thedailyblog--2020-03-24--The Warehouse – where everyone gets a virus

Number of covid19 cases in Aotearoa New Zealand : 102 As of 11.59 on Thursday , most of New Zealand will go into “ lock down ” .
People will be expected not to travel to work ; not to socialise ; and to stay home .
I will not be one of those people .
I work in a health-related industry and as such , have the questionable privilege of staying at work ; helping those who rely on me ; and not “ hunkering down ” with the majority of my fellow New Zealanders in the ( relative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is ok. As I told one of my colleagues when our Prime Minister informed the country we were heading for DefCon 3 , and later , DefCon4 ; “ Now we really start to earn our pay ... ” For most of Monday , we were busy contacting our clients ; liaising with family members ; and awaiting instructions .
Much of what we accomplished we did using common sense ; initiative ; and a bit of slow , measured panic .
Our clients will be safe .
They will be in lock-down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ backs .
As for our own vulnerability to this creeping , invisible , global horror… We don ’ t think about that .
Best not to .
This morning , as I scrolled through my Twitter feed for the latest info on covid-19 , I came across something which not only shocked me deeply – but which left me exasperated and utterly disgusted .
This ; An unattributed statement to the NZX said ; “ At this stage , it is more important than ever that we live up to our purpose of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ making sure that we show up for our communities in the way that they need .
In the past two weeks the group has seen unprecedented demand for essential items across all our brands .
Goods sold included essential items to prepare themselves for the mandatory isolation period of at least four weeks.
” Pejman Okhovat , CEO of The Warehouse said in a statement on 24 March ; “ We ’ re encouraged by the Government ’ s continued efforts to protect the health and wellbeing of all New Zealanders .
Today @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Warehouse stores and online site will remain open , with modifications , to ensure that you can continue to get the essentials and supplies you need .
We have always been there for our customers and communities when needed , and our team is doing everything possible to make sure that continues .
This includes continuing to provide essential products such as groceries , toiletries , winter essentials , blankets , clothing , stationery for home schooling and work from home needs .
Our online stores will also continue operating to provide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contactless delivery .
We are very proud of our team and the way they have cared for customers , themselves , and their families during this time .
Our team members will continue to do everything possible to help keep The Warehouse stores safe for everyone .
These modifications will include more frequent and thorough sanitisation of our stores , and strict personal hygiene guidelines being followed by all.
” You will be able to get the essentials and supplies you need from your local The Warehouse store , whether you ’ re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Click & Collect order .
We are practicing social distancing , and will be limiting the numbers of people in store .
We are looking after our team members We are protecting our team members with increased health and safety requirements .
Our commitment to ensuring nobody misses out goes beyond being adequately stocked for customers .
We value our team members and we have introduced a new COVID-19 care package for our team members , including the ability to apply for additional paid discretionary leave.
” It was mostly rubbish .
Very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of “ social distancing , limiting the numbers of people in store “ , “ strict personal hygiene guidelines “ , “ modifications “ , etc , were true .
How do I know this ?
Because I went and looked .
This morning ( 24 March ) , I visited “ Red Sheds ” at Upper Hutt , Lower Hutt , Petone , and Tory St. What I saw disturbed me profoundly and demonstrated the emptiness of the Chief Executive ’ s assurance .
There was uncontrolled entry to the store ; @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the floor .
But how well they stood out with all the other , similar-coloured signage , is questionable ; The tapes on the floor , by themselves , meant nothing ; Aside from which , customers in the narrow aisles – which are not two metres wide – meant theys were practically rubbing elbows when they passed each other ; The Lower Hutt Warehouse .
Again , uncontrolled entry .
Can you spot the covid-19 sign ?
The covid-19 sign , to the right of the entryway ; The much larger @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ; The self-checkouts were not two metres apart .
Nor was there evidence of “ frequent and thorough sanitisation ” promised by the CEO .
Customers were using the checkouts one after another ; Meanwhile , another retailer in the Westgate Mall , was doing things much differently .
Entry was controlled ; staff were wearing masks ; ‘ social ’ distancing requested ; At the Petone Warehouse , entry was controlled ; But those queuing in line were hardly two metres apart ; Unfortunately , the staffer at the door ( pictured @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recording the event than the futility of people queuing in line in close proximity to each other .
At Tory Street , in downtown Wellington , Warehouse staffers were controlling entry but the queuing customers were yet again in close proximity to one another ; And inside , at all checkouts , there was no evidence of queuing customers standing two metres apart ; Whatever “ assurances ” Warehouse executives were issuing to the public were in stark contrast to the reality .
Safety precautions were non-existent or inconsistent .
The layout of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Aisles were still narrow , forcing customers to close proximity to each other .
Their was no evidence of any form of sanitisation taken place .
In effect , for The Warehouse it was business-as-usual .
It is concerning the The Warehouse believes itself to be an “ essential service ” .
It is not .
It ’ s grocery line is a side-line to its product lines and would run out of stock faster than supermarkets .
Aside from which , its food line is limited to little more than what a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the company is “ trying it on ” .
At a time when a disaster is threatening the entire country , a bunch of executives thought it would be a clever idea to capitalise on and exploit people ’ s fears .
As First Retail Group managing director Chris Wilkinson put it ; “ If The Warehouse is [ able to ] open then , by rights , Briscoes almost certainly should be open , and if Briscoes is open , where does that place the likes of Mitre 10 Mega and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sellers ] of resilience products .
This creates an unfair playing field for other businesses who are all trying to do the right thing ” Damn right it does .
Imagine if all other stores closed , with only The Warehouse remaining open ?
That would not just constitute market dominance , but a near 100 % monopoly .
Briscoe ’ s managing director Rod Duke probably summed it up best ; “ We were not given any indication by anyone that if we chose to sell hand sanitizer and toilet paper we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the end of the day I think I ’ m a bit more interested in the safety and wellbeing of my staff rather than a few sales of toilet rolls.
” Not only would that create a monopoly position , but the nationwide lock-down would end up leaking like a sieve .
You have to wonder if New Zealanders are so barking shopping-mad that they would endanger themselves and others to pursue their recreational retail activties ?
It is beyond belief that so many people thought this could possibly be a good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a risk without adding another retail chain to the mix .
In fact , why have a lock down at all ?
Why should my clients have to lock down ?
Why should I care about my job to help others , facing a virus that – because of my own diabetes and age group – puts me in the vulnerable group ?
All so a bunch of self-entitled company executives can make a lucrative profit and a bunch of shopping-nuts can pretend the current pandemic doesn ’ t exist ?
!
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be providing winter goods to families in need – oh please spare me the hypocrisy .
They are not providing something for nothing .
They are selling goods .
The number of times families in need are used as an excuse by unscrupulous business interests has become a sick cliche .
Unsurprisingly , The Warehouse ’ s shares rose 42 % at one stage today .
How cynical can a corporate entity be , to be trading on a disaster to maximise their value ?
If New Zealanders want to thumb their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1918 influenza , so be it .
They can climb over the corpses of their countrymen and women to stand in line to go shopping .
Hopefully all those people who thought this was a good idea will be the first to go .
( Gives whole new meaning to the old phrase , “ Shop till you drop !
” ) In the meantime , I will carry on with my duties .
I have little choice in the matter .
In the following four weeks , my movements will be restricted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risk of doing their supermarket purchases for them .
I have to go out and hope no one coughs or sneezes at me .
Or I forget not to touch my face , just once .
Or I miss a spot when washing my hands .
It ’ s the same with my colleagues , and others in the health sector , police , etc .
If the Warehouse went ahead with its lunatic idea , my job would be that much harder .
The risk that the disease spreads further , engulfing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In fact , it would be inevitable .
Did I mention that because my partner works elsewhere , and we live apart , I won ’ t be seeing her for four weeks ?
But as long as The Warehouse can make a ‘ killing ’ with its profits… Well , that ’ s disaster capitalism working as it should , I guess .
I wonder if The Warehouse Group senior executives will be self-isolating whilst their staff are at risk of infection .
“ Take one for the Team ” , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
You just managed to make Simon Bridges look good .
Number of covid19 cases in Aotearoa New Zealand : 155 This afternoon ( 24 March ) , I put the following questions to the media team at The Warehouse ; I understand that The Warehouse intends to keep its outlets open for the duration of the Level 4 lock down , as you consider yourselves an “ essential service ” ?
Please advise how you intend to address the following ; 1 .
Social distancing in the aisles of Warehouse outlets , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2 metres width ?
2 .
Social distancing in queues outside main doors , where people tend to clump together ?
3 .
Keeping products clean after customers have picked up and touched them ?
The covid19 virus is estimated to live for 2 to 3 days on varying surfaces .
How will this be addressed ?
4 .
Will The Warehouse sell only essential goods ( grocery items ) or will customers be able to shop for any products they wish ?
At the time of publication , I have received no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Warehouse ’ s plans .
Beehive : New Zealand moves to COVID-19 Alert Level 3 , then Level 4 in 48 hours NZ Herald : Covid-19 coronavirus – The Warehouse says it will remain open during lockdown The Warehouse : An update from us on COVID-19 ( Coronavirus ) RNZ : Coronavirus lockdown – Is the Warehouse an essential service ?
RNZ : Four cases of community transmission of Covid-19 in NZ This blogpost will be re-published in five days on “ Frankly Speaking “ .
Reader ’ s comments may be left @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there ( Frankly Speaking ) .

