Trashing the country’s Covid response for political advantage
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- Date published:
8:39 am, July 8th, 2020 - 126 comments
Categories: national, same old national, todd muller, uncategorized -
Tags: covid, covid-19, Covid19
Yesterday was a pretty spectacular day. It was the day that the country learned conclusively that for National winning political advantage was more important than keeping the population safe from Covid.
I don’t know what other interpretation to put on it.
Two weeks ago I said this:
It appears that National has decided to oppose every thing the Government is doing. And publicly trash efforts by claiming that the effort is a national disgrace while pretty well every country is looking at New Zealand and wishing they had achieved something similar. And I can’t help but wonder if some within National are secretly cheering for a second community outbreak to occur.
Harsh I know. But how else do you explain Michael Woodhouse’s decision to score political points rather than alert the government about what could have been a significant risk? That period of a day or so where clearly senior levels of the Ministry of Health did not know about the road trip could have been disastrous.
National’s rhetoric about how badly the Government was doing and how inept its response was can now be augmented by the news that National operatives actively leaked confidential medical information. And then National jumped up and down about the privacy breach.
Hamish Walker’s explanation does not make sense. He has offered two explanations.
The first is that he wanted to justify his claim that Indians, Pakistanis and Koreans some infected with Covid were on their way to Queenstown.
The second is that he wanted to highlight the failure of the Government to keep the information confidential.
Neither explanation stands up. And if the second reason was the real reason he could have gone public and said that he had been given confidential information and then handed it to the authorities. But I guess then he would have dropped Boag in it.
Audrey Young has poured a huge dollup of scorn on the claim. From the Herald:
The National Party has suffered a massive breach of sound judgment from top to bottom.
MP Hamish Walker’s confession to being the person who sent the names of Covid-19 patients to media outlets was bad enough — but his apology has reinforced his shocking judgment.
It is an apology for an apology. It smacks of self-righteous post-fact justification, and downright deception.
His statement suggests his motive for sending the list was akin to some kind of white-hat hacker, trying to expose weaknesses in the Government’s information systems.
“By exposing a significant privacy issue I hope the Government will improve its protocols and get its safeguards right.”
The gall of it.
His actual motive, as understood by my colleague Amelia Wade who received the list, was to defend his reputation against allegations of racism.
He had been accused of racism for saying it was disgraceful that communities in his part of the world, Queenstown and Dunedin, had not been consulted about them possibly being used for managed isolation, and singling out three countries.
“These people are possibly heading for Dunedin, Invercargill and Queenstown from India, Pakistan and Korea.”
Apparently the list he sent through doesn’t actually list country of nationality or where they had flown from and so the list proved absolutely nothing — except poor judgment.
The information concerning where infected kiwis had flown from is paradoxically available publicly. Figures for the past two months are:
- India – 17
- Australia – 11
- United States – 3
- Singapore – 1
- Pakistan – 0
- North and South Korea – 0
And this morning there were further developments highlighted by Radio New Zealand. These include:
- Muller claims that he discovered Walker was the leaker on Monday, July 6 at lunchtime.
- Walker lawyered up. Muller held off saying something public for a day because he had to deal with a QC’s letter.
- Boag confirmed she had received the information via her personal email address. She has resigned as acting chief executive of the Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust but from the language used not as a trustee of the trust.
- Muller claims that to his knowledge no other National MP knew about the leak and this was the actions of a rogue National MP and a rogue former President of the National Party.
- The Heron inquiry is going to continue.
The lawyering up by Walker is particularly interesting. What was he hoping to achieve?
This episode displays how poor Walker’s judgment is. And how much of a mess National’s caucus is in. And how Muller has no control over his caucus. And how elements within National are happy to trash the Country’s Covid response for political advantage.
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Papā te whatitiri, hikohiko te uira, i kanapu ki te rangi, i whētuki i raro rā, rū ana te whenua e. Uea te pou o tōku whare kia tū tangata he kapua whakairi nāku nā runga o Taupiri. Ko taku kiri ka tōkia ki te anu mātao. E te iwi ...1 week ago
- Release: Gaps still to be addressed in callouts response
The Government must guarantee New Zealanders will not be at risk after making changes to the way mental health callouts are handled. ...1 week ago
- Poroporoaki: Kiingi Tuheitia passing
Haere e te Kīngi o te kotahitangi Haere ki o nui, ki o rahi I te pō ...1 week ago
- Green Party pays respects to Kiingi Tuuheitia
The Green Party is paying tribute to the Māori King, Kiingi Tuuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero XVII, after he passed away earlier this morning. ...2 weeks ago
- Potaka Brings Whakaata Māori to its Knees
Today’s Whakaata Māori announcement is yet another colossal failure from Minister Potaka, who has turned his back on te reo Māori, forcing a channel offline, putting whānau out of jobs, and cutting Māori content, says Te Pāti Māori. “A Senior Māori Minister has turned his back on Te Reo Māori. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: National restricts access to disability care homes
With disability communities still reeling from the diminishing of Whaikaha, a leaked document now reveals another blow with National restricting access to residential care homes. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Govt must help save 230 manufacturing jobs
Labour is calling on the Government and Mercury Energy to find a solution to the proposed Winstone Pulp mill closure and save 230 manufacturing jobs. ...2 weeks ago
- Govt shirks its responsibility to Whakaata Māori
The Green Party has called out the Government for allowing Whakaata Māori to effectively collapse to a shell of its former self as job cuts and programming cuts were announced at the broadcaster today. ...2 weeks ago
- NZ First Member’s Bill To Disestablish Auckland Transport
Today New Zealand First has introduced a Member’s Bill that will restore democratic control over transport management in Auckland City by disestablishing Auckland Transport (AT) and returning control to Auckland Council. The ‘Local Government (Auckland Council) (Disestablishment of Auckland Transport) Amendment Bill’ intends to restore democratic oversight, control, and accountability ...2 weeks ago - Release: PM fails in constitutional role and leadership
The failure of the Prime Minister to condemn his Minister for personally attacking the judiciary is another example of this Government riding roughshod over important constitutional rules. ...2 weeks ago
- Waititi urges Rotorua Lakes Council to immediately stop works at Lake Rotokākahi
Te Pāti Māori co-leader and Member of Parliament for Waiariki, which includes Rotorua, has written to Rotorua Lakes Councillors requesting they immediately stop sewerage piping works at Lake Rotokākahi in Rotorua. “Mana whenua have been urging Rotorua Lakes Council to stop works and look at alternative plans to protect the ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Patient care at risk from redundancies
Patient care could suffer as a result of further cuts to the health system, which could lose thousands of staff who keep our hospitals and clinics running. ...2 weeks ago
- Greens call on Govt to wake up on child poverty
The Green Party says the latest statistics on child poverty in this country highlight the callous approach that the Government is taking on this issue of national shame. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Police are off the beat under National
Foot patrols around the country have decreased 15 percent since National took office, despite National’s Mark Mitchell claiming otherwise. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Climate denial is an insult to Pacific leaders
Winston Peters’ climate denialism at the Pacific Islands’ Forum is an embarrassing new low. ...2 weeks ago
- Govt must end solitary confinement
The Green Party is urging the Government to end the use of solitary confinement within our prisons after new research revealed some prisoners have been held in confinement for more than 900 days. ...2 weeks ago
- Fossil fuels never the answer in climate crisis
The Government’s moves to enable the import of Liquefied Natural Gas is another step away from the sustainable and affordable energy network that this country needs. ...2 weeks ago
- Government must respect Court’s Uber employee decision
