Helen Clark valedictory speech
April 8th, 2009 at 2:27 pm by David FarrarClark’s valedictory speech is at aroudn 5 pm today, and viewable on Parliament TV, and through the Parliament website.
I have watched (either in person or via TV) every former PM’s valedictory speech from Muldoon onwards – except for Geoffrey Palmer. All very different styles. Muldoon was sad yet powerful. Lange was hilarious. Bolger was excellent talking of prides and regrets and had a farewell from the Maori MPs at the end of it.
Moore was funny but with some bitterness. Shipley was dignified and optimistic.
For those who can’t watch it, I’ll probably live blog any noticeable parts.
THE SPEECH:
Starting now. I note Jonathan Hunt is in the House, next to the Speaker’s Chair. Clark says she has mixed emotions. Enrolled at Auckland Uni in 1968. Talking of big issues in 1968 such as Vietnam War, nuclear testing, South Africa.
Says Kirk’s independent foreign policy inspired her. Referred to Radio Hauraki breaking state radio monopoly by broadcasting from a boat in Hauraki Gulf.
Never imagined being PM when young, as senior politicians were all elderly men. Now paying tribute to Hunt and Anderton for getting her involved, plus Kirk again. She was foot solider in 1972.
Grew up on a farm in Waikato. Wider family had many political allegiances. Parents initially surprised by her political direction, but always personally supportive and now fully politically supportive. Mum too ill to be hear but 87 year old Dad is in gallery. Pays tribute to them both. Lots of clapping.
Stood in 1975 in Piako against Gentleman Jack Luxton and he was a Gentleman. Advice to young people in politics is to start off by running in a seat they probably won’t win as you learn a lot. Success is seldom instant, and quick wins can fade quickly.
Referred to how Muldoon said in his valedictory was how many more women were now in Parliament and how he found them somewhat frightening. Clark says it was mutual – especially if you tried to interject him 
Attracted to politics by desire to make a difference. Has a sense of gratitude for opportunities NZ has given her. NZ was an escape for many from the class bound order of the UK. Detests social distinction and snobbery. Hence dislikes titular honours.
Focused in first six years on Mt Albert. Grateful to them. Chaired Foreign Affairs Select Committee and highlight was anti-nuclear law. Now talking about various Ministerial things she did. Helped bring in seven day trading (yay).
Plague on both your houses (National and Labour) in 1992 and 1993 saw MMP introduced. Lots of defections to minor parties in mid 1990s. Labour lost support to NZ First and Alliance and in mid 90s a poll had Labour on 14% and Clark on 2% as Preferred PM. In hindsight surprised concerned delegations to her door did not occur more often.
1999 saw Labour/Alliance Government with Green support. Believes they have made life better for many New Zealanders.
In last term in particular big focus was sustainability and believes it is vital for our international credibility. Jewel in crown was transfer of Molesworth Station to DOC to preserve for all NZers.
Talking about heritage projects like Te Ara.
NZers now very familiar with settlement of historical grievances and important they continue to be settled. Also apology to Samoa was important as was apology to Vietnam Veterans for what they endured in lack of recognition and support.
Proud that Maori are now significant economic stakeholders in NZ. Has enjoyed engagement with all the ethnic communities. Says it is inevitable that we will become a republic – not if, but when.
Pleased we stayed out of Iraq War but also that have rebuilt relationship with US. Big commitment to peace keeping.
Regards selection as UNDP Administrator as reflection on not just her, but NZ’s record internationally.
No regrets but it is time to go and let others lead. 2008 result was disappointing but in a democracy must respect the people’s will.
Never a solo act in politics. So many people have supported her. Her parents gave best possible start. Her sisters and their families always supportive of Peter and her. Peter has been a staunch supporter of her career, no matter how unpleasant it got. Lots of clapping from all sides.
Mt Albert backed her for 10 elections. Thanks to all those, esp Mt Albert electorate committee. Also electorate office staff – esp Joan Caulfield.
Thanks to all in Labour at all levels. Special thanks to Cullen. Friendships will be life long. Expects many texts and even the occassional tweet. Very well timed joke.
