. Craig Parker has been a fixture on television in Aotearoa for nearly four decades. He had starring roles in iconic local series like Gloss, Mercy Peak and Diplomatic Immunity, featured in ...1 day ago
- ‘I prioritise the mission, not my health’: Adam McGrath’s perfect weekend playlist
The Ōtautahi musician shares the 10 tracks he loves to spin, including the folk classic that cured him of a ‘case of the give-ups’. When singer-songwriter Adam McGrath returns to Kumeu’s Auckland Folk Festival from January 24-27, he’s not planning on simply idling his way through – he wants the late ...1 day ago
- The rescue dog bringing joy to Christchurch retirement homes
Alex Casey spends an afternoon on the job with River, the rescue dog on a mission to spread joy to Ōtautahi rest homes. Almost everyone says it is never enough time. But River the rescue dog, a jet black huntaway border collie cross, has to keep a tight pace to ...1 day ago
- Fiji pro-Palestine nativity scene exposes Gaza as ‘hell on earth’ at Christmas
Asia Pacific Report Fiji activists have recreated the nativity scene at a solidarity for Palestine gathering in Fiji’s capital Suva just days before Christmas. The Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre and Fijians for Palestine Solidarity Network recreated the scene at the FWCC compound — a baby Jesus figurine lies amidst the ...2 days ago
- Vanuatu quake: ‘Our shop was flattened like a deck of cards’
By 1News Pacific correspondent Barbara Dreaver and 1News reporters A number of Kiwis have been successfully evacuated from Vanuatu after a devastating earthquake shook the Pacific island nation earlier this week. The death toll was still unclear, though at least 14 people were killed according to an earlier statement from ...2 days ago
- How diplomats have broken the law in NZ – and what happened next
A handful of foreign diplomats have misbehaved during their time here - and not all of them have been brought to justice. ...2 days ago
- Swim schools report sinking enrolments as downturn deepens
Being able to swim is often considered a life skill, but tough economic times are forcing many families to pull their children out of lessons. ...2 days ago
- ‘There will be deaths because of this’ – Warning over Health NZ IT cuts
A West Coast IT worker is warning patients will die as Health New Zealand aims to slash its data and digital staff. ...2 days ago
- Polytech sales possible but unlikely when Te Pūkenga disestablished – minister
In a surprise move, the sale of polytechnics will be on the table when the national institute of technology Te Pūkenga is disestablished. ...2 days ago
- Parliament’s final sitting day an insight into party factions
On Parliament's last day of the year, there was a rare glimpse of the factions within the major parties. ...2 days ago
- Former Labour MP, North Shore mayor Ann Hartley dies
Former Labour MP and mayor of Auckland's North Shore City Ann Hartley has died. ...2 days ago
- The closest thing Australian cartooning had to a prophet: the sometimes celebrated, sometimes contro...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Richard Scully, Professor in Modern History, University of New England Bunker. Image courtesy of Michael Leunig, CC BY-NC-SA Michael Leunig – who died in the early hours of Thursday December 19, surrounded by “his children, loved ones, and sunflowers” – was the ...2 days ago
- Labour moves Speaker from the ‘nice’ to ‘naughty’ list
Last week's fights with the Speaker over the Fast Track schedule may have changed the tone in Parliament. ...2 days ago
- Govt ends pilot programme for Māori and Pacific, sparking outrage
The Government announced the end of the programme that allowed Māori and Pacific people to acess bowel cancer screening at 50-years-old. ...2 days ago
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Mickey; – you are so very correct; – as national did this with impunity.
National over the nine years always did this when they used MBIE to conger together their own “cherry picked” whitewashed studies to support their own ends.
Just as they did in 2013/14 over whether to close or keep open the Gisborne rail line that they caused to become washed out after they took the rail line maintainence funding away from Gisborne to give to Auckland passenger rail.
A leading Gisborne counillor claimed the government report was just “another whitewash”.
This was yet another travesty of justice.
http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO1305/S00019/east-coast-economic-study-wasteful-whitewash.htm
“This highlights a problem when debating with the right. If they have some evidence, any evidence, that will support their prejudices they will wield this like a weapon. And it does not matter how many reports run counter to their beliefs because they are all wrong.”
wow cg, you are a very flexible fellow! From Waikeria Prison/3 strikes to the Gisborne rail line in three very short paragraphs. Keep up with the yoga!