Today’s court ruling upholding the rights of Uber drivers is a message to the Government that it must not tamper with employment protections. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Uber court decision recognises workers’ rights
The Court of Appeal decision that Uber drivers are entitled to employee rights such as minimum wage, sick leave, holiday pay and collective bargaining is welcome news for the drivers involved and their unions. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Labour calls on Govt to divest from illegal settlements
The Labour Party is calling on the Government to tell the two major wealth funds, the NZ Super Fund and ACC, to withdraw investments from companies listed by the United Nations as complicit in Israel’s illegal settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Govt backtrack on fast-track still not enough
Labour welcomes news that the National Government is backing down on its reckless proposal to give Ministers final sign-off on significant projects, but it’s still not enough. ...2 weeks ago
- Fast track still on track to environmental destruction
Our environment remains at risk despite the Government's proposed changes to its controversial fast-track legislation. ...2 weeks ago
- Ohinemuri River pollution highlights mining risks
The harrowing images of the severely polluted Ohinemuri River caused by an old mining shaft could become a more common occurrence under the mining regime the Government is looking to roll out. ...2 weeks ago
- Action to grow the rural health workforce
Scholarships awarded to 27 health care students is another positive step forward to boost the future rural health workforce, Associate Health Minister Matt Doocey says. “All New Zealanders deserve timely access to quality health care and this Government is committed to improving health outcomes, particularly for the one in five ...7 hours ago - Pharmac delivering more for Kiwis following major funding boost
Associate Health Minister with responsibility for Pharmac David Seymour has welcomed the increased availability of medicines for Kiwis resulting from the Government’s increased investment in Pharmac. “Pharmac operates independently, but it must work within the budget constraints set by the Government,” says Mr Seymour. “When our Government assumed office, New ...8 hours ago
- Sport Minister congratulates NZ’s Paralympians
Sport & Recreation Minister Chris Bishop has congratulated New Zealand's Paralympic Team at the conclusion of the Paralympic Games in Paris. “The NZ Paralympic Team's success in Paris included fantastic performances, personal best times, New Zealand records and Oceania records all being smashed - and of course, many Kiwis on ...9 hours ago
- Government progresses response to Abuse in Care recommendations
A Crown Response Office is being established within the Public Service Commission to drive the Government’s response to the Royal Commission into Abuse in Care. “The creation of an Office within a central Government agency was a key recommendation by the Royal Commission’s final report. “It will have the mandate ...3 days ago
- Passport wait times back on-track
Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden says passport processing has returned to normal, and the Department of Internal Affairs [Department] is now advising customers to allow up to two weeks to receive their passport. “I am pleased that passport processing is back at target service levels and the Department ...3 days ago
- New appointments to the FMA board
Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister has today announced three new appointments and one reappointment to the Financial Markets Authority (FMA) board. Tracey Berry, Nicholas Hegan and Mariette van Ryn have been appointed for a five-year term ending in August 2029, while Chris Swasbrook, who has served as a board member ...3 days ago
- District Court judges appointed
Attorney-General Hon Judith Collins today announced the appointment of two new District Court judges. The appointees, who will take up their roles at the Manukau Court and the Auckland Court in the Accident Compensation Appeal Jurisdiction, are: Jacqui Clark Judge Clark was admitted to the bar in 1988 after graduating ...3 days ago
- Government makes it faster and easier to invest in New Zealand
Associate Minister of Finance David Seymour is encouraged by significant improvements to overseas investment decision timeframes, and the enhanced interest from investors as the Government continues to reform overseas investment. “There were about as many foreign direct investment applications in July and August as there was across the six months ...3 days ago
- New Zealand to join Operation Olympic Defender
New Zealand has accepted an invitation to join US-led multi-national space initiative Operation Olympic Defender, Defence Minister Judith Collins announced today. Operation Olympic Defender is designed to coordinate the space capabilities of member nations, enhance the resilience of space-based systems, deter hostile actions in space and reduce the spread of ...4 days ago
- Government commits to ‘stamping out’ foot and mouth disease
Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard says that a new economic impact analysis report reinforces this government’s commitment to ‘stamp out’ any New Zealand foot and mouth disease incursion. “The new analysis, produced by the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research, shows an incursion of the disease in New Zealand would have ...4 days ago
- Improving access to finance for Kiwis
5 September 2024 The Government is progressing further reforms to financial services to make it easier for Kiwis to access finance when they need it, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly says. “Financial services are foundational for economic success and are woven throughout our lives. Without access to finance our ...4 days ago
- Prime Minister pays tribute to Kiingi Tuheitia
As Kiingi Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII is laid to rest today, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has paid tribute to a leader whose commitment to Kotahitanga will have a lasting impact on our country. “Kiingi Tuheitia was a humble leader who served his people with wisdom, mana and an unwavering ...4 days ago
- Resource Management reform to make forestry rules clearer
Forestry Minister Todd McClay today announced proposals to reform the resource management system that will provide greater certainty for the forestry sector and help them meet environmental obligations. “The Government has committed to restoring confidence and certainty across the sector by removing unworkable regulatory burden created by the previous ...4 days ago
- More choice and competition in building products
A major shake-up of building products which will make it easier and more affordable to build is on the way, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says. “Today we have introduced legislation that will improve access to a wider variety of quality building products from overseas, giving Kiwis more choice and ...4 days ago
- Joint Statement between the Republic of Korea and New Zealand 4 September 2024, Seoul
On the occasion of the official visit by the Right Honourable Prime Minister Christopher Luxon of New Zealand to the Republic of Korea from 4 to 5 September 2024, a summit meeting was held between His Excellency President Yoon Suk Yeol of the Republic of Korea (hereinafter referred to as ...5 days ago
- Comprehensive Strategic Partnership the goal for New Zealand and Korea
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon held a bilateral meeting today with the President of the Republic of Korea, Yoon Suk Yeol. “Korea and New Zealand are likeminded democracies and natural partners in the Indo Pacific. As such, we have decided to advance discussions on elevating the bilateral relationship to a Comprehensive ...5 days ago
- International tourism continuing to bounce back
Results released today from the International Visitor Survey (IVS) confirm international tourism is continuing to bounce back, Tourism and Hospitality Minister Matt Doocey says. The IVS results show that in the June quarter, international tourism contributed $2.6 billion to New Zealand’s economy, an increase of 17 per cent on last ...5 days ago
- Government confirms RMA reforms to drive primary sector efficiency
The Government is moving to review and update national level policy directives that impact the primary sector, as part of its work to get Wellington out of farming. “The primary sector has been weighed down by unworkable and costly regulation for too long,” Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says. “That is ...5 days ago
- Weak grocery competition underscores importance of cutting red tape
The first annual grocery report underscores the need for reforms to cut red tape and promote competition, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly says. “The report paints a concerning picture of the $25 billion grocery sector and reinforces the need for stronger regulatory action, coupled with an ambitious, economy-wide ...5 days ago
- Government moves to lessen burden of reliever costs on ECE services
Associate Education Minister David Seymour says the Government has listened to the early childhood education sector’s calls to simplify paying ECE relief teachers. Today two simple changes that will reduce red tape for ECEs are being announced, in the run-up to larger changes that will come in time from the ...6 days ago
