Louise Upston. The Minister is under pressure to explain her actions A revelation that Ministry of Social Development prematurely suspended thousands of winter energy payments, places more pressure on its struggling Minister. Louise Upston is a member of the conservative wing of the National Party. I am not sure that she specifically adheres to the … Continue reading The need for Louise Upston to resign
Our lack of an African understanding: Part 2
See Part 1 here.New Zealand, like the rest of the world has much it can contribute to the development of Africa as a continent. Like the world there is also much we can learn from it. And in doing so, we help ourselves and the world New Zealand politicians say that they want to see. … Continue reading Our lack of an African understanding: Part 2
Our lack of an African understanding: Part 1
There is no doubt that much has been said, written, filmed, photographed or otherwise recorded about Africa. It is a continent of mystery, of sorrow, of immense potential and no small amount of misunderstanding. Especially misunderstanding. It’s billion or so people are amongst the poorest on the face of the planet. Its resources are amongst … Continue reading Our lack of an African understanding: Part 1
Reforming Ministry of Social Development
Ministry of Social Development is in bad need of a complete overhaul (Christel Yardley/Waikato Times) Ministry of Social Development (or as I sometimes call it, Ministry of Social Destruction) is responsible for the implementation of social services and advising the Government on social policy. As it has evolved so have the attitudes of those relying … Continue reading Reforming Ministry of Social Development
China’s very unwelcome missile testing in south Pacific
Chinese P.L.A. Navy ship Hengyang in Tasman Sea, 2025 (Australian Defence Force). Days after China fired the first of two missiles into the south Pacific, the fallout continues. It is the first time that I am aware of any nation deliberately test firing missiles in this part of the world. It follows an earlier incident … Continue reading China’s very unwelcome missile testing in south Pacific