Thanks Jim A. Then Jeanette from Greens. Also honourable relationships with Dunne and Peters based on common interests. Also acknowledge Turia and thank her.
Relationships with National and ACT less significant. But acknowldge Key and Hide for their courtesy, especially recently. And previous MPs such as Paul East. Also talks to Bolger, Palmer and Moore.
Thanks DPMC CEOs and Cabinet Secretaries by name. Also thanks MCH and Ministerial Services. Enjoyed work with SIS and GCSB. Trusts them and their staff. They work in the interests of NZ.
Also thanks MFAT for support on so many issues and summits and visits. Privilege to support NZ Defence Force and seeing their work overseas.
Thanking PM’s Office – Heather Simpson, Alec McLean and others. Also Police/DPS for keeping her alive! They are unsung heroes. Also kudos to VIP Drivers (I agree they rock). Privileged to continue using them, so not an end.
27 years since her maiden speech at 32. Said greatish wish was to have contributed ot making NZ a better place for peopel to live in. She thinks she has played her part – has been a privilege and an honour. Wishes Goff and Labour best for the next election and NZ the best for challenging times ahead.
All over. Clapping and hugs. Key gave a cheek kiss. Now given a Maori cloak by Nanaia.
Speech was very good. Covered the whole life, not just the achievements as PM, which makes it more interesting. No masively stand out moments, but nothing you can fault either. No bitterness or sniping, and no defensiveness.
Related posts:
- Further thoughts on Clark valedictory
- No valedictory for Hide
- Lange’s Valedictory Speech
- Don Brash valedictory speech
April 8th, 2009 at 2:37 pm
If someone could put a recording of it on YouTube that would be awesome.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 2:39 pm
In before the spitting and cursing of Helen Clark!
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 2:40 pm
I’ll paraphrase in advance-
“Up yours suckers, you’ve only stopped me temporarily. I’m off to join my cronies at the UN, and we’re going to impose socialist Nirvana on your little scumbag country whether you want it or not.”
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 2:46 pm
Not a moment too soon Ryan.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 2:54 pm
Ooh can’t wait.
Vote:I just can’t wait for the sickening fawning and ovations from people who not many months ago were calling her corrupt, a fraud etc.
Whatever happened to the talk about making people accountable, stamp out corruption etc?
Nope, do nothing about that, forget you ever said those things and make it nice and comfy for your cronies (they are your cronies aren’t they) now that its your turn in the trough.
April 8th, 2009 at 2:56 pm
Boo! Helen Clark. Hiss!
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 2:58 pm
Well said Colinm
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 3:03 pm
Every clap of applause from Johnny Clueless and The Spineless Amoebas is another betrayal of Don Brash.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 3:07 pm
Thanks for the warning David, will put the whisky and water in the fridge, God knows one will have to have good anaesthetic at hand while watching this dribble.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 3:08 pm
Is it going to be repeated later, or put somewhere else for those that can’t watch it live?
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 3:08 pm
Oh getthefuckover the whining redsterbator. Its become passe.
Don Brash ahd his chance, and he wasn’t up to it. Who the fuck wanted someone who counted out the frozen peas before dinner, as PM?
Sarah Palin had her chance, but the seppos were smarter than the pig dog in lipstick, and saw through her act.
And yes, John “I believe in the Welfare State” Key is LabourLite, but that’s what the electorate wanted.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 3:18 pm
“Who the fuck wanted someone who counted out the frozen peas before dinner, as PM?”
Dunno really. Maybe the same people who didn’t want to see Helen Klark counting out misappropriated taxpayer dollars to spend on her re-election campaign.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 3:21 pm
“that’s what the electorate wanted.”
That’s what some of the electorate wanted. This is still a democracy, in spite of the efforts of half educated jack booted thugs and numbskulls like you.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 3:27 pm
Here are the Bullshit Bingo words/phrases for Helen’s speech;
Honourable, integrity, prudent, responsible, caring, Labour-led, honest, hard working, talented, in safe hands, rejuvenated and last but not least ‘move on’.