.
.
24 March 2020
9.46AM
Number of covid19 cases in Aotearoa New Zealand: 102
.
As of 11.59 on Thursday, most of New Zealand will go into “lock down”. People will be expected not to travel to work; not to socialise; and to stay home.
TDB Recommends NewzEngine.com
I will not be one of those people.
I work in a health-related industry and as such, have the questionable privilege of staying at work; helping those who rely on me; and not “hunkering down” with the majority of my fellow New Zealanders in the (relative) safety of their homes.
Which is ok. As I told one of my colleagues when our Prime Minister informed the country we were heading for DefCon 3, and later, DefCon4; “Now we really start to earn our pay...”
For most of Monday, we were busy contacting our clients; liaising with family members; and awaiting instructions. Much of what we accomplished we did using common sense; initiative; and a bit of slow, measured panic.
Our clients will be safe. They will be in lock-down. My colleagues and I have their backs.
As for our own vulnerability to this creeping, invisible, global horror… We don’t think about that. Best not to.
Until…
This morning, as I scrolled through my Twitter feed for the latest info on covid-19, I came across something which not only shocked me deeply – but which left me exasperated and utterly disgusted. This;
.
.
An unattributed statement to the NZX said;
“At this stage, it is more important than ever that we live up to our purpose of helping Kiwis live better every day by making sure that we show up for our communities in the way that they need.
In the past two weeks the group has seen unprecedented demand for essential items across all our brands. Goods sold included essential items to prepare themselves for the mandatory isolation period of at least four weeks.”
Pejman Okhovat, CEO of The Warehouse said in a statement on 24 March;
“We’re encouraged by the Government’s continued efforts to protect the health and wellbeing of all New Zealanders. Today we wanted to let you know that The Warehouse stores and online site will remain open, with modifications, to ensure that you can continue to get the essentials and supplies you need.
We have always been there for our customers and communities when needed, and our team is doing everything possible to make sure that continues. This includes continuing to provide essential products such as groceries, toiletries, winter essentials, blankets, clothing, stationery for home schooling and work from home needs. Our online stores will also continue operating to provide those at home and essential businesses with contactless delivery.
We are very proud of our team and the way they have cared for customers, themselves, and their families during this time. Our team members will continue to do everything possible to help keep The Warehouse stores safe for everyone. These modifications will include more frequent and thorough sanitisation of our stores, and strict personal hygiene guidelines being followed by all.”
He added,
“Our stores are open, with modifications
You will be able to get the essentials and supplies you need from your local The Warehouse store, whether you’re coming into the store or completing a Click & Collect order. We are practicing social distancing, and will be limiting the numbers of people in store.
[…]
We are looking after our team members
We are protecting our team members with increased health and safety requirements. Our commitment to ensuring nobody misses out goes beyond being adequately stocked for customers. We value our team members and we have introduced a new COVID-19 care package for our team members, including the ability to apply for additional paid discretionary leave.”
It was mostly rubbish. Very little of Mr Okhovat’s claims of “social distancing, limiting the numbers of people in store“, “strict personal hygiene guidelines“, “modifications“, etc, were true.
How do I know this?
Because I went and looked.
This morning (24 March), I visited “Red Sheds” at Upper Hutt, Lower Hutt, Petone, and Tory St. What I saw disturbed me profoundly and demonstrated the emptiness of the Chief Executive’s assurance.
In Upper Hutt…
.
There was uncontrolled entry to the store;
.
There were signs referring to two-metred tapes on the floor. But how well they stood out with all the other, similar-coloured signage, is questionable;
.
The tapes on the floor, by themselves, meant nothing;
.
Aside from which, customers in the narrow aisles – which are not two metres wide – meant theys were practically rubbing elbows when they passed each other;
.
The Lower Hutt Warehouse. Again, uncontrolled entry. Can you spot the covid-19 sign?
.
The covid-19 sign, to the right of the entryway;
.
The much larger Bag Search sign, on the left;
.
The self-checkouts were not two metres apart. Nor was there evidence of “frequent and thorough sanitisation” promised by the CEO. Customers were using the checkouts one after another;
.
Meanwhile, another retailer in the Westgate Mall, was doing things much differently. Entry was controlled; staff were wearing masks; ‘social’ distancing requested;
.
At the Petone Warehouse, entry was controlled;
.
But those queuing in line were hardly two metres apart;
.
Unfortunately, the staffer at the door (pictured above) was more concerned with me recording the event than the futility of people queuing in line in close proximity to each other.
At Tory Street, in downtown Wellington, Warehouse staffers were controlling entry but the queuing customers were yet again in close proximity to one another;
.
And inside, at all checkouts, there was no evidence of queuing customers standing two metres apart;
.
Whatever “assurances” Warehouse executives were issuing to the public were in stark contrast to the reality. Safety precautions were non-existent or inconsistent. The layout of the stores have not been modified. Aisles were still narrow, forcing customers to close proximity to each other.
Their was no evidence of any form of sanitisation taken place.
In effect, for The Warehouse it was business-as-usual.
It is concerning the The Warehouse believes itself to be an “essential service”. It is not. It’s grocery line is a side-line to its product lines and would run out of stock faster than supermarkets. Aside from which, its food line is limited to little more than what a superette might provide.
It is clear that the company is “trying it on”. At a time when a disaster is threatening the entire country, a bunch of executives thought it would be a clever idea to capitalise on and exploit people’s fears. As First Retail Group managing director Chris Wilkinson put it;
“If The Warehouse is [able to] open then, by rights, Briscoes almost certainly should be open, and if Briscoes is open, where does that place the likes of Mitre 10 Mega and Bunnings who are also very strong [sellers] of resilience products. This creates an unfair playing field for other businesses who are all trying to do the right thing”
Damn right it does. Imagine if all other stores closed, with only The Warehouse remaining open? That would not just constitute market dominance, but a near 100% monopoly.
Briscoe’s managing director Rod Duke probably summed it up best;
“We were not given any indication by anyone that if we chose to sell hand sanitizer and toilet paper we’d be allowed to open… and at the end of the day I think I’m a bit more interested in the safety and wellbeing of my staff rather than a few sales of toilet rolls.”
Not only would that create a monopoly position, but the nationwide lock-down would end up leaking like a sieve.
You have to wonder if New Zealanders are so barking shopping-mad that they would endanger themselves and others to pursue their recreational retail activties?
It is beyond belief that so many people thought this could possibly be a good idea. Having supermarkets open is enough of a risk without adding another retail chain to the mix.
In fact, why have a lock down at all?
Why should my clients have to lock down?
Why should I care about my job to help others, facing a virus that – because of my own diabetes and age group – puts me in the vulnerable group?
All so a bunch of self-entitled company executives can make a lucrative profit and a bunch of shopping-nuts can pretend the current pandemic doesn’t exist?!
As for the notion that The Warehouse will be providing winter goods to families in need – oh please spare me the hypocrisy. They are not providing something for nothing. They are selling goods.
The number of times families in need are used as an excuse by unscrupulous business interests has become a sick cliche.
Unsurprisingly, The Warehouse’s shares rose 42% at one stage today. How cynical can a corporate entity be, to be trading on a disaster to maximise their value?
If New Zealanders want to thumb their noses at the worst pandemic since the 1918 influenza, so be it.
They can climb over the corpses of their countrymen and women to stand in line to go shopping. Hopefully all those people who thought this was a good idea will be the first to go. (Gives whole new meaning to the old phrase, “Shop till you drop!”)
In the meantime, I will carry on with my duties. I have little choice in the matter. In the following four weeks, my movements will be restricted to working with my clients and the risk of doing their supermarket purchases for them. I have to go out and hope no one coughs or sneezes at me. Or I forget not to touch my face, just once. Or I miss a spot when washing my hands.
It’s the same with my colleagues, and others in the health sector, police, etc.
If the Warehouse went ahead with its lunatic idea, my job would be that much harder. The risk that the disease spreads further, engulfing me and other healthcare workers would escalate. In fact, it would be inevitable.
Did I mention that because my partner works elsewhere, and we live apart, I won’t be seeing her for four weeks? But as long as The Warehouse can make a ‘killing’ with its profits… Well, that’s disaster capitalism working as it should, I guess.
I wonder if The Warehouse Group senior executives will be self-isolating whilst their staff are at risk of infection. “Take one for the Team”, eh?
Good on ya, Warehouse. You just managed to make Simon Bridges look good.
.
24 March 2020
Number of covid19 cases in Aotearoa New Zealand: 155
.
Postscript1:
This afternoon (24 March), I put the following questions to the media team at The Warehouse;
I understand that The Warehouse intends to keep its outlets open for the duration of the Level 4 lock down, as you consider yourselves an “essential service”?
Please advise how you intend to address the following;
1. Social distancing in the aisles of Warehouse outlets, most of which are far less than 2 metres width?
2. Social distancing in queues outside main doors, where people tend to clump together?
3. Keeping products clean after customers have picked up and touched them? The covid19 virus is estimated to live for 2 to 3 days on varying surfaces. How will this be addressed?
4. Will The Warehouse sell only essential goods (grocery items) or will customers be able to shop for any products they wish?
At the time of publication, I have received no response.
Postscript2:
The government has rejected The Warehouse’s plans.
.
.
.
References
Beehive: New Zealand moves to COVID-19 Alert Level 3, then Level 4 in 48 hours
NZ Herald: Covid-19 coronavirus – The Warehouse says it will remain open during lockdown
The Warehouse: An update from us on COVID-19 (Coronavirus)
NZ Herald: Covid-19 coronavirus – Warehouse claims inaccurate, MBIE says
RNZ: Coronavirus lockdown – Is the Warehouse an essential service?
RNZ: Four cases of community transmission of Covid-19 in NZ
NewstalkZB: Coronavirus lockdown – Warehouse, liquor stores to close
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.
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This blogpost will be re-published in five days on “Frankly Speaking“. Reader’s comments may be left here (The Daily Blog) or there (Frankly Speaking).
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= fs =


thedailyblog--2020-03-24--Panic buying should not be a surprise to anyone

Many of us are rolling our eyes and tut tutting as women fight in the supermarket aisles over rolls of toilet paper .
Sure it ’ s an ugly sight but before anyone jumps to criticise just remember that this is how we have conditioned people to behave as they absorbed the lessons from their lives under neo-liberal capitalism .
Look out for yourself and stuff your neighbours .
Remember how tens of thousands were thrown out of their jobs onto the human scrap heap in the 1980s and then condemned as bludgers and lay-abouts by successive governments .
Those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their incomes and standards of living dropped through the floor .
As cheap imports flooded on to the shelves of the warehouse , those who lost quality jobs in manufacturing were herded into low-paid jobs or unemployment queues .
Someone was to blame and a chorus of rich people , vile politicians and fan-club journalists blamed the victims .
There was no other way we were told and anyone unemployed could only blame themselves .
Somehow they lacked the character or “ moral fibre ” to find work .
Beneficiary bashing became a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The message to the community was to look out for yourself because the government couldn ’ t give a stuff .
Meanwhile the real bludgers , the likes of Bob Jones and Stephen Tindall , were knighted and celebrated .
They still pay a smaller proportion of their income in tax than a beneficiary does .
Wrestling over toilet rolls is the result of community breakdown .
We have a lot of rebuilding of community ahead of us .
Alongside a universal basic income for everyone , giving communities the power to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , loan sharks and pokie machines from their midst would be a good start .
Pious talk of “ being kind to each other ” and “ just shop normally ” will work for the ruling elite and the middle class but we shouldn ’ t expect anyone else to take the slightest bit of notice .

Many of us are rolling our eyes and tut tutting as women fight in the supermarket aisles over rolls of toilet paper.
Sure it’s an ugly sight but before anyone jumps to criticise just remember that this is how we have conditioned people to behave as they absorbed the lessons from their lives under neo-liberal capitalism. Look out for yourself and stuff your neighbours.
Remember how tens of thousands were thrown out of their jobs onto the human scrap heap in the 1980s and then condemned as bludgers and lay-abouts by successive governments. Those in jobs lost their bargaining power and their incomes and standards of living dropped through the floor.
As cheap imports flooded on to the shelves of the warehouse, those who lost quality jobs in manufacturing were herded into low-paid jobs or unemployment queues. Someone was to blame and a chorus of rich people, vile politicians and fan-club journalists blamed the victims. There was no other way we were told and anyone unemployed could only blame themselves. Somehow they lacked the character or “moral fibre” to find work.
Beneficiary bashing became a blood sport for National and Labour politicians. The message to the community was to look out for yourself because the government couldn’t give a stuff.
Meanwhile the real bludgers, the likes of Bob Jones and Stephen Tindall, were knighted and celebrated. They still pay a smaller proportion of their income in tax than a beneficiary does.
Wrestling over toilet rolls is the result of community breakdown.
We have a lot of rebuilding of community ahead of us.
TDB Recommends NewzEngine.com
Alongside a universal basic income for everyone, giving communities the power to banish liquor outlets, fast food joints, loan sharks and pokie machines from their midst would be a good start.
Pious talk of “being kind to each other” and “just shop normally” will work for the ruling elite and the middle class but we shouldn’t expect anyone else to take the slightest bit of notice.


thedailyblog--2020-03-24--It’s Almost Like The Neoliberals Don’t WANT To Survive The Crisis – On Brazen Talk Of “Acceptable Lo

It’s Almost Like The Neoliberals Don’t WANT To Survive The Crisis – On Brazen Talk Of “Acceptable Losses” To Re-Grease Wheels Of Economy

There is a quotation often attributed to Lenin , in which it is said that when it comes time to hang the capitalists – they will fall over each other to attempt to sell their executioners the rope .
Now , I do not invoke this axiom to attempt to urge a death-sentence against this Texan .
Going by his own words , he seems more than eager to initiate such a thing upon himself , in order to secure the delusory promise of a few days of scrounged together economic ‘ stabilization ’ .
For that is all that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ upon the proverbial dime and ditch physical/social distancing and lockdown protocols to go back to “ business as usual ” ( as Trump appears now keen to do ) … isn ’ t even a temporary uptick in economic activity – it ’ s just a brief arrest of the ongoing crisis-pandemic furthered decline .
Followed by an even more dramatic medium-to-long-term negative impact as the directly attributable result of heightened pressure upon their healthcare system and their workforce through illnesses , disorder , and deaths .
Some Americans in the political and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the malaise of a significant downturn in economic activity ( or even doing things differently when it comes to economic activity all up ) , that it is preferable to talk of quite literally “ sacrificing ” an entire generation in pursuit of its desperate avoidance .
They love largely illusory money ( for that is , ultimately , what so much of their stock-market , with its one point five trillion dollar devouring snackatite , actually is ) , and are prepared to fight to the death to defend it .
Human @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for filthy , filthy lucre .
To be fair and sure , Lt. Gov .
Patrick deserves some minimal modicum of ‘ credit ’ for being prepared to place himself – rhetorically at least – upon the chopping block .
And the issue is not his own willingness in principle to do something daft for his grand-children ; because there is something instinctual in the desire to protect one ’ s progeny and future lineage .
Dependent upon your personal ethical position , you may or may not also have a problem with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in this matter upon every OTHER grandparent in the nation .
But for me , it is quite simple .
Doing as these economic right-lemming kinds would wish , does not offer “ sacrifice ” in exchange for meaningful improvement in circumstances – either for their own generation , or for ours .
It shall not leave their country better off a week , three weeks , ten weeks , or twenty eight weeks later from now .
On the contrary , it shall almost certainly extend the misery .
Because ‘ delayed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ critical-thinking-child seeking pseudoconomic sugar-rush- ‘ stimulus ’ , is not how their minds appear to work in practice .
This , presumably , is a large part of how we seem to *keep* finding ourselves , every few years , crushed under the weight of “ too big to fail ” billion-dollar outfits and operators who can ’ t seem to keep themselves ticking over between largely self-authored crises sans massive government intervention upon their behalf .
A variable that requires no globe-spanning contagion other than the ideological one to repeatedly ensue !
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ beatup … it is important to note that many Americans find all of the above absolutely and axiomatically abhorrent .
And , perhaps more concerningly , that it is not only an American ‘ disease ’ of the mind of which we are speaking .
It was just a week ago that the European Union ’ s leadership was speaking about the necessity of a balancing act between preventing deaths on the one hand ( assumedly also encompassing to a certain extent deaths particularly amidst the older and less wealthy or physically hearty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the capitalist mill has increasingly less use for as time goes on … both their time in a personal sense , and the general time of the advancement of the economic epoch we presently endure ) … and preserving “ The Market ” and its accompanying actions and profits on the other .
It may be undeniably true that on a long enough time-line , everybody ’ s survival rate drops to zero … yet these kinds of “ acceptable losses ” wherein the time-lines of many are foreshortened considerably in order to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the few , is not so much “ natural selection ” as it is “ utterly inhuman ” .
Perhaps , in the not too distant and nightmarishly , overbearingly close future , it may be possible for finance-capitalism to exist sans humans .
It already seems to do largely well enough with just computers and the hive-like inhabitants of Wall Street , so some might suggest it ’ s endemically close enough .
Yet until that happens – and , indeed *especially* should that happen , it makes no sense whatsoever to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these demons are proposing .
If there is to be a “ sacrifice ” , turn it around – sacrifice a certain modicum of financier-cheque-book , to support the lives and the quality of lives of many ordinary and older people .
Except most peculiar , curious thing – it never seems to get offered like that , does it .
It ’ s always just the other way around .