- Over 2,320 people engage with first sector regulatory review
Regulation Minister David Seymour says there has been a strong response to the Ministry for Regulation’s public consultation on the early childhood education regulatory review, affirming the need for action in reducing regulatory burden. “Over 2,320 submissions have been received from parents, teachers, centre owners, child advocacy groups, unions, research ...6 days ago
- Government backs women in horticulture
“The Government is empowering women in the horticulture industry by funding an initiative that will support networking and career progression,” Associate Minister of Agriculture, Nicola Grigg says. “Women currently make up around half of the horticulture workforce, but only 20 per cent of leadership roles which is why initiatives like this ...6 days ago
- Government to pause freshwater farm plan rollout
The Government will pause the rollout of freshwater farm plans until system improvements are finalised, Agriculture Minister Todd McClay, Environment Minister Penny Simmonds and Associate Environment Minister Andrew Hoggard announced today. “Improving the freshwater farm plan system to make it more cost-effective and practical for farmers is a priority for this ...6 days ago
- Milestone reached for fixing the Holidays Act 2003
Minister for Workplace Relations and Safety Brooke van Velden says yesterday Cabinet reached another milestone on fixing the Holidays Act with approval of the consultation exposure draft of the Bill ready for release next week to participants. “This Government will improve the Holidays Act with the help of businesses, workers, and ...6 days ago
- New priorities to protect future of conservation
Toitū te marae a Tāne Mahuta me Hineahuone, toitū te marae a Tangaroa me Hinemoana, toitū te taiao, toitū te tangata. The Government has introduced clear priorities to modernise Te Papa Atawhai - The Department of Conservation’s protection of our natural taonga. “Te Papa Atawhai manages nearly a third of our ...6 days ago
- Faster 110km/h speed limit to accelerate Kāpiti
A new 110km/h speed limit for the Kāpiti Expressway Road of National Significance (RoNS) has been approved to reduce travel times for Kiwis travelling in and out of Wellington, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Boosting economic growth and productivity is a key part of the Government’s plan to rebuild the economy. ...6 days ago
- IVL increase to ensure visitors contribute more to New Zealand
The International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) will be raised to $100 to ensure visitors contribute to public services and high-quality experiences while visiting New Zealand, Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Matt Doocey and Minister of Conservation Tama Potaka say. “The Government is serious about enabling the tourism sector ...7 days ago
- Delivering priority connections for the West Coast
A record $255 million for transport investment on the West Coast through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will strengthen the region’s road and rail links to keep people connected and support the region’s economy, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “The Government is committed to making sure that every ...1 week ago
- Road and rail reliability a focus for Wellington
A record $3.3 billion of transport investment in Greater Wellington through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will increase productivity and reduce travel times, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Delivering infrastructure to increase productivity and economic growth is a priority for our Government. We're focused on delivering transport projects ...1 week ago
- Record investment to boost economic and housing growth in the Waikato
A record $1.9 billion for transport investment in the Waikato through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will create a more efficient, safe, and resilient roading network that supports economic growth and productivity, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “With almost a third of the country’s freight travelling into, out ...1 week ago
- Building reliable and efficient roading for Taranaki
A record $808 million for transport investment in Taranaki through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will support economic growth and productivity, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Taranaki’s roads carry a high volume of freight from primary industries and it’s critical we maintain efficient connections across the region to ...1 week ago
- Supporting growth and resilience in Otago and Southland
A record $1.4 billion for transport investment in Otago and Southland through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will create a more resilient and efficient network that supports economic growth and productivity, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Transport is a critical enabler for economic growth and productivity in Otago ...1 week ago
- Delivering connected and resilient roading for Northland
A record $991 million for transport investment in Northland through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will strengthen the region’s connections and support economic growth and productivity, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “We are committed to making sure that every transport dollar is spent wisely on the projects and ...1 week ago
- Top of the South to benefit from reliable transport infrastructure
A record $479 million for transport investment across the top of the South Island through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will build a stronger road network that supports primary industries and grows the economy, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “We’re committed to making sure that every dollar is ...1 week ago
- Government delivering reliable roads for Manawatū-Whanganui
A record $1.6 billion for transport investment in Manawatū-Whanganui through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will strengthen the region’s importance as a strategic freight hub that boosts economic growth, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Delivering infrastructure to increase productivity and economic growth is a priority for our Government. ...1 week ago
- Restoring connections in Hawke’s Bay
A record $657 million for transport investment in the Hawke’s Bay through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will support recovery from cyclone damage and build greater resilience into the network to support economic growth and productivity, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “We are committed to making sure that ...1 week ago
- Transport resilience a priority for Gisborne
A record $255 million for transport investment in Gisborne through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will support economic growth and restore the cyclone-damaged network, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “With $255 million of investment over the next three years, we are committed to making sure that every transport ...1 week ago
- Prioritising growth and reduced travel times in Canterbury
A record $1.8 billion for transport investment Canterbury through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will boost economic growth and productivity and reduce travel times, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Christchurch is the economic powerhouse of the South Island, and transport is a critical enabler for economic growth and ...1 week ago
- Supporting growth and freight in the Bay of Plenty
A record $1.9 billion for transport investment in the Bay of Plenty through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will boost economic growth and unlock land for thousands of houses, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Transport is a critical enabler for economic growth and productivity in the Bay of ...1 week ago
- Getting transport back on track in Auckland
A record $8.4 billion for transport investment in Auckland through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will deliver the infrastructure our rapidly growing region needs to support economic growth and reduce travel times, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Aucklanders rejected the previous government’s transport policies which resulted in non-delivery, phantoms projects, ...1 week ago
- ‘Didn’t care enough’: here’s what the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide foun...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ben Wadham, Professor, Director, Open Door: Understanding and Supporting Service Personnel and their Families, Flinders University After three years of investigations, the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide has delivered its final report with 122 recommendations. The commission has carried much ...50 mins ago - What is 3-phase power? And how do I know if my house needs it?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Asma Aziz, Senior Lecturer in Power Engineering, Edith Cowan University If you’re building, renovating or planning to install a solar battery, your builder or installer might ask whether you’ve considered upgrading from single-phase to three-phase power. This upgrade often comes with a ...2 hours ago
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Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Evangeline Mantzioris, Program Director of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Accredited Practising Dietitian, University of South Australia Dr. Victor Wong/Shutterstock MSG is making a comeback. The internet’s favourite cucumber salad recipe includes fish sauce, cucumber, garlic and – as the video’s creator ...3 hours ago
- South Australia is proposing a law to ban kids under 14 from social media. How would it work?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lisa M. Given, Professor of Information Sciences & Director, Social Change Enabling Impact Platform, RMIT University Artie Medvedev/Shutterstock The South Australian government is moving ahead with plans to ban children under 14 from social media. Under the proposal, teens aged 14 ...3 hours ago
- Australia’s construction industry needs more hands on deck – so why is it ignoring skilled migra...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Martin Loosemore, Professor of Construction Management, University of Technology Sydney Shutterstock Australia’s construction industry is facing a perfect storm: enormous targets for building – 1.2 million new homes and A$230 billion worth of infrastructure over the next five years – at ...3 hours ago
- At Melaka Art & Performance Festival I watched dancers overcome by a trance in the rain, and the...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jonathan W. Marshall, Associate Professor & Postgraduate Research Coordinator, Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, Edith Cowan University Feifei Liao performing in the village ruins. Photo by and courtesy of Teo Swee An. Melbourne-based Tony Yap is a leading figure in ...3 hours ago
- Google is facing another crucial court case in the US – and it could have major consequences for o...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Barbora Jedlickova, Senior Lecturer, School of Law, The University of Queensland One month after a US court ruled Google had illegally maintained its monopoly on internet search, the tech giant will this week face the start of yet another important antitrust case. ...4 hours ago
- Christopher Luxon refuses to speak about Treaty Principles Bill after it was handed to Cabinet
The Prime Minister says ACT leader David Seymour will have more to say on the Bill soon. ...4 hours ago - Jesus’s vision fulfilled: David Seymour restores unity to the church
The Christian church has had quite a few dust-ups with itself over the last 20 centuries. This week, the Act Party brought it together. Since Jesus prayed that his followers may all be one (John 17:20-21), Christians have barely stopped fighting. Yes, they’ve occasionally broken off to slaughter people in ...5 hours ago - PODCAST: The Politics of Desperation – Trump, Netanyahu, Maduro, Ortega
Podcast: A View from Afar with Paul G Buchanan and Selwyn Manning. Building upon recent episodes of A View from Afar, Political Scientist Paul G Buchanan and journalist Selwyn Manning discuss The Politics of Desperation. This episode flows on from our discussions about long transitions and the moment ...5 hours ago
- Pope Francis’ visit to Timor-Leste is powerful and symbolic, but also political
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Shannon Brincat, Senior Lecturer in Politics and International Relations, University of the Sunshine Coast Author provided, Author provided Timor-Leste has had much to celebrate recently. August 30 marked 25 years since the Popular Consultation – or “The Referendum”, as many call ...5 hours ago
- What’s the difference between a heart attack and cardiac arrest? One’s about plumbing, the other...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michael Todorovic, Associate Professor of Medicine, Bond University Explode/Shutterstock In July 2023, rising US basketball star Bronny James collapsed on the court during practice and was sent to hospital. The 18-year-old athlete, son of famous LA Lakers’ veteran LeBron James, had ...6 hours ago
- If we truly want our Paralympic athletes to shine, their coaches need more support
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andrew Bennie, Associate Professor, Health and Physical Education/Sport Development, Western Sydney University The 2024 Paris Paralympics delivered heightened attention and awareness of a pinnacle sporting event for para athletes. Australia has often set the standard for para sport, consistently achieving top ...7 hours ago
- New to streaming: What to watch on Netflix NZ, Neon and more this week
We round up everything coming to streaming services this week, including Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, Apple TV+, ThreeNow, Neon and TVNZ+. If you love celebs out of their comfort zone: Celebrity Treasure Island (TVNZ+, starting September 9) We’re back on the beach for a new season of celebrity ...7 hours ago
- Harris’ lead dips in national US polls and it’s very close in the key states
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne The United States presidential election will be held on November 5. In analyst Nate Silver’s aggregate of national polls, Democrat Kamala Harris ...9 hours ago
- Rewriting history: how the Treaty ‘principles’ evolved and why they don’t stand up to scrutiny
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jane Kelsey, Emeritus Professor of Law, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau Getty Images ACT Party leader David Seymour has said the goal of his Treaty Principles Bill is to stimulate an overdue conversation on te Tiriti o Waitangi/Treaty of Waitangi. ...9 hours ago
- Surge in non-disclosure agreements at Health NZ sparks Labour complaint
Nearly 70 staff at Te Whatu Ora have signed non-disclosure agreements since the end of November. ...9 hours ago
- ‘Numerous questions’, but Fiji govt sticks with new anti-corruption chief
By Caleb Fotheringham, RNZ Pacific journalist The Fiji government is backing the appointment of the country’s new anti-corruption chief who was under investigation by the office she now heads, which has left Fijians asking questions. Barbara Malimali — who was also the Electoral Commission chairperson — was revealed as the ...9 hours ago
- Pope Francis calls for end to tribal ‘spiral of violence’ in PNG visit
Inside PNG reports that Papua New Guinea is blessed with an abundance of natural resources, a proclamation even Pope Francis acknowledges. But Papua New Guinea is also challenged with socio-economic developments that do not reach the rural majority despite the presence of numerous extractive industries. The Pontiff in his remarks ...9 hours ago
- Anne Salmond: A Cabinet of principles?
The effrontery of David Seymour’s riposte to Church leaders over his Treaty Principles Bill is breathtaking. He accuses them of being undemocratic. When the Act Party took the idea of a referendum on Te Tiriti to a general election in 2023, it won just 8.6 percent of the vote. The other ...9 hours ago - Public feedback sought on new tolls for lower North Island
Consultation on the proposed tolling schemes for the Manawatū Tararua Highway and the Ōtaki to north of Levin highway is now open. ...9 hours ago
- A new festival celebrates the art of the picture book
Picture Me is a brand new book festival happening in Wellington and Christchurch between 11–28 September. Here’s the inside scoop on the international headliners and what they’ll be doing while in Aotearoa. A good picture book has a timeless quality: a story you don’t mind reading over, and over and ...9 hours ago
- Minister tried to hide NZDF criticism of boot camp comments
The criticism was revealed to RNZ in an official information act response, but new documents show Judith Collins asked for them to be redacted. ...10 hours ago
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The LIVE Recording of A View from Afar podcast will begin today at 12:45pm September 9, 2024 (NZST) which is Sunday evening, 8:45pm (USEDT). Building upon recent episodes of A View from Afar, Political Scientist Paul G Buchanan and journalist Selwyn Manning will discuss The Politics of Desperation. ...10 hours ago
- David Seymour hits out at church leaders over Treaty Principles Bill
The ACT leader says churches are abandoning their core beliefs, after 400 Christian leaders condemned his controversial Treaty Principles Bill. ...11 hours ago
- Some home truths about gene technologies
In response to criticism of proposed changes to our GM settings, scientist Revel Drummond says we should discuss the issue of regulatory change from a position of educated debate, not fear-mongering. New technologies often get pushback from sectors of society. In the 19th century people feared the unknown effects on ...11 hours ago
- Dane and Stacey on making travel a business, owning half a dog, and finding balance
Earning money while you travel sounds like a dream to many of us – so how hard is it to make the dream a reality? Travel content creators Dane and Stacey joined Kiwibank’s This is Kiwi podcast to talk about documenting their adventures online, and remembering to sometimes put the ...11 hours ago
- Councils’ credit ratings downgraded over debt, rising costs
A reduced rating will mean higher borrowing costs for two major city councils. ...11 hours ago
- Is America ready to elect a Black woman president?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Emma Shortis, Adjunct Senior Fellow, School of Global, Urban and Social Studies, RMIT University It’s the big question that has loomed over Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign from the start: is the United States ready for a Black woman president? I get ...12 hours ago