First person to tick all of them off while she is singing her own praise is required under standing order “burt-01” to immediately stand and should out “Bullshit”.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 3:28 pm
should out = shout out
Grumble grumble edit….
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 3:30 pm
why waste parliament’s valuable time on what is bound to be a load of bilious shit? i’ve got a ticket to LA here for tomorrow – she can FRO now.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 3:31 pm
DPF said: For those who can’t watch it
Vote:Oh, poor wee sensitive mouseys, avert your eyes for God’s sake!
April 8th, 2009 at 3:31 pm
I sincerely hope that as she starts her speech, Key, English and other senior National MPs turn her back on her and leave the chamber. That’s what Clark, Cullen and others did to Brash. If Labour is so keen on equality they cannot complain of this equal action.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 3:34 pm
“Oh, poor wee sensitive mouseys, avert your eyes for God’s sake!”
I dunno, seems quite rational to me.
Who the hell wants to bring spasms of nausea and vomiting upon themselves?
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 3:34 pm
Gooner
I hope they don’t do that. It was sick when the self serving muppets did it and it would be sick if National did it.
They don’t need to clap or agree with her but it is their duty to listen. Just as it was Clark’s and Cullen’s duty to listen to Brash. Two wrongs don’t make a right.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 3:36 pm
Gooner
Besides, who’s gonna play BS-Bingo if only lovers of self serving corrupt govt are in the house?
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 3:37 pm
Don Brash went out in style and on his own terms. HC is still bitter and vindictive and you will see that in her speech. It won’t be a graceful exit. No hint of contrition let alone any hint of realisation that you can’t fool all of the people all of the time. But more’s the point there will almost be a two fingered salute that she is off to ‘better’ things having purchased the job with (how) many millions of taxpayers money.
Yes Redbaiter, I suspect she will be applauded by many of her colleague MPs … especially the back of her on the way out.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 3:41 pm
As she leaves, I hope someone yells out-
“On ya bike loser”
Mr. Garret, you reading this??
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 3:42 pm
Perhaps Don was looking for the deadly nightshade. Who could blame him.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 3:50 pm
You think she’ll acknowledge all the constructive advice from the KB crew, it’d be a pity if she didn’t hey…
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 3:50 pm
Batman will say bon voyage with a snigger.
Vote:Look to the sky Helen, as justice is coming gal.
April 8th, 2009 at 3:50 pm
Lindsay
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 3:52 pm
What’s the bet Helen Clark never once read Kiwiblog. Never. Once.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 3:52 pm
I await her apology.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 3:56 pm
dad4justice (5162) Vote: 0 1 Says:
April 8th, 2009 at 3:50 pm
Batman will say bon voyage with a snigger.
Look to the sky Helen, as justice is coming gal.
So batman’s gunna get her, he’s the new god, the new eye in the sky? WOW! Just as we celebrate the day the last god was put to death. Such serendipity.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 3:58 pm
“What’s the bet Helen Clark never once read Kiwiblog. Never. Once.”
Helen Klark has never read a lot of things she should have.
Its that ignorance that makes her the smug arrogant smirking totalitarian socialist that she is.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 4:02 pm
What’s your excuse?
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 4:09 pm
burt wrote: They don’t need to clap or agree with her but it is their duty to listen.
It’s the Government’s duty to see that Clark is brought to justice. It’s the government’s duty to ensure that New Zealand society is never again the victim of those who share her ideology.
Listening to the demented ravings of Marxist-Lenesbianism* is not amongst any member of the government’s duties.
(*) Not a spelling mistake.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 4:11 pm
Paul Williams (298) Vote: 0 2 Says:
April 8th, 2009 at 4:02 pm
Its that ignorance that makes her the smug arrogant smirking totalitarian socialist that she is.
What’s your excuse?
He’s a discontented, humble, glowering, authoritarian fascist.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 4:12 pm
What’s the bet Geenfly has never once worked a day in his life. Never. Once.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 4:13 pm
So oob, just what is your problem with democracy?
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 4:15 pm
“So oob, just what is your problem with democracy?”