Criminology… such a huge field,… but we can garner a few clues from sites such as this…
Historical background – It’s Time to Cut New Zealand’s Prison Population
cuttheprisonpop.nz/historical-background/
I remember a member of the Police saying that ” during the 1990’s building booms crime dropped , and guys were too busy hanging off building sites working to bother about committing crime”
That stuck with me and to a point and that pithy observation had quite a bit of truth to it. Not the total answer , but a lot of wisdom.
http://cuttheprisonpop.nz/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/trickle-down-economics-.jpg
Chris Trotter: Who will cry out that neoliberalism’s new … – Stuff.co.nz
https://www.stuff.co.nz/…/chris-trotter-who-will-cry-out-that-neoliberalisms-new-clothes…
Yip anyone in government who does not see the need for jobs jobs jobs is to thick to be there
I suspect the tightening of bail laws were due to some high profile recipients of bail doing some rather nasty crimes. Australia went through the same process following some high profile cases there.
http://mobile.abc.net.au/news/2017-05-08/victoria-set-to-tighten-bail-justice-system-after-review/8505506
https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/opinion/time-for-debate-on-tougher-bail-is-over/news-story/c6a48dc3c0bcd7c8f8a1d47caefdb30c
Andrew Little needs to tread very carefully. Victims of course should be at the forefront of his thinking.
@ Ross,
That last sentence is a proposition that is often put, but since you have just presented it as an absolute…can you at least try and defend it.
Andrew
Do you not think that victims should be at the forefront of the Minister’s thoughts? Why did Australia and NZ introduce tougher bail laws? Public safety is my main priority and should be the Minister’s.
Which is why it’s so important that the minister listens to fact-based arguments rather than ignorant racists whose witless and corrupt policies create more crime.
OAB
I presume your comment about racists doesnt refer to me.
Depends whether you’re making common cause with McVicar, Garret, Capill et al.
Well I love my neighbour and judge not lest I be judged. But interestingly that doesnt make me a Christian. 🙂
Sure, and if you support “tough on crime” policies, you’re making common cause with ignorant racists, and you all look the same to me.
Quick answer Ross, no I don’t think that victims (past tense) should be at the forefront of the Minister’s thoughts on the impact that our current penal policy has on community safety and social order.
Our penal system fits within a highly complex set of interacting political influences and would take more time and access to research than I can offer here. It might be helpful however to consider these two issues separately.
It is interesting for example that the political elite can determine which actions may be deemed criminal and what sanctions are appropriate for those actions, as well as determining the larger social preconditions that often make criminal outcomes an inevitability. At the same time, it (the system) forgoes any direct responsibility for the outcomes of those determinations.
Instead, it deliberately sets a social tone that directs the aim of victim retribution towards the perpetrators while it deftly sidesteps any responsibility for creating the social, legal and economic preconditions of crime.
What about if every citizen of a crime, could demand compensation from the State for its failure to deliver on the safety promises of the social contract… much like an ACC system?
Do you then think political elites would continue as they are or might they start taking some action to reduce those preconditions?
Andrew
Victims, both present and past tense, have rights. Would you like that to change and do you believe public safety is important?
http://communitylaw.org.nz/community-law-manual/chapter-34-the-criminal-courts/victims-chapter-34/
http://www.victimsinfo.govt.nz/support-and-services/victims-rights
“Tough on crime” policies have nothing to do with public safety, and everything to do with stoking pathetic vengeance fantasies in the minds of ignorant racists, and by an amazing coincidence, boosting the crime-based profits of SERCO et al.
Ross,
It is precisely because I believe that public safety is important that I am arguing that we need to hold political elites entirely accountable for the social, legal and economic preconditions of crime.
There is much more to it than this aside… But
If politics were a business the CE’s (read political elites) wouldn’t get far blaming the workforce, or those they have made redundant from that workforce, for the poor performance of the company
If public safety is your main aim, then you would support the mix of policies which have dramatically reduced both crime, and prison populations, in Portugal, Holland, Iceland and Denmark.
Sending silly teenagers, and angry young men, to “crime university” results in more criminals, and less “safety for the public”.
“Tough on crime” advocates are ignoring evidence, and the societal support, that is proven to work.
Having said that. Prison is a very effective deterrent for white collar crime. However most white collar crimes are legal in New Zealand.
Yes, think of the victims of all the extra crime that results from letting ignorant racists and/or private prison companies write penal policy.
If Little drives this point home then perhaps the ignorant racists will start having to explain why they push penal policies that create more crime. And whether they’ve been paid to do so. Has SERCO got a table at Cabinet Club, that sort of thing.
Ignorant racists or something worse? After all, there’s money in it.
Having private prisons, that National brought back, that make more profit from having more people in them then it’s possible to postulate that it actually was indented.
Only 1 privately run prison in NZ currently – after Serco was kicked out Auckland remand prison- with 960 people. it doesnt seem to make any difference to the overall numbers of around 7000 who are sentenced.