- Murdoch to Musk: how global media power has shifted from the moguls to the big tech bros
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Matthew Ricketson, Professor of Communication, Deakin University Until recently, Elon Musk was just a wildly successful electric car tycoon and space pioneer. Sure, he was erratic and outspoken, but his global influence was contained and seemingly under control. But add the ...12 hours ago
- Africa desperately needs mpox vaccines. But donations from rich countries won’t fix this or the ne...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joel Lexchin, Professor Emeritus of Health Policy and Management, York University, Canada Africa says it needs an estimated ten million doses of mpox vaccine to control this public health emergency. The situation is particularly concerning in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, ...12 hours ago
- Plot twist: how giving old graveyards new life as parks can improve our cities
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rob Stokes, Industry Professor, Environment and Sustainability, Macquarie University Camperdown Cemetery in Newtown, Sydney Rose Marinelli/Shutterstock Old graveyards are a forgotten land asset that can find new life as urban parks in crowded cities. As the density of our cities increases, efficient ...12 hours ago
- 91% of Australian teens have a phone – but many are not keeping their identity and location secure
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Yeslam Al-Saggaf, Professor in Computing, Charles Sturt University Halfpoint/ Shutterstock , CC BY Most Australian teenagers have their own smartphone. According to a 2023 survey, 91% of young people between 14 and 17 owned a phone. At the same time, ...12 hours ago
- Pay-by-weight airfares are an ethical minefield. We asked travellers what they actually think
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Denis Tolkach, Senior Lecturer, James Cook University Jaromir Chalabala/Shutterstock Imagine checking in for a flight with your two teenage children. At the counter, you are told that your youngest teenager’s suitcase is two kilograms over the limit. You get slapped with ...12 hours ago
- Popes were once confined to Rome. Now they travel the world – and Francis’ current journey is pa...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Darius von Guttner Sporzynski, Historian, Australian Catholic University Pope Francis is continuing the tradition of papal journeys, having embarked on the longest trip of his papacy yet to Asia and the Pacific. In recent decades, apostolic journeys have emerged as a powerful ...12 hours ago
- Inside the cold war between Live Nation and the Powerstation
Auckland’s best live music venue is feuding with the world’s biggest promoter. Only one side is willing to speak about what happened that fateful night in April. The artist is dressed in black, with a DJ and live drummer, and the crowd bobbing in unison to sinewy R&B. Footage from ...12 hours ago
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Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sara Walton, Professor of Sustainable Business, University of Otago Interpreting corporate reports on carbon emissions can be challenging. The current, adhoc approach to how businesses share this information makes it difficult to see whether they have set the right targets, have realistic ...14 hours ago
- Air New Zealand braces for turbulence
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sorry, but trashing the country is releasing untested patients. Lets be real here, while it was a fucking stupid thing to do, it doesn't impact the countries response to covid.
And having the details in an excel document is just stupid, if that is what turns out to be the case. The dude saying gone to great lengths to protect privacy is full of it.
67 days, no cases. Some trashing.
that's being fucking lucky.
How many more days needed before it's something more than just "being fucking lucky", in your opinion?
Face it, the dirty Nats need a real miracle, and Hooton’s not up to manufacturing one; too busy with damage control.
Better start praying
fucking lucky, 27000 isolated . 60 positive cases 4000 staff, nurses, cooks, hotel workers ,airline bus drivers, army police, all went home every night all carried on with their jobs next day, NOT 1 transmission 68 days without community transmission all the workers k now they are doing the right things only country with more than500 cases with no border transmission fucking fool
It's part luck, part leadership, part diligence by kiwi's, part the result of all the hard working people looking after the various systems in place (with a few exceptions – https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2020/07/coronavirus-one-new-case-of-covid-19-at-new-zealand-s-managed-isolation-facilities.html)…on it goes. Our health outcomes have been good, so far. The economic ones, no so much. (https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/money/2020/07/coronavirus-new-zealand-records-biggest-gdp-quarterly-fall-in-29-years-top-kiwi-economist.html).
Maybe the NZ government, having done relatively well on Covid-19 health outcomes (with help from the team of nearly 5,000,000), should now be taking a leaf out of those countries that are doing better on the economic front.
That said, I'll not support businesses, and political parties agitating for changes that could significantly jeopardise those health outcomes, but that's just me.
compared with the rest of the world the Government has done a VERY good job with covid19. Sure, we have had some luck and we needed a bit. If anyone thinks the covid19 response on NZ is a shambles then piss off to Melbourne, the US, Brazil or the UK and don;t bother coming back until the covid epidemic has done its dash.
The government has followed advice along one particular approach. The health impacts in terms of deaths per capita are the same as Australia (according to https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/), whereas our economy has contracted far more (https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/money/2020/07/coronavirus-new-zealand-records-biggest-gdp-quarterly-fall-in-29-years-top-kiwi-economist.html).
That's not a good comparison anymore – NZ has no known community spread, OZ has daily new cases almost equaling daily new cases at its peak – see the graph –
http://shorturl.at/vEKY7
Given the lag time between peaking on new cases and peaking on deaths, it's not looking good. The only silver linings are that 1) doctors are better at treating covid-19 now so case-fatality rates are lower and 2) the cases are centred in one state and city so it's easier to contain.
It's a comparison of real time data. The rest is speculation.
I agree, in principle. However the line is fine. Any relaxation of virtual isolation carries risks. But the economic damage being caused is going to be horrific.
Paddington Australia is a different economy it doesn't rely on 20% of its income from tourism.
Look at Victoria paddington.
I read your article and most commentary by economists were positive overall.
Hysterical scaremongering is what the National party have been indulging in ,Where has it got them.
Any one for burnt toast with marmalade.
Australia is indeed a different country. They have much greater challenges dealing with the health consequences of Covid than NZ, including a Federal system, a much larger perimeter, larger population and higher density population centres.
Maybe "a fine line" for some businesses and political parties, but not for me.
You're obviously comfortable with hundreds of thousands unemployed, and a debt to GDP ratio that will make your eyes water.
You’re obviously a simpleton who is comfortable with simplistic thinking and who expects others to be even simpler than you are. Most of your commentary on Covid and our response to the pandemic can be summed up as a binary opposite of death rate vs. economic crash. If you are really as simplistic as your comments suggest it begs the question what line of business you’re in.
You are obviously a simpleton who can’t distinguish between a binary approach and various points on a spectrum.
It is fairly obvious where on the troll spectrum you sit. You argue like a simpleton, you reply like a simpleton, but you are not a simpleton because you run a successful multi-national business group. So, you come here just to annoy people? Don’t be so obtuse.
That comment rather suggests my last comment hit the nail.
When I hold a mirror up to you and you react to the mirror image it is evident that you are missing the point. I have no interest in joining your simplistic discussion, and I didn’t for your information and in case you got confused about that, but I do have an interest in keeping the site free from obtuse commenters who don’t add much to the conversation and distract others with their obtuse reasoning and comments AKA trolls. Your main claim to fame is here is annoying people for no other reason than that you’re annoyed at what you’re reading. This is neither robust debate nor debate in good faith. If an intelligent person doesn’t want to lift their game here they are better off leaving the site. Moderators have more than enough comments to wade through and sift without having to read your obtuse frustrations as well. I hope this helps you decide how you want to continue on TS.
You clearly don’t have the capacity to follow even the simplest of conversations. You can try to hide that behind your moderators cap, if you choose. Meanwhile, the vast majority of conversations I engage in here are amicable and constructive. Time for you to take a good look in that mirror.
Yeah, I did not expect anything different from you but denial and putting it back onto me. This is your MO, i.e. throwing it back at the commenter (e.g. obtuse, simpleton, take a good look in the mirror, et cetera). It’s called deflecting and is a form of denial.
Oh, I see, you’ve edited your comment 🙂
Never mind, you obviously have not taken in one word I said, which is disappointing. I’m not wearing my “moderators cap” at the mo. As you can tell, I’m commenting here but you choose to see it differently. That’s the trouble with binary thinking, it leads to wrong conclusions.
Haven't mentioned 'unemployment', or 'debt to GDP ratio' – can only speculate about why you might be motivated to cast me as a comfortable villian.
Note that I haven't at any point suggested that your concerns about the economic impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic would cause you to prioritise the NZ economy over the health of NZers, nor would I.
For the record, I'm not "comfortable with hundreds of thousands unemployed" – simply reasonably healthy and wish to remain so. I will continue to support NZ businesses, but I’ve tended not to support businesses that might pose a significant risk to my personal health, and that’s unlikely to change anytime soon. Is there something about my position that you find unreasonable?
While NZ's projected debt to GDP ratio may make your eyes water, I can assure you that mine will remain dry. How high do you think that ratio will get; might we catch up to Australia's, the U.S., or maybe even Japan's?
https://worldpopulationreview.com/countries/countries-by-national-debt/
You mentioned 'fine line' in response to my comment about balancing economic and health outcomes. Fairly obvious I would have thought.
"obvious" – I think that's a fair word to describe which side of your fine line (“However the line is fine.” @1.1.1.3.1.2) each of us is on.
The question remains as to "why you might be motivated to cast me as a comfortable villian", not to mention my two questions @2:19 pm.
You responded to my comment about the line between health and economic outcomes and you can't understand why I mention economic indicators. Think about it.
"you can't understand why I mention economic indicators"
Now you're being obtuse. If you'd rather not answer my questions @2:19 pm then that's fine – no skin off my nose.
Btw the way, it’s clear from your brief comment @1:35 pm that you were flat out asserting that I was comfortable with higher levels of NZ unemployment and a higher debt to GDP ratio. I’m certainly not comfortable with the former, more relaxed about the latter.
"Now you're being obtuse."
Not at all. I made a comment about the line between economic and health outcomes. You repeated an expression I used, to which I responded with an example of an economic indicator. You then wrote " Haven't mentioned 'unemployment', or 'debt to GDP ratio' – ". I'd say it's you who is being obtuse.
"…more relaxed about the latter."
I'm not relaxed about either. An increase in the debt to GDP of the level being forecast, along with the collapse in GDP growth, the resultant unemployment and social consequences are indicating serious problems for NZ society down the track.
Meanwhile, we now have 24 hour police presence at isolation facilities.
“I’m not relaxed about either” either, but of the two I’m more relaxed about the debt to GDP ratio, because NZ is starting in a relatively good position.
If you still believe I'm "obviously comfortable with hundreds of thousands unemployed, and a debt to GDP ratio that will make your eyes water", then you're either delusional or simple.
Obviously I won't be on your 'side' of that binary 'fine line' 100% of the time, but I will do what I can, within reason, to use/support local businesses. I do have some genuine and (looking around the world) realistic concerns about the consequences of prioritising economic indicators over community health. I'll even admit to an element of self-interest in those concerns, but there's plenty of self-interest to go around, IMHO.
" because NZ is starting in a relatively good position. "
And will end up in a far poorer position. Along with unemployment etc also going in the wrong direction. Leaving a mountain of debt, and an economy struggling to generate jobs and growth to my children is not my idea of a happy place.
QFT
While I have some sympathy for your legitimate concerns, at the moment there's honestly no country I'd rather be living in than NZ. Maybe that will change – maybe it won't.
Our extant human civilisation has probably passed ‘peak rosy future‘, and still "We don't know how lucky we are…"
You should ask those in the medical profession what they think. You think that sabotaging infected people’s privacy and thereby undermining confidence in the health response is nothing to worry about?
Not just the medical profession, all professions with access to private information, I've done payroll work, plenty of access to individuals personal info, the fact an MP thought it was ok to release this. Appalling, accept it and take responsibility, Walker/Boag/Muller et al fuckef up.
It was terrible terrible in the weekend. Because of factors you mention.
What is terrible terrible about it today is only that their boy got his hand caught in the till.
The sanctity of the information is irrelevant to them today.
If this type of deliberate breach by an employee occurred in any medical practice or hospital in NZ the culprit would be dismissed the following day end of story.
And that medical practice or hospital would be sued for hefty damages.
Ah no …..very unlikely in NZ, just censure of the relevant staff plus formal apology is the usual.
Depending on the nature of the breach, it could also screw their HISO compliance. Basically they wouldn't be able to share patient data computer:computer with other services. An inconvenience.
But also, if the deliberate breach was from the service's premises or computer system, that would be theft/dishonestly obtaining.
It's mysterious appearance in Boag's personal email before she forwarded it was a fortunate communication anomaly by ARHT.
She trolled through the trust files, found the data and sent it to herself, I'm guessing
True all of that.
Also ask what the Privacy Commissioner thought. Ask what the expert in privacy law, barrister Dalziell, thought. Ask what the reporters are saying- their ethics were applied correctly in the case.
Now we have to find out what the fellow trustees on the Helicopter trust think, what Muller thinks, what the MoH think regarding 'trusted partners', what the Clutha-Southland National Party think, what the Clutha-Southland electorate thinks….
What the NZ electorate thinks……..
We have just heard that Walker is lawyering up, and that Muller is seeking Walker's sacking from National Party membership.
sorry infused but yes trashing! the successful Covid response is because of all of us having the confidence to follow the plan. setting out to dishonestly undermine that confidence really does put each of us in real danger. Covid does not follow the rules of our political game.
Infused – I have wondered with what? Can you enlighten us or don't you understand anything.
By the way is that a pop-up cardboard police figure with Walker or whoever one of the National's suits? Who is it and what is he standing by a police sign?
It is testament to this govt's ability, having to manage keeping the virus out of the country with one hand and having to defend themselves from ludicrous assaults from across the floor.
I think for once and for all, they have demonstrated they are more capable of dealing with this, and now that we can simply dismiss anything the opposition says from here on in, they should have a clear path to further success.
Kiddies, into the corner, the adults have got this.
By the way the documents were those of Auckland Helicopter Trust, not the govts, not sure how you manage to besmirch them with this when the CEO used her privilege to do this heinous job.
Some luck sure. And a lot of hard work and open honest communication. And when something needed doing, listening to everyone, especially the scientists and making decisions. I'd prefer that to politics as normal- obstruct, hide, BS and bluster.
Hipkins is savvy enough to keep tapping National's bleeding wound right through to the election.
Once Boag is in court we have just a little chance that her pastry-baked maggot empire will be cut open in court and served back to her.
That would stink, as well as steam.
Yep, I think Hipkins has the skills to play this issue right up to election day.