You mean other than we never had it during he Klark years?
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 4:16 pm
“What’s the bet Helen Clark never once read Kiwiblog. Never. Once.”
“Plausible deniability”.
Dollars to donuts she has had her “people” read it for her.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 4:17 pm
oob
You would be hard pressed to find somebody who agrees with you more than me.
However – The whole point of process and procedure is that it should be followed. The fact Labour didn’t bother to do that (or follow the laws they wrote for others) is made all the more obvious by National doing exactly that.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 4:19 pm
big bruv – how can we settle this, in all honesty. If I list the jobs I’ve done (musterer, Project Manager, nurseryman, journalist, etc. etc. etc.) you’ll claim I’m lying. But I don’t lie. Presently I am working at 4 jobs. One is as a partner in a small business, one is as a contractor, one is as an employee for a well known company, one is with a state owned enterprise. But this will not convince you. Any suggestions?
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 4:20 pm
I can bet Helen’s “people” read it for her and reported exactly what she insisted on hearing; They love you Helen, they all want you as their PM.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 4:21 pm
“But I don’t lie.”
Apart from when it comes to “Green issues”
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 4:21 pm
greenfly
Are you in Wellington? You must have access to Nandor’s favourite pipe and I’m sure the Green party could supply some packing for it. I’ll have a few hits on it then I’ll be ready to believe anything you say.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 4:22 pm
greenfly (925) Vote: 0 0 Says:
April 8th, 2009 at 4:19 pm
big bruv – how can we settle this, in all honesty. If I list the jobs I’ve done (musterer, Project Manager, nurseryman, journalist, etc. etc. etc.) you’ll claim I’m lying. But I don’t lie. Presently I am working at 4 jobs. One is as a partner in a small business, one is as a contractor, one is as an employee for a well known company, one is with a state owned enterprise. But this will not convince you. Any suggestions?
I suggest you show solidarity with the workers and relenquish 3 of the jobs so others may eat and support their families.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 4:22 pm
MyNameIsJack wrote: So oob, just what is your problem with democracy?
That parasitic scum that will not ever contribute to our society get a say in how it’s governed and that they tend to vote for politicians like Hulun Clark.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 4:24 pm
“Apart from when it comes to “Green issues””
With the resume he’s just outlined BB, he has to be a cronyist.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 4:29 pm
With respect, I’m sure there was someone in the PM’s office that monitored blogs, this one included but I doubt very much it extended to reading the comments. Any political operator follows discussion of policy matters including through all media, but you need to face up to the fact that very few people take seriously the ravings of anonymous malcontents – particularly when they’re so relentlessly predictable.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 4:29 pm
Shock horror – Helen will stand up and confess to a long standing affair with Cullen. Judith & H2 will be outraged and Peter Davis will loose his bet about which way Helen really likes it and be required to shave of 1 eyebrow.
Life in the bear pit is glorious on a good day.
Vote:OK – That’s probably 10 demerits – I’ll take the hit.
April 8th, 2009 at 4:29 pm
Welcome to Oob Zealand! Where oob decides who’s “contributing” and who isn’t.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 4:32 pm
burt wrote: However – The whole point of process and procedure is that it should be followed. The fact Labour didn’t bother to do that (or follow the laws they wrote for others) is made all the more obvious by National doing exactly that.
20 years ago I might have agreed with you. Back then the Left-wing Parties, while deluded, were still reasonable and had New Zealand’s interests at heart.
Not now.
Labour and the Greens represent an existential threat to our society. A threat that requires more of a response than the manners and etiquette of process and procedure.
Vote from the rooftops.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 4:33 pm
I am just waiting for the bit when she says “goodbye”.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 4:36 pm
As long as it is goodbye and not “I’ll be back”.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 4:38 pm
Ratbiter wrote: Welcome to Oob Zealand! Where oob decides who’s “contributing” and who isn’t.
Dear Mr Biter,
Thank you for your application for the role of Campaign Manager. Having reviewed your credentials, I’m sorry to inform you that you have not been shortlisted for this position.
Yours sincerely,
Vote:Presidