Hopes and Dreams
Democrats for social credit is a political party with a radical plan: the rejection of New Zealand’s debt-based financial system in favour of a programme of contemporary social credit monetary reform. It’s a plan of new economics for a modern New Zealand society.
Heading for a Recession
Politicians are coy about using the term “recession”, but bank economists claim to be convinced that the housing slump and global credit crisis are leading us in that direction. The challenges of climate change, an ageing population and advancing debts exacerbate the situation. The language of bank economists is usually conservative but phrases such as “predator banks”, “recession” and “structural distress” are increasingly common. When economists talk like that, we should listen.
Local Govt Rates Inquiry report disappoints
The Independent Local Government Rates Inquiry panel has released its report. This provoked a brief flurry of media attention, a few mild comments from local authorities and an audible, collective sigh of disappointment from ratepayers.
A Matter of Perspective
How very reassuring it is to hear Dr Cullen report that there is no economic crisis looming on the near horizon. My cat and I will both sleep more easily. And yet, despite his soothing comments and generous budget, some niggling doubts remain that we are perhaps on the verge of a major “correction”. I suppose it is a matter of perspective.
The Right to Choose
As adults, we make choices on a daily basis. Our choices may relate to matters of great importance, or may be of a more modest nature. Whether we are choosing a bank or breakfast, we understand that we are entitled to make those choices, and that it is our right to make decisions for ourselves and for our families.
it is not easy for men to rise whose qualities are thwarted by poverty
‘it is not easy for men to rise whose qualities are thwarted by poverty’
Juvenal (55 AD – 127 AD)
My home electorate is Christchurch East, the seventh poorest electorate in New Zealand. As I go about my business here (shopping for groceries at the local supermarket, attending community meetings, walking the streets putting leaflets in mail boxes and so on) it occasionally strikes me how few of the locals walk tall, heads held high. A greeting is usually offered as I pass people on the street but few make the eye contact I have been accustomed to in other areas. I wonder why this is.
Funding our public health system
‘the health of the people is really the foundation upon which all their happiness and all their powers as a state depend’ - Benjamin Disraeli
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