Mullers attempting to distance himself from it this morning, he would've been better doing that yesterday, instead, he tried to use it to discredit the Govt.
what's the legislation that means this would end up in court? Don't privacy breaches get dealt with first by the Privacy Commissioner?
The QC-led inquiry takes precedence, but the Privacy Commissioner can, IIRC, refer matters for prosecution if the breach is deliberate, egregious and material was obtained illegally. The Police have said they are waiting for a complaint, and I imagine the PC will wait on the QC's results.
Oh, but it was emailed to me on my personal account so was placed completely in my possession without me doing anything, I didn't intend to obtain it and the sender had good faith given my role as acting CEO. Therefore the material was obtained legally, if inadvertantly. /sarc
That "my personal email" is doing a lot of heavy lifting.
Explains the delays in putting out the statements. Lawyering.
Is it illegal to obtain but not illegal to distribute?
Have to say National (and NZF) are pretty good at this borderline illegal stuff.
Assuming Boag counts as "an agency" under the Privacy Act I suspect distribution would likely be illegal (pay a fine) but not criminal.
Whereas in some scenarios it might be criminally illegal to obtain it (e.g. using the receptionist's password when the office is empty), or just civil illegal (privacy act fine), or even legal if everyone had reasonable grounds and the thing "slipped through the cracks". But that would still be a privacy breach by the org, so maybe a fine for the org.
Three questions for Muller:
1. When he found out on Monday about this potential criminal act, why did he not immediately contact Michael Heron QC to simply put him on notice that information had been received but they would like a few hours to seek legal advice?
To sit on the information for nearly 30 hours is unacceptable.
2. Having already known for 30 hours and had time to allow his feelings to surface, when first interviewed late Tuesday afternoon where was today's anger and rejection of Walker??
Is it not obvious that this stance is now only being taken as a result of the extreme social media disgust and outcry?
3. Knowing what had occurred how could he hold his head up high on Monday afternoon and all through Tuesday and continue to call the government shambolic whilst posting several images and comments of him having a fantastic day!
…
Copied with permission from a post by Fran Farrant.
When even Kiwiblog regulars express visceral anger at their own Party by a ratio of about 9 to 1 … you know you're in troub.
Oh yeah. Farrar reports:
There is huge anger within the party at what Walker did.
CORRECTION: There is huge anger within the party that Walker and the mastermind Boag were caught.
EXACTLY 1000%
"Walker and the mastermind Boag were caught."
I thought they came forward?
Only way to go when you are forced into a corner
Buuuuut how were they forced into a corner? Heron had barely got started. And the only way he could have got to Walker was via the actual emails, which are protected under journalistic privilege and would actually require court action to force release. But Walker leaps forward to say "It me!" (at about the same time that Woodlouse states loudly, though no-one was asking "Wasn't me!") before anything other than a list of organisations who might have had access could have been filed. The timing doesn't make sense.
We know that Walker didn't have an attack of conscience over the weekend – he was still claiming that release of the names was justified by a) his racist claims regarding people coming to Southland for isolation and b) his contention that there had been a security breach because the list wasn't passworded.
This is an obvious sacrifice play – toss the ingenue to the wolves to protect someone higher in the ranks. Boag had to go as well to give credibility. However, she was Nikki Kaye's campaign manager until this morning. Why would she not pass on such a thing to Kaye? Or one of the more senior MPs like Brownlee? To give it to Walker defies logic.
She probably did but they didn't pass it on to the media.
Police Minister, Nash thinks there are more Nat MPs out there who were in on the action.
"mastermind Boag"
In the National Party, she's a mastermind. Which tells us an awful lot about the National Party.
Came forward? What caused that? A sudden dual rush of conscious? If you believe that you'll believe pretty much anything. The game was up, that's the only reason one folded & took the other with them
Almost every issue is argued along tribal lines. People will be outraged or defensive depending on whether they wear a red or blue shirt. It is tiresome and pathetic in many ways.
The pleasing thing about this issue is both sides are coming in hard against Walker and Boag. You can't survive if your own mates are calling for your head.
Walker and Boag are toast and good riddance.
Yeah … Orwell had a lot to say about the blatant hypocrisy, double standards & political expediency underlying partisanship. Especially when it becomes self-interested, authoritarian & cultish.like our contemporary Woke chums. A kind of aggressive neurosis (hiding secret shame & fear of cognitive dissonance) mixed with wholesale self-delusion.
;
"People who do really good stuff have flaws." – Barack Obama; October 2019
The road to hell is paved with good intentions (Proverb of mixed origin)
Or, just as often, self-interest & power-hunger carefully camouflaged as
"good intentions".
Most people would settle for feeling safe and secure. Maybe I could be persuaded (manipulated?) to march for that, if I didn’t feel safe and secure already. But I’m just not that ‘woke’.
One of my key motivations for regularly sniping at the Woke over recent weeks is the patent lack of safety & security forced on my very elderly Parents by Labour's tacit No Eviction policy. More than two & a half years of violent intimidation, bordering on a kind of domestic terrorism from their State House neighbour and, despite significant attempts at redress by concerned Police & Social Workers … nothing happening. This would be the Labour Party they've devoted most of their lives to.
That sounds miserable – hope you can assist your parents to improve their situation soon. Can't remember if this has come up before, but would it be worthwhile asking the local MP for help now?
In one fell swoop Hamish Walker has handed the leadership of National to Chris Luxon, should he want it. Muller is effectively gone, it's merely a matter of time now. National will be lucky to end up with polling numbers that Bridges was bringing them. Holding that % of votes will be a triumph now. Luxon can bide his time and position himself once in parliament to take the big seat when he is ready.
[I have changed/corrected your user name three times, as it appeared as an e-mail address, which is confusing – Incognito]
See my Moderation note @ 7:43 PM.
Muller seems to have changed tact this morning realising the damage it's caused their election campaign, yesterday he blamed the Govt for poor security and handling, he must have sobered up overnight and realised he needed to be on the right side of this.
The damage has been done and the Govt are going to get a lot milage out of this if they manage it properly.
https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/todd-muller-says-he-doesnt-want-mp-hamish-walker-run-again-after-covid-19-patient-details-leak
Labour, under Ardern's leadership, have resisted going for the lower hanging fruit or taking cheap political pot-shots.
I trust this continues. Better to emphasise their own strengths and 'wins' rather than get down in the mud with the others
There are ways to get leverage from something without wading in the sewer.
I think the more important issue here is the popcorn shortage I'm currently experiencing.
Panic buying That_guy. There's about 85 days to go and that's a lot of popcorn consumption. I have it on good authority that the popcorn makers have agreed to operate 24/7 for the next four weeks so the shortage is only temporary.
In the meantime try jellybeans. Not good for the teeth but better than nothing.
Walker/Boag. "What did we do wrong. Senior members of the party leak private details for political advantage whenever they feel like it". "Why us getting thrown to the wolves?". "It was OK for Bennett".
Farrar: "allowing the leader and health spokesperson to condemn the leak, without telling them he was the leaker, was beyond the pale."
A good keen man does Barry Crump in politics by being a secret agent though. He doesn't think "Hey, I must tell woodlouse & our interim leader, to get permission." He does macho instead. Rambo cloaked with James Bond is a good mix…
Does seem to be a spectacular own goal by the Nats. Still somewhat murky around the faction aspect of things – could be the faction that Muller represents see advantage in presenting as ethical/moral as well as moderate. He keeps pushing that view personally.