There is a quotation often attributed to Lenin, in which it is said that when it comes time to hang the capitalists – they will fall over each other to attempt to sell their executioners the rope.
Now, I do not invoke this axiom to attempt to urge a death-sentence against this Texan. Going by his own words, he seems more than eager to initiate such a thing upon himself, in order to secure the delusory promise of a few days of scrounged together economic ‘stabilization’.
For that is all that would likely eventuate were America to turn upon the proverbial dime and ditch physical/social distancing and lockdown protocols to go back to “business as usual” (as Trump appears now keen to do) … isn’t even a temporary uptick in economic activity – it’s just a brief arrest of the ongoing crisis-pandemic furthered decline.
Followed by an even more dramatic medium-to-long-term negative impact as the directly attributable result of heightened pressure upon their healthcare system and their workforce through illnesses, disorder, and deaths.
Some Americans in the political and financial spheres, are more afraid of the malaise of a significant downturn in economic activity (or even doing things differently when it comes to economic activity all up), that it is preferable to talk of quite literally “sacrificing” an entire generation in pursuit of its desperate avoidance.
They love largely illusory money (for that is, ultimately, what so much of their stock-market, with its one point five trillion dollar devouring snackatite, actually is), and are prepared to fight to the death to defend it. Human blood and human deaths, in exchange for filthy, filthy lucre.
To be fair and sure, Lt. Gov. Patrick deserves some minimal modicum of ‘credit’ for being prepared to place himself – rhetorically at least – upon the chopping block.
And the issue is not his own willingness in principle to do something daft for his grand-children; because there is something instinctual in the desire to protect one’s progeny and future lineage.
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Dependent upon your personal ethical position, you may or may not also have a problem with his endeavouring to force his personal choice in this matter upon every OTHER grandparent in the nation.
But for me, it is quite simple. Doing as these economic right-lemming kinds would wish, does not offer “sacrifice” in exchange for meaningful improvement in circumstances – either for their own generation, or for ours. It shall not leave their country better off a week, three weeks, ten weeks, or twenty eight weeks later from now.
On the contrary, it shall almost certainly extend the misery. Because ‘delayed gratification’ rather than degraded prefrontal cortex critical-thinking-child seeking pseudoconomic sugar-rush-‘stimulus’, is not how their minds appear to work in practice.
This, presumably, is a large part of how we seem to *keep* finding ourselves, every few years, crushed under the weight of “too big to fail” billion-dollar outfits and operators who can’t seem to keep themselves ticking over between largely self-authored crises sans massive government intervention upon their behalf. A variable that requires no globe-spanning contagion other than the ideological one to repeatedly ensue!
And lest this seem like an anti-American beatup … it is important to note that many Americans find all of the above absolutely and axiomatically abhorrent. And, perhaps more concerningly, that it is not only an American ‘disease’ of the mind of which we are speaking.
It was just a week ago that the European Union’s leadership was speaking about the necessity of a balancing act between preventing deaths on the one hand (assumedly also encompassing to a certain extent deaths particularly amidst the older and less wealthy or physically hearty – you know, those for whom the capitalist mill has increasingly less use for as time goes on … both their time in a personal sense, and the general time of the advancement of the economic epoch we presently endure) … and preserving “The Market” and its accompanying actions and profits on the other.
It may be undeniably true that on a long enough time-line, everybody’s survival rate drops to zero … yet these kinds of “acceptable losses” wherein the time-lines of many are foreshortened considerably in order to secure temporary reprieve for the stock-portfolios of the few, is not so much “natural selection” as it is “utterly inhuman”.
Perhaps, in the not too distant and nightmarishly, overbearingly close future, it may be possible for finance-capitalism to exist sans humans. It already seems to do largely well enough with just computers and the hive-like inhabitants of Wall Street, so some might suggest it’s endemically close enough.
Yet until that happens – and, indeed *especially* should that happen, it makes no sense whatsoever to value dollars above lives in the manner these demons are proposing.
If there is to be a “sacrifice”, turn it around – sacrifice a certain modicum of financier-cheque-book, to support the lives and the quality of lives of many ordinary and older people.
Except most peculiar, curious thing – it never seems to get offered like that, does it. It’s always just the other way around.


thedailyblog--2020-03-25--It’s Time For Disaster Socialism

It’s Time For Disaster Socialism

“ NEVER LET A CRISIS go to waste.
” That was the key take-out from Naomi Klein ’ s 2007 book , The Shock Doctrine : The Rise of Disaster Capitalism .
Remember the stories ?
Who could forget the one about the way the American Right took advantage of Hurricane Katrina ?
How it looked upon the tragedy of New Orleans ’ flooded public schools , and saw only a heaven-sent opportunity to privatise the city ’ s education system .
I know Jacinda wants us all to “ Unite Against Covid-19 ” , but I also know that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feverishly to protect , defend and if possible extend their gains of the past 35 years .
The neoliberal elites survived the Global Financial Crisis of 2008-09 , and they are absolutely determined to survive the Global Pandemic of 2020 .
That can not be allowed to happen .
The Left must drive the stake so deep into Neoliberalism ’ s black heart that , this time , it does not get up .
What ’ s needed now is “ Disaster Socialism ” .
Last December , contemplating the rout of Jeremy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ observed : A democratic-socialist leader possessed of a sophisticated strategic sense would understand that election manifestos are best restricted to promoting policies that the electorate actually wants – not policies his ( or her ) comrades believe the electorate should want .
Let the drift of events – economically and socially – propel the party in directions which the capitalists may not like , but which they no longer feel able to redirect .
Most importantly , identify the one reform most likely to undermine the institutions upon which their opponents ’ rely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ early , fast , and without compromise .
In the context of the current crisis , the “ drift of events ” is pushing the Coalition Government inexorably towards introducing some form of Universal Basic Income ( UBI ) .
Finance Minister Grant Robertson has ( very wisely ) refused to rule out such a measure .
Indeed , it is difficult to see how preventing a precipitous descent into mass poverty and significant social dislocation can be avoided without some form of UBI .
If Jacinda and her colleagues wish to avoid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of mass civil unrest that characterised 1932 – the darkest year of the Great Depression – when angry crowds of desperate unemployed smashed-up Auckland ’ s Queens Street and fought running battles with the Police , then constructing some form of income floor for the population to stand on is pretty much unavoidable .
The beauty of the rising clamour for a UBI is that it is not actually coming from the Government .
Rather , it is bubbling-up ( as all great social reforms should ) from below , as thoughtful people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into which New Zealand ’ s economy will disappear if some form of income guarantee is not introduced – and quickly .
Even more beautiful than the genuinely popular nature of the demand for a UBI , is the fact that the voices of the capitalists themselves – especially the smaller ones – are joining in the clamour for change .
They know that the thing they have to fear the most is ( as Franklin Roosevelt rightly observed in March 1933 ) “ fear itself ” .
When people lose all confidence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ calamity assailing them , their whole mind and body are attuned to only one thing – survival .
Their own and their family ’ s future fades to black .
“ Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.
” In times like these the most important thing a government can do is give people hope .
And , in the midst of an economic catastrophe : hope = money .
If the people have no hope – no money – they can not and will not spend .
Every capitalist with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ impoverished consumers must put at risk the entire capitalist system .
That ’ s why they , too , however reluctantly , are coming to the conclusion that the introduction of some sort of UBI is inevitable .
Ironically , this leaves Neoliberal Capitalism ’ s official spokesperson , Simon Bridges , off-side with a growing number of capitalists .
His objection to the introduction of a UBI is that once introduced it will instantly become a permanent fixture of the twenty-first century welfare state .
Abolishing it will be politically impossible .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A UBI , like Mickey Savage ’ s “ social security ” , is one of those reforms which the Right must , at almost any cost , prevent , because once it ’ s in , it ’ s in for good .
National ’ s wartime leader , Sid Holland , came to this realisation only slowly .
He had to be beaten three times at the ballot box before he was ready to reassure the electorate that Social Security would be safe under National .
Clearly , Bridges knows @ @ @ @ @ @ @ history to grasp the importance of heading a UBI off at the pass .
And , when I use the expression “ at almost any cost ” , I ’ m not exaggerating .
So appalled was the New Zealand Right at the prospect of Social Security coming into force that , on 2 February 1939 , one of their number poured petrol over the timbers of the half-constructed Social Security Building in Aitken Street , not far from Parliament Buildings , and set them alight .
The resulting blaze lit up Wellington @ @ @ @ @ @ @ construction site to ashes .
Not that Mickey Savage and the people who had just re-elected the Labour Government were deflected by the arson in Aitken Street .
The Government , private builders and the construction unions , working together , took only weeks to construct a new Social Security headquarters .
It was opened by the Prime Minister on 27 March – just five days from the coming into force of the Social Security Act on 1 April 1939 .
Similar determination is now required of Jacinda and her government .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ both reassure and economically support an anxious nation .
She has the power to meet the people ’ s need – and she must use it .
If calling the reform UBI is a problem , then for God ’ s sake call it something else !
But get it in place , Jacinda .
Let Bridges and all the other neoliberal ideologues howl .
After all , how much attention did they pay to the howls of protest that greeted Rogernomics and Ruthanasia ?
What goes around , comes around .
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all emerge into the sunlight , the emergency measures will need to be given permanent legislative form .
To accommodate this reform many other things will have change – not least our taxation system .
A UBI will require the One Percent to pay their fair share .
Something they haven ’ t done since the early 1980s .
Employers will also face changes .
No longer in fear of “ the sack ” , their employees will demand a fairer distribution of the surplus they create : more for the workers , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will thus unleash a torrent of innovation and creativity – helping as nothing else can the rehabilitation of New Zealand ’ s stricken economy .
The disaster of the Great Depression was transformed into a new and fairer society by the democratic socialism of the First Labour Government .
The disaster of the Covid-19 Pandemic offers a similar transformative possibility to the Labour-NZ First-Green Government .
Seize the time , Jacinda !
You will never have a better opportunity to be strong , to be kind , and to make it okay for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ endured so much .
Let ’ s do this !
Now !