Time line:
2011 National brings back private prisons
2013 National passes bill to increase prison numbers
2016 National still looking to allow profiteers (including Serco) to profit from increased incarceration
2017 Coalition government elected
2018 Government announces that they’re not going to build super prison and a review of the justice system
Looks like the new government hasn’t had time to make any difference yet.
The 2013 legislation, which was supported by labour was expected to increase numbers by around 50 !
Labour supported the bail changes at the time, which were led by then-Justice Minister Judith Collins and reversed the burden of proof for people accused of serious crimes.
That meant people accused of murder or Class A drug offences or repeat offenders in kidnapping, aggravated burglary and other serious cases had to show why they should be bailed, rather than the police showing why they should be locked up.
Little said the stricter laws had been applied too broadly and had led to a far greater incarceration rate than predicted.
The Ministry of Justice had advised in 2013 that 50 extra prison bed nights a year would be required as a result of the changes. Instead, 800 extra bed nights a year had been required.
Sort of destroys your argument , Non ?
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12035056
A new government has to pass new bail laws. Just wanting things to change doesnt make it so.
Would be interesting to see the types of offences that are now included that
No.
National could still have passed the bill and ensured that it applied too broadly simply to boost profits for private corporations.
Labour supporting the bill doesn’t change that. It does call into question Labour’s judgement though.
Nonsense.
The advice- not from national- was that an extra 50.
The national party doesnt issue directives to judges.
I think they too were surprised by the extra numbers- which have meant more people in state prisons. The Wiri prison would be full anyway, because of its location and less Aucklanders sent to to regional prisons.
Please put your thinking cap back on.
Look as a victim of homicide myself I understand where Garth is coming from. And I have met many of the victims Garth and his colleagues from the Sensible Sentencing Trust tirelessly advocate for and I know they care. I have heard these victims stories and many are horrendous and I believe some of these people mostly murderers and rapist need to remain in prison and should never get out. But I don’t agree with everything he says. I especially don’t agree with us building a mega prison and I also told Garth I don’t agree with the 3 strikes law because it doesn’t work. Based on all the research done in America it doesn’t work and nor does the death penalty. We need to look at what America has done and do something similar they have managed to reduce prison rates and if they can do so can we.
Copying the USA got us into this problem in the first place.
We should do what works instead. That means importing policy from eg: The Netherlands and Norway.
Edit: unfortunately, the National Party prefers rhetoric and crocodile tears: claiming to side with victims whilst pursuing social, economic and penal policies that create more crime.
We are very lax in NZ in our victim support. Lets improve the victim support but the high prison numbers is a different issue.
About 10+ years ago Phil Goff went on a fact finding tour to find ways of sorting out our terrible record, but he went silent on the issue. Too tough politically I guess.
Or we could copy Portugal, Iceland and Norway, who really have reduced both crime, and imprisonment rates.
However that would mean raising taxes on the well off. So not going to happen.
The whole Judicial & Penal System needs to be looked at with a fresh set of eyes, “doing the same thing year after year and expecting different results is the definition of insanity” ?
I think we should closely study the Injustice industry and policy in the USA and do the opposite. We cannot fail.
National wile in government failed to keep adequate maintenance up on the current prisons and had been slowly increasing the population so they have reason to go ahead with privatizing them. Private prisons are a money drain on an area in both money and people. Those running them tend to kick back money to the politicians with donations and incentives to have them criminalize even the smallest of crimes to keep the population in the prisons rising and the profits growing. They have no incentive to rehabilitate prisoners as that would cut the chances they can get them back in again and make even more money from them. You just have to look at what private prisons have done in the US with its fastest-growing prison population. The US is number 2 in the world for Prisoners per 100,000 population a rate thought to be much higher than the estimate of Prisoners per 100,000 population in North Korea. A lot of people committing minor crimes have also been caught out by harsh 3 strike systems that land them with mandatory long sentences for nonviolent crimes or possession of small amounts of drugs for their personal use. Those caught with drugs should not be tossed in prisons but put into rehab.
I’d be quite keen to see the rate of increase of the prison muster decreasing _before_ we stop building prisons.
Otherwise we set ourselves up for trouble a couple of years down the track.
A.
I think Andrew Little will work at improving rehabilitation, and mentoring to snowball a turn around. He sure won’t give Serco any further contracts imo.
That would be great, but I am sure he would be the first to admit that these changes will take a while (years) to make an impact. In the meantime we need to have more beds than prisoners.
What extra funding was there in the Budget for rehabilitation and crime prevention, including mental health and addiction services?