Then the dirty tricks brigade who believe all's fair in love & war try to leverage their position from within. So Muller gets caught between exposing them to demonstrate his strength in leadership, or not doing so because his caucus support isn't that strong…
Nashy's on the case. Thinks there's a few National Party MPs in on this.
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12346300
Does Colonel Comrade conduct espionage seminars for free as a party favour, or does he charge?
The Privacy Commissioner said that MPs were exempt from the Privacy Act and therefore cannot be prosecuted under the Act. (This morning on NZR.)
What! Statements made in the House are exempt but not those outside the House. Surely not?
The National Party sets a climate of Government denigration. Did Walker think he was pitching another arrow like his bosses to hurt the Government?
The line that Boag received the information because of her position has to be a smokescreen to cover a leakers backside. The information leaked was operational so shouldn't have been released to an executive, and certainly not via a personal email.
Yes, this seriously needs to be investigated. I won't be though. Bizarrely, the media are taking her at her word.
Unless the Leaker is in the MOHealth and is the same one who leaked the Homeless man, and sent his/her message to Boag?
I think the Nats are desperately trying to protect this source.
Is there a source though? I thought the whole story was made up?
vile uncertainty
The present National Party has determined and published loudly – via its Shamble Arrow – that it will undermine constantly and daily, the highly gifted Present Government.
As a result, we have no certainty as to whether Todd Muller himself, openly savaged and released Personal and Patient information to his numbers of colleagues.
Todd Muller, was determined to undermine everybody and anybody – not a member of National.
He certainly covered up quite a rotten lumps of filth for days..
vile uncertainty
The present National Party has determined and published loudly – via its Shamble Arrow – that it will undermine constantly and daily, the highly gifted Present Government.
As a result, we have no certainty as to whether Todd Muller himself, openly savaged and released Personal and Patient information to his numbers of colleagues.
Todd Muller, was determined to undermine everybody and anybody – not a member of National.
He certainly covered up quite a rotten lump of filth for days..
Must have have been getting advice and considering how much damage control was needed.
Had he had any level of honesty and integrity, he would have reported this on Monday.
To quote the late great Monsieur Talleyrand: "C'est pire qu'un crime, c'est une faute."
Morrissey – your Mr thingy Muller
"Was worse than a Crime – he is a Blunder !"
It reminded me of my evil Frau Boag – a bigger blunder is not to be found.
So Morticia has slunk out of her crypt once again. Lordy me that woman has no shame. Our Nicky must be wondering at the irony of all of this. The stupid young MP who picked up the info and ran with it is no different to the MP who taped his staff and lost his Blinglish seat. Doesn't the National Party have any decent people from its pool to gift these seats to.
What a disgusting state of affairs. Morticia needs the screws tightened to keep her permanently where she deserves to be.
Doesn't the National Party have any decent people from its pool to gift these seats to.
Bring back Richard Worth.
Mike sabin or Aaaron Gilmore available ? Wouldn't matter who as true blue nats vote for anyone representing the brand.
I go back to the 1970s in NZ politics although my involvement has seesawed between being very active to not active at all over the years.
This style of political skulduggery was introduced to NZ by one, Robert David Muldoon. He was known to play very dirty when it suited him. The Colin Moyle Affair was a case in point. He was also known to use the SIS to his personal advantage. Then along came Rogernomics and Ruthenasia and the style of 'dog eat dog politics' was cemented in for the next 30 plus years.
What we might be seeing now is the last gasping breath of Dirty Politics and under Ardern's guiding hand we will see a return to a principled and honest style of political management. If that is her legacy then bring it on and now!
NZ National seem to be trying to contain this and circle Ms Boag and Mr (whites only in Southland) Walker. My prediction is that National’s famous Dirty Tricks dept. is deep in this, and links to other National MPs and staff involved will eventually emerge.
I sincerely hope this time around more New Zealanders wake up to National’s patented two track strategy. Since “the Hollowmen” the evidence has been there, such leaks and incidents are NZ National SOP not some sort of aberration. Mr Hooton is now close to the Beehive folks, wake up time!
and…I don’t believe the “decent media” narrative in this Covid leak–the journos and owners want to keep their national aligned snouts in the Ministry, and avoid personal blowback. Publishing the list of 18 would have definitely crossed the line for many.
What that decent media that's been supplying the Boags and Hootens with soapboxes for year upon year…..surely not.
Hopefully the National Party’s looming thrashing at the election will, to paraphrase the General, bomb them back to the dark ages.
The Nats Board is meeting today around midday. They must
cauterisesack Walker now. To not do so would undermine Muller.How they deal with Boag will be more interesting. After all she is the past President and spokesman in all direction but now her credibility….
Shoosh pleeez
Hoskins Hootins and Herald
Have gone to Hell, each in their own Basket of Bowel slime
It's school holidays so M Hosking and Mrs Hosking are on holiday.
Michelle Boag is often referred to as “the former President of the National Party”.
But her roles in the National Party at the time of the leak were senior postions in both
the Auckland Central electorate team and was on the 2020 campaign committee for that electorate.
Did Nikki Kaye also receive the Covid Patients details?
Good point about the descriptors.
do you know if any journos are asking who else the info was sent to?
Morticia
Do you think we should get Frau Boag a blade from the Westpac Rescue Helicopter.
The Gracious Bank probably won't like things that Frau Boag has stuffed down her attire- as gifts for Giggly Muller.
I hope she loses greatly from this latest shit, but this too,
https://twitter.com/LewSOS/status/1280637035225595904
What I wonder is, where does this leave the rescue helicopter outfit. It relies on charitable donations from the public. It could be sued for allowing a breach such as this. Boag has history over questionable dealings with the trust, eg getting them to fly (a fully manned crew was required) to Waiheke to pick up her passport which she had left behind.
Perhaps the people whose names are on the list would care to sue the trust. And boag. They'll know who they are.
I know if my privacy was breached and my name used for political gain I'd want blood
The National Party cheerleaders Tova Obrien and Jesica Much- McCay will be struggling to find a positive spin on this, their much loved "Gotcha" style Journalism has just got them
I'm pretty sure they will try to frame this as strong leadership on the basis that Walker was gone within 24 hours
Michele Boag has thrown herself and Hamish Walker under a double decker Bus.
+1
While the National Party thinks our government’s COVID policies are a shambles.
The WHO has praised New Zealand’s response.
What does that tell you about the National Party?
“The people & government of #NewZealand, led by @jacindaardern, have shown #COVID19 can be overcome through commitment, action & vigilance. Testing, contract tracing & clear communication to the public are hallmarks of the country’s successful response.'
https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/coronavirus/122074593/coronavirus-world-health-organisation-praises-nzs-covid19-response
The World Health Organisation made this short video about New Zealand.
Feel good video. Portrays both NZ and the WHO is a good light – happy with that.
That's quite an emotional video for me Ed. Thank you for posting it.
We don't know how lucky we are to have Jacinda leading us.
Well. may be you and I do….but our own Fox news media and members of the opposition don’t.
Did Michael Woodhouse get his imaginary homeless hotel guest off Michelle Boags list.