“NEVER LET A CRISIS go to waste.” That was the key take-out from Naomi Klein’s 2007 book, The Shock Doctrine: The Rise of Disaster Capitalism. Remember the stories? Who could forget the one about the way the American Right took advantage of Hurricane Katrina? How it looked upon the tragedy of New Orleans’ flooded public schools, and saw only a heaven-sent opportunity to privatise the city’s education system.
I know Jacinda wants us all to “Unite Against Covid-19”, but I also know that out there the One Percent are working feverishly to protect, defend and if possible extend their gains of the past 35 years. The neoliberal elites survived the Global Financial Crisis of 2008-09, and they are absolutely determined to survive the Global Pandemic of 2020. That cannot be allowed to happen. The Left must drive the stake so deep into Neoliberalism’s black heart that, this time, it does not get up. What’s needed now is “Disaster Socialism”.
Last December, contemplating the rout of Jeremy Corbyn’s Labour Party, I observed:
A democratic-socialist leader possessed of a sophisticated strategic sense would understand that election manifestos are best restricted to promoting policies that the electorate actually wants – not policies his (or her) comrades believe the electorate should want. Let the drift of events – economically and socially – propel the party in directions which the capitalists may not like, but which they no longer feel able to redirect. Most importantly, identify the one reform most likely to undermine the institutions upon which their opponents’ rely most heavily for protection. Implement it early, fast, and without compromise.
In the context of the current crisis, the “drift of events” is pushing the Coalition Government inexorably towards introducing some form of Universal Basic Income (UBI). Finance Minister Grant Robertson has (very wisely) refused to rule out such a measure. Indeed, it is difficult to see how preventing a precipitous descent into mass poverty and significant social dislocation can be avoided without some form of UBI.
If Jacinda and her colleagues wish to avoid New Zealand spiralling down into the sort of mass civil unrest that characterised 1932 – the darkest year of the Great Depression – when angry crowds of desperate unemployed smashed-up Auckland’s Queens Street and fought running battles with the Police, then constructing some form of income floor for the population to stand on is pretty much unavoidable.
The beauty of the rising clamour for a UBI is that it is not actually coming from the Government. Rather, it is bubbling-up (as all great social reforms should) from below, as thoughtful people look ahead and see the black hole into which New Zealand’s economy will disappear if some form of income guarantee is not introduced – and quickly.
(Which is not to say that Robertson will not be finding it difficult to suppress a wry chuckle. Remembering the derisive reception the UBI option received when it emerged from Labour’s 2016 “Future of Work” discussions, he will no doubt be thinking “what goes around, comes around”!)
TDB Recommends NewzEngine.com
Even more beautiful than the genuinely popular nature of the demand for a UBI, is the fact that the voices of the capitalists themselves – especially the smaller ones – are joining in the clamour for change. They know that the thing they have to fear the most is (as Franklin Roosevelt rightly observed in March 1933) “fear itself”.
When people lose all confidence in their ability to escape the economic calamity assailing them, their whole mind and body are attuned to only one thing – survival. Their own and their family’s future fades to black. “Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.” In times like these the most important thing a government can do is give people hope. And, in the midst of an economic catastrophe: hope = money. If the people have no hope – no money – they cannot and will not spend. Every capitalist with a brain knows this. They know that impoverished consumers must put at risk the entire capitalist system. That’s why they, too, however reluctantly, are coming to the conclusion that the introduction of some sort of UBI is inevitable.
Ironically, this leaves Neoliberal Capitalism’s official spokesperson, Simon Bridges, off-side with a growing number of capitalists. His objection to the introduction of a UBI is that once introduced it will instantly become a permanent fixture of the twenty-first century welfare state. Abolishing it will be politically impossible. He’s right, of course. A UBI, like Mickey Savage’s “social security”, is one of those reforms which the Right must, at almost any cost, prevent, because once it’s in, it’s in for good. National’s wartime leader, Sid Holland, came to this realisation only slowly. He had to be beaten three times at the ballot box before he was ready to reassure the electorate that Social Security would be safe under National. Clearly, Bridges knows enough of his own party’s history to grasp the importance of heading a UBI off at the pass.
And, when I use the expression “at almost any cost”, I’m not exaggerating. So appalled was the New Zealand Right at the prospect of Social Security coming into force that, on 2 February 1939, one of their number poured petrol over the timbers of the half-constructed Social Security Building in Aitken Street, not far from Parliament Buildings, and set them alight. The resulting blaze lit up Wellington’s night sky and reduced the construction site to ashes. Not that Mickey Savage and the people who had just re-elected the Labour Government were deflected by the arson in Aitken Street. The Government, private builders and the construction unions, working together, took only weeks to construct a new Social Security headquarters. It was opened by the Prime Minister on 27 March – just five days from the coming into force of the Social Security Act on 1 April 1939.
Similar determination is now required of Jacinda and her government. The present crisis demands a bold measure to both reassure and economically support an anxious nation. She has the power to meet the people’s need – and she must use it. If calling the reform UBI is a problem, then for God’s sake call it something else! But get it in place, Jacinda. Let Bridges and all the other neoliberal ideologues howl. After all, how much attention did they pay to the howls of protest that greeted Rogernomics and Ruthanasia? What goes around, comes around.
And when the Covid-19 Pandemic passes and we all emerge into the sunlight, the emergency measures will need to be given permanent legislative form. To accommodate this reform many other things will have change – not least our taxation system. A UBI will require the One Percent to pay their fair share. Something they haven’t done since the early 1980s. Employers will also face changes. No longer in fear of “the sack”, their employees will demand a fairer distribution of the surplus they create: more for the workers, less for the shareholders. The UBI will thus unleash a torrent of innovation and creativity – helping as nothing else can the rehabilitation of New Zealand’s stricken economy.
The disaster of the Great Depression was transformed into a new and fairer society by the democratic socialism of the First Labour Government. The disaster of the Covid-19 Pandemic offers a similar transformative possibility to the Labour-NZ First-Green Government. Seize the time, Jacinda! You will never have a better opportunity to be strong, to be kind, and to make it okay for those who have waited so long and endured so much.
Let’s do this! Now!


thedailyblog--2020-03-25--Dr Liz Gordon: And it is with some relief…

And a sigh , all tasks about complete , the pantry stocked , that we sink into our little bubble .
I work from home anyway .
My sister from London ( who has been out here since Christmas Day ) , took one look at the chaos of Boris ’ s London and decided to weather the Covid-19 storm here .
Tucked up into our comfy house , both with paying work able to be completed from home , we are content with a month ’ s isolation , content indeed that it may be longer .
While other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ footing , urged to obey or else , given inadequate or conflicting stories all the time , we sink into our isolation having been given clear messages what our role is ( to save lives ) and what w have to do ( stay where we are , unless we urgently need to be elsewhere ) .
We have been entertained by ‘ Mr Opposition ’ , Simon Bridges , falling into line with the massed voices of support for the Government ’ s actions and for Jacinda ’ s approach .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a start of a new era , beyond beneficiary-bashing and point-scoring .
We are in awe of the clarity of Jacinda ’ s message , and of the officials and experts that speak with one voice , telling us what needs to happen .
We notice that today , as compared to yesterday , the yoof opposition , the male disobedience , have fallen away to be replaced with a good-humoured compliance .
We are pleased that the environment will be getting some respite here and in other countries .
We hope that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wellbeing and a better atmosphere , our health will improve .
We applaud those countries that have , with excellent management skills , begun to get the virus under control .
We are so angry with the economic right , Trump and Bolsonaro and that Texan git , name forgotten , who are very happy to sacrifice human lives in order to keep their corrupt economies going at full speed .
This moment of clarity might lead , eventually , to meaningful political change in some of those countries .
We are concerned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who are already sick and are moving towards death over the next month .
To die in isolation is a terrible thing , but to submit too early to a hospice bed is also an abandonment of hope .
Go well , my friends .
And best wishes to the rest of you , our TBD whānau .
Bomber says we are ramping up our site to amaze and entertain you over the next few weeks .
Keep in touch with your caustic comments , witty asides or even a guest blog .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a barrister , with interests in destroying neo-liberalism in all its forms and moving towards a socially just society .
She usually blogs on justice , social welfare and education topics .

And a sigh, all tasks about complete, the pantry stocked, that we sink into our little bubble.
I work from home anyway. My sister from London (who has been out here since Christmas Day), took one look at the chaos of Boris’s London and decided to weather the Covid-19 storm here.
Tucked up into our comfy house, both with paying work able to be completed from home, we are content with a month’s isolation, content indeed that it may be longer.
While other countries have been put on a war footing, urged to obey or else, given inadequate or conflicting stories all the time, we sink into our isolation having been given clear messages what our role is (to save lives) and what w have to do (stay where we are, unless we urgently need to be elsewhere).
We have been entertained by ‘Mr Opposition’, Simon Bridges, falling into line with the massed voices of support for the Government’s actions and for Jacinda’s approach. We congratulate him, and hope this is a start of a new era, beyond beneficiary-bashing and point-scoring.
We are in awe of the clarity of Jacinda’s message, and of the officials and experts that speak with one voice, telling us what needs to happen.
We notice that today, as compared to yesterday, the yoof opposition, the male disobedience, have fallen away to be replaced with a good-humoured compliance.
We are pleased that the environment will be getting some respite here and in other countries. We hope that, with a focus on basic personal wellbeing and a better atmosphere, our health will improve.
TDB Recommends NewzEngine.com
We applaud those countries that have, with excellent management skills, begun to get the virus under control. We are so angry with the economic right, Trump and Bolsonaro and that Texan git, name forgotten, who are very happy to sacrifice human lives in order to keep their corrupt economies going at full speed. This moment of clarity might lead, eventually, to meaningful political change in some of those countries.
We are concerned for, and worried about, those who are already sick and are moving towards death over the next month. To die in isolation is a terrible thing, but to submit too early to a hospice bed is also an abandonment of hope. Go well, my friends.
And best wishes to the rest of you, our TBD whānau. Bomber says we are ramping up our site to amaze and entertain you over the next few weeks. Keep in touch with your caustic comments, witty asides or even a guest blog.
Dr Liz Gordon is a researcher and a barrister, with interests in destroying neo-liberalism in all its forms and moving towards a socially just society. She usually blogs on justice, social welfare and education topics.


thedailyblog--2020-04-16--MUST READ: “Pandemic” – The Movie, Has Only Just Begun.

SO FAR , SO BLOODY FANTASTIC !
All around the world people are watching the press conferences of New Zealand ’ s prime minister and comparing them to whatever you call those performances featuring the President of the United States .
Imagine how decent , intelligent Americans must feel as they compare and contrast the style and the substance of these two very different political leaders .
The experience must surely be as harrowing for them as it is affirming for us .
The cynics will object , of course , that it ’ s easy to be “ nice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Which is true .
But , here ’ s the thing : New Zealanders ’ experience of the Covid-19 Pandemic has been so much less fraught than the Americans ’ because our system and our leadership rose to meet this extraordinary challenge and theirs did not .
Our politicians and civil servants , acting together , and supported by the overwhelming majority of the people , made the right choices at the right time and for the right reasons – which is why everything is going so well .
Better than many of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was a movie , however , we ’ d only have been watching for about 20 minutes .
The main characters of “ Pandemic – The Movie ” have been introduced and the best of them have risen splendidly to meet the script ’ s first big challenges .
We ’ re all rooting for them – willing them to succeed .
But , even as our identification with the heroes grows stronger , a little voice is reminding us that “ Pandemic ” still has 100 minutes left to run .
Because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Covid-19 virus – and that is still a long way off – our Prime Minister and her colleagues must meet the much larger and more daunting challenge of the virus ’ s economic consequences .
The Treasury ’ s most optimistic scenario predicts an unemployment rate of around 10 percent as the New Zealand economy struggles to lift itself off its knees .
Some economists are expecting as many as a third of this country ’ s business enterprises to fail .
It is difficult to fully appreciate what this means in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so many hopes and dreams ; the rising level of anxiety and despair ; the dangerous casting about for someone or something to blame .
If the first 20 minutes of “ Pandemic ” have been inspiring , the next 60 are likely to be bloody terrifying .
How so ?
Because wrestling with an economic crisis is a very different proposition from managing a public health crisis .
When it comes to the economy there is ( as yet ) no equivalent character to the steadfast and reassuring Director-General of Health , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think of their profession as a science , but it isn ’ t .
“ Political-Economy ” , as people used to call economics , is a much more honest descriptor .
It captures the central role which politics plays in how a society organises the means of production , distribution and exchange .
As Lenin rightly recognised , the whole complex business of how any particular society functions is reducible to just two one-word questions : Who ?
Whom ?
Or , as Leonard Cohen , rather less tersely , puts it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ economics is all about “ the homicidal bitchin ’ that goes down in every kitchen to determine who will serve and who will eat.
” People may be willing to let the scientific experts like Ashley Bloomfield , Michael Baker Siouxsie Wiles , and Shaun Hendy guide them through a medical emergency , but a willingness to be guided by the often conflicting advice of bankers , industrialists , trade unionists and academics , is much less likely .
Convincing New Zealanders to “ unite against the economic depression ” will be several @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them to unite against Covid-19 .
Unity against a potentially deadly coronavirus is much more easily achieved than uniting the rich and the poor in a common struggle to rebuild a collapsing economy .
That will be a much more daunting task .
Daunting – but not impossible .
Already emerging from the present crisis is a broad intellectual consensus that the answers to the questions Who ?
Whom ?
which the Powers-That-Be have for the past 35 years deemed acceptable will no longer suffice .
The Covid-19 Pandemic has brought home to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nature of the state .
Not even the Global Financial Crisis of 2008-09 was sufficient to topple the ideological hegemony of neoliberal economics , but this latest global catastrophe has brought it crashing down .
And this time , the neoliberal economists and financiers know it .
Their efforts at self-defence have , however , been spectacularly self-defeating .
The reason for this lack of success is simple .
At its core , neoliberalism is a sociopathic ideology , and sociopathology is , by definition , incapable of recognising its own core deficiencies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a complete lack of empathy .
The neoliberal “ solutions ” to the present crisis reflect these deficiencies .
Their protagonists simply can not comprehend why ordinary decent people recoil in horror from their campaign to “ save the economy ” by allowing the old , the sick and the weak to die in their tens-of-thousands .
People may not know much about economics , but they are still perfectly capable of distinguishing right from wrong .
The howling moral vacuum at the heart of Neoliberalism has finally been exposed by – of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Though finished strategically , the tactical response of Neoliberalism in extremis is certain to enliven the middle section of “ Pandemic ” .
But , if Jacinda Ardern , Grant Robertson , and whoever emerges as the humane economist equivalent of Dr Ashely Bloomfield , can maintain the tone and poise displayed in the battle against the virus , then the battle against the economic crisis may unfold in an equally satisfactory fashion .
Then again , the Government may not need an economic expert .
In his address to business leaders of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Grant Robertson , may have taken the burden of leading and explaining New Zealand ’ s economic recovery on to his own shoulders .
These words in particular suggest that , in Robertson , the hour has met the man : “ The importance of the role of the state has been underlined by this crisis .
I hold a strong personal belief in the power of the state to do good .
It is through a well-funded , highly functional public service , that we have had the ability to coordinate and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ both the public health response and the economic response to this crisis .
“ I believe it is of the utmost importance that the state continues to play an active part in the economic recovery , providing leadership and direction as we move forward through the challenging times ahead .
“ Finally , I know that what we have asked New Zealanders to do in this crisis is huge .
As we have all had to make sacrifices in doing our bit to stop the spread of the virus , so too will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in our economic recovery.
” It ’ s hard to imagine a better answer to the questions : Who ?
Whom ?
Especially since Robertson ’ s answer to both questions is the same : It would certainly guarantee “ Pandemic ” has a happy ending .

SO FAR, SO BLOODY FANTASTIC! All around the world people are watching the press conferences of New Zealand’s prime minister and comparing them to whatever you call those performances featuring the President of the United States. Imagine how decent, intelligent Americans must feel as they compare and contrast the style and the substance of these two very different political leaders. The experience must surely be as harrowing for them as it is affirming for us.
The cynics will object, of course, that it’s easy to be “nice” when everything is going well. Which is true. But, here’s the thing: New Zealanders’ experience of the Covid-19 Pandemic has been so much less fraught than the Americans’ because our system and our leadership rose to meet this extraordinary challenge and theirs did not. Our politicians and civil servants, acting together, and supported by the overwhelming majority of the people, made the right choices at the right time and for the right reasons – which is why everything is going so well. Better than many of us dared to hope.
If this was a movie, however, we’d only have been watching for about 20 minutes. The main characters of “Pandemic – The Movie” have been introduced and the best of them have risen splendidly to meet the script’s first big challenges. We’re all rooting for them – willing them to succeed. But, even as our identification with the heroes grows stronger, a little voice is reminding us that “Pandemic” still has 100 minutes left to run.
Because even if New Zealand succeeds in eliminating the Covid-19 virus – and that is still a long way off – our Prime Minister and her colleagues must meet the much larger and more daunting challenge of the virus’s economic consequences. The Treasury’s most optimistic scenario predicts an unemployment rate of around 10 percent as the New Zealand economy struggles to lift itself off its knees. Some economists are expecting as many as a third of this country’s business enterprises to fail. It is difficult to fully appreciate what this means in simple human terms: the collapse of so many hopes and dreams; the rising level of anxiety and despair; the dangerous casting about for someone or something to blame.
If the first 20 minutes of “Pandemic” have been inspiring, the next 60 are likely to be bloody terrifying.
How so? Because wrestling with an economic crisis is a very different proposition from managing a public health crisis. When it comes to the economy there is (as yet) no equivalent character to the steadfast and reassuring Director-General of Health, Dr Ashley Bloomfield. Economists like to think of their profession as a science, but it isn’t. “Political-Economy”, as people used to call economics, is a much more honest descriptor. It captures the central role which politics plays in how a society organises the means of production, distribution and exchange.
As Lenin rightly recognised, the whole complex business of how any particular society functions is reducible to just two one-word questions: Who? Whom? Or, as Leonard Cohen, rather less tersely, puts it in his song “Democracy”, economics is all about “the homicidal bitchin’ that goes down in every kitchen to determine who will serve and who will eat.”
People may be willing to let the scientific experts like Ashley Bloomfield, Michael Baker Siouxsie Wiles, and Shaun Hendy guide them through a medical emergency, but a willingness to be guided by the often conflicting advice of bankers, industrialists, trade unionists and academics, is much less likely. Convincing New Zealanders to “unite against the economic depression” will be several orders of magnitude more difficult that convincing them to unite against Covid-19. Unity against a potentially deadly coronavirus is much more easily achieved than uniting the rich and the poor in a common struggle to rebuild a collapsing economy. That will be a much more daunting task.
TDB Recommends NewzEngine.com
Daunting – but not impossible. Already emerging from the present crisis is a broad intellectual consensus that the answers to the questions Who? Whom? which the Powers-That-Be have for the past 35 years deemed acceptable will no longer suffice. The Covid-19 Pandemic has brought home to all people of good will the indispensable nature of the state. Not even the Global Financial Crisis of 2008-09 was sufficient to topple the ideological hegemony of neoliberal economics, but this latest global catastrophe has brought it crashing down.
And this time, the neoliberal economists and financiers know it. Their efforts at self-defence have, however, been spectacularly self-defeating. The reason for this lack of success is simple. At its core, neoliberalism is a sociopathic ideology, and sociopathology is, by definition, incapable of recognising its own core deficiencies: grandiosity, narcissism, amorality and a complete lack of empathy.
The neoliberal “solutions” to the present crisis reflect these deficiencies. Their protagonists simply cannot comprehend why ordinary decent people recoil in horror from their campaign to “save the economy” by allowing the old, the sick and the weak to die in their tens-of-thousands. People may not know much about economics, but they are still perfectly capable of distinguishing right from wrong. The howling moral vacuum at the heart of Neoliberalism has finally been exposed by – of all people – the neoliberals themselves.
Though finished strategically, the tactical response of Neoliberalism in extremis is certain to enliven the middle section of “Pandemic”. But, if Jacinda Ardern, Grant Robertson, and whoever emerges as the humane economist equivalent of Dr Ashely Bloomfield, can maintain the tone and poise displayed in the battle against the virus, then the battle against the economic crisis may unfold in an equally satisfactory fashion.
Then again, the Government may not need an economic expert. In his address to business leaders of 15 April, the Finance Minister, Grant Robertson, may have taken the burden of leading and explaining New Zealand’s economic recovery on to his own shoulders. These words in particular suggest that, in Robertson, the hour has met the man:
“The importance of the role of the state has been underlined by this crisis. I hold a strong personal belief in the power of the state to do good. It is through a well-funded, highly functional public service, that we have had the ability to coordinate and provide leadership for New Zealanders, guiding both the public health response and the economic response to this crisis.
“I believe it is of the utmost importance that the state continues to play an active part in the economic recovery, providing leadership and direction as we move forward through the challenging times ahead.
“Finally, I know that what we have asked New Zealanders to do in this crisis is huge. As we have all had to make sacrifices in doing our bit to stop the spread of the virus, so too will we all have a part to play in our economic recovery.”
It’s hard to imagine a better answer to the questions: Who? Whom? Especially since Robertson’s answer to both questions is the same:
Us.
It would certainly guarantee “Pandemic” has a happy ending.


thedailyblog--2020-04-16--NZ’s medicinal cannabis scheme – here’s what it means for you

In the midst of this coronavirus lockdown , it was easy to miss that New Zealand ’ s new medicinal cannabis scheme has gone live .
Regulations took effect on 1 April so now any doctor can prescribe cannabis products to any patient .
Local production is also allowed – but no new cannabis products are available yet .
This has left many doctors and patients wondering what the scheme really means for them .
NORML has long advocated to make the medicinal use of cannabis legal .
We first raised the issue of medicinal use in the 1970s !
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rebecca Reider , who also served as the consumer representative on the Government ’ s Medicinal Cannabis Advisory Group .
“ It ’ s so close and so far , ” Rebecca told me .
“ The progress is exciting .
But many patients are worried that legal cannabis products will continue to be too expensive , forcing many of us to keep relying on illegal sources.
” “ Every patient I ’ ve been in touch with is pulling strongly for a ‘ yes ’ vote in the referendum to make safe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advocacy group Medical Cannabis Awareness New Zealand Inc has also called the regulations “ bittersweet ” , noting excellent gains around prescribers and access pathways , but leaving the patients with an uphill battle for access .
So what has changed ?
The New Zealand Government legalised medicinal cannabis in December 2018 , and passed regulations to enable the scheme in December 2019 .
These regulations , which took effect on 1 April , are the third main plank of the scheme .
The other planks have already taken effect : there is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ care to let them legally obtain , possess and use illicit cannabis , CBD Products were de-scheduled so they are no longer controlled drugs and any GP can prescribe them .
The new Medicinal Cannabis Regulations define several important aspects of the scheme : • A new Medicinal Cannabis Agency to oversee the scheme , including establishing minimum quality standards for products , licensing local production , and assessing products for distribution ; • Changing the requirements for prescribers so that they no longer require Ministerial consent to prescribe medicinal cannabis products .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ prescribe cannabis products to any patient , for any reason ; • Allowing the import and export of medicinal cannabis products ; • Allowing hemp and illicit cannabis genetics to be transferred into the medicinal scheme .
The minimum quality standards and requirement for batch testing and labeling will be reassuring for many patients , and will make doctors more likely to have the confidence to prescribe the products .
Local production is expected to lower costs and ensure a consistency of supply .
In addition , vaporisers intended for using medicinal cannabis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This has been done because doctors are now allowed to prescribe herbal forms of cannabis that are intended to be vaped ( not smoked ) .
The Misuse of Drugs Prohibition of Utensils ) Notice 2020 sets out that a vaporiser can be imported and sold if it has been approved as a medical device by an overseas regulator ( this must be done overseas as there is no capacity to assess them in New Zealand ) .
This is intended to ensure the vaporiser will be a safe method for administering @ @ @ @ @ @ @ devices can be prescribed by doctors , but are likely to be significantly more expensive than consumer models .
The Ministry of Health warns that other vaporiser devices already on sale in New Zealand “ continue to be prohibited from New Zealand and may be confiscated by Customs.
” Patients who are stuck at home or live in remote areas can still access cannabis products , because home delivery by online pharmacies is allowed .
However , patients won ’ t be able to grow their own yet .
For this to happen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the cannabis referendum to be held at the next general election .
When will all this happen ?
Some changes took immediate effect , such as the prescriber requirements and allowing vaporisers .
But licensing local production and assessing new products for distribution are likely to take at least several months .
This is to be expected , as the Ministry of Health rather busy – and doing a great job – leading New Zealand ’ s Covid-19 coronavirus response .
If it all goes well , we could be seeing locally-grown cannabis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year .
What should patients do ?
Firstly , familiarise yourself with the new rules and what you can do .
The Ministry of Health has a page for consumers .
Because medicinal cannabis products will technically count as “ unapproved ” , they can not be marketed or advertised .
Then talk to your doctor .
They will have an understanding of the new rules and can give you further guidance .
If your doctor doesn ’ t seem up to date , point them to the Ministry of Health ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , go see a specialist cannabis doctor .
Several are already operating cannabis clinics and we expect more to open this year .
Finally , help spread the word about voting Yes in the cannabis referendum .
This is the only way patients will be able to grow their own .
Access will get easier and cheaper for everyone .
Do you want to grow or make medicinal cannabis products ?
If you want to work in the industry you need to hold a medicinal cannabis licence or work for a person or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ licence will specify the types of activities that a licence holder may carry out , such as commercial cultivation of cannabis or manufacture and supply of medicinal cannabis products .
For more information see the Ministry of Health ’ s page for industry and this page on how to apply for a licence .
There are several exciting aspects of the scheme that will lower costs of entry into the industry , and make local production more viable .
These include : • A new ability to transition illicit genetics , and hemp @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ; • A new “ pre-vetting ” process that allows tentative approval on paper before going further ( this could also be used to raise finance or bring partners on board ) ; • Lower security requirements for cannabis that is below 1 % THC ; • Applicants with drug convictions aren ’ t ruled out ; they can be licensed with approval from the Minister .
Read the regulations and think about how you will operate while also being a viable business .
The cultivation space is likely to be crowded and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what they will do .
You ’ ll need access to seed , and a buyer for the end crop .
The biggest missing piece of the puzzle is manufacturers who can take plant material and turn it into products that meet the quality standard .
Smart operators will consider these issues before applying .
For more information , see : • Medsafe guidance on the Use of Unapproved Medicines and Unapproved Use of Medicines .
Chris Fowlie is the CEO of Zeacann Limited , a medicinal cannabis producer ; co-founder of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the National Organisation for the Reform of Marijuana Laws NZ Inc ; co-founder of The Hempstore Aotearoa ; resident expert for Marijuana Media on 95bFM ; cannabis blogger for The Daily Blog , and court-recognised independent expert witness for cannabis .
The opinions expressed here are his own .

In the midst of this coronavirus lockdown, it was easy to miss that New Zealand’s new medicinal cannabis scheme has gone live. Regulations took effect on 1 April so now any doctor can prescribe cannabis products to any patient.
Local production is also allowed – but no new cannabis products are available yet. This has left many doctors and patients wondering what the scheme really means for them.
NORML has long advocated to make the medicinal use of cannabis legal. We first raised the issue of medicinal use in the 1970s! So I talked to our patient representative Rebecca Reider, who also served as the consumer representative on the Government’s Medicinal Cannabis Advisory Group.
“It’s so close and so far,” Rebecca told me. “The progress is exciting. But many patients are worried that legal cannabis products will continue to be too expensive, forcing many of us to keep relying on illegal sources.”
“Every patient I’ve been in touch with is pulling strongly for a ‘yes’ vote in the referendum to make safe, legal cannabis more accessible.”
Patient advocacy group Medical Cannabis Awareness New Zealand Inc has also called the regulations “bittersweet”, noting excellent gains around prescribers and access pathways, but leaving the patients with an uphill battle for access.
So what has changed?
The New Zealand Government legalised medicinal cannabis in December 2018, and passed regulations to enable the scheme in December 2019. These regulations, which took effect on 1 April, are the third main plank of the scheme.
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The other planks have already taken effect: there is a statutory defence for patients undergoing palliative care to let them legally obtain, possess and use illicit cannabis, CBD Products were de-scheduled so they are no longer controlled drugs and any GP can prescribe them.
The new Medicinal Cannabis Regulations define several important aspects of the scheme:
A new Medicinal Cannabis Agency to oversee the scheme, including establishing minimum quality standards for products, licensing local production, and assessing products for distribution;
Changing the requirements for prescribers so that they no longer require Ministerial consent to prescribe medicinal cannabis products. In short this means any doctor can prescribe cannabis products to any patient, for any reason;
Allowing the import and export of medicinal cannabis products;
Allowing hemp and illicit cannabis genetics to be transferred into the medicinal scheme.
The minimum quality standards and requirement for batch testing and labeling will be reassuring for many patients, and will make doctors more likely to have the confidence to prescribe the products.
Local production is expected to lower costs and ensure a consistency of supply.
In addition, vaporisers intended for using medicinal cannabis can now be legal in New Zealand. This has been done because doctors are now allowed to prescribe herbal forms of cannabis that are intended to be vaped (not smoked).
The Misuse of Drugs Prohibition of Utensils) Notice 2020 sets out that a vaporiser can be imported and sold if it has been approved as a medical device by an overseas regulator (this must be done overseas as there is no capacity to assess them in New Zealand).
This is intended to ensure the vaporiser will be a safe method for administering medicinal cannabis. Vaporisers registered as medical devices can be prescribed by doctors, but are likely to be significantly more expensive than consumer models.
The Ministry of Health warns that other vaporiser devices already on sale in New Zealand “continue to be prohibited from New Zealand and may be confiscated by Customs.”
Patients who are stuck at home or live in remote areas can still access cannabis products, because home delivery by online pharmacies is allowed.
However, patients won’t be able to grow their own yet. For this to happen, New Zealand must vote Yes in the cannabis referendum to be held at the next general election.
When will all this happen?
Some changes took immediate effect, such as the prescriber requirements and allowing vaporisers.
But licensing local production and assessing new products for distribution are likely to take at least several months.
This is to be expected, as the Ministry of Health rather busy – and doing a great job – leading New Zealand’s Covid-19 coronavirus response.
If it all goes well, we could be seeing locally-grown cannabis plants flowering by the end of this year.
What should patients do?
Firstly, familiarise yourself with the new rules and what you can do. The Ministry of Health has a page for consumers. Because medicinal cannabis products will technically count as “unapproved”, they cannot be marketed or advertised.
Then talk to your doctor. They will have an understanding of the new rules and can give you further guidance. If your doctor doesn’t seem up to date, point them to the Ministry of Health’s page for prescribers.
If that fails, go see a specialist cannabis doctor. Several are already operating cannabis clinics and we expect more to open this year.
Finally, help spread the word about voting Yes in the cannabis referendum. This is the only way patients will be able to grow their own. Access will get easier and cheaper for everyone.
Do you want to grow or make medicinal cannabis products?
If you want to work in the industry you need to hold a medicinal cannabis licence or work for a person or company that holds a licence. The licence will specify the types of activities that a licence holder may carry out, such as commercial cultivation of cannabis or manufacture and supply of medicinal cannabis products. For more information see the Ministry of Health’s page for industry and this page on how to apply for a licence.
There are several exciting aspects of the scheme that will lower costs of entry into the industry, and make local production more viable. These include:
A new “Nursery” licence for seed merchants;
A new ability to transition illicit genetics, and hemp cultivars, into the medicinal cannabis scheme;
Lower fees than first proposed;
Multi-site and multi-activity licences;
A new “pre-vetting” process that allows tentative approval on paper before going further (this could also be used to raise finance or bring partners on board);
Lower security requirements for cannabis that is below 1% THC;
Applicants with drug convictions aren’t ruled out; they can be licensed with approval from the Minister.
Read the regulations and think about how you will operate while also being a viable business. The cultivation space is likely to be crowded and many people don’t seem sure what they will do. You’ll need access to seed, and a buyer for the end crop. The biggest missing piece of the puzzle is manufacturers who can take plant material and turn it into products that meet the quality standard. Smart operators will consider these issues before applying.
For more information, see:
***
Chris Fowlie is the CEO of Zeacann Limited, a medicinal cannabis producer; co-founder of the New Zealand Medical Cannabis Council; president of the National Organisation for the Reform of Marijuana Laws NZ Inc; co-founder of The Hempstore Aotearoa; resident expert for Marijuana Media on 95bFM; cannabis blogger for The Daily Blog, and court-recognised independent expert witness for cannabis. The opinions expressed here are his own.


thedailyblog--2020-04-16--US airline bailout protects jobs better than NZ government does for Air NZ. Why?

The bailout is a mixture of direct grants and discounted loans .
Sara Nelson , president of the Association of @ @ @ @ @ a statement to CNBC : “ This is an unprecedented accomplishment — a truly workers-first @ @ @ @ @ to their jobs and provides stability and hope to millions of aviation workers and sets @ @ @ @ @ work to extend to every worker.
” When the NZ government did its deal with @ @ @ @ @ extortionate 8 % interest and seemed to place no requirements on the company to keep @ @ @ @ @ this possible when the company is already 51 % owned by the government ?

The bailout is a mixture of direct grants and discounted loans.
Sara Nelson, president of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, said in a statement to CNBC: “This is an unprecedented accomplishment — a truly workers-first stimulus that keeps people connected to their jobs and provides stability and hope to millions of aviation workers and sets a template we must now work to extend to every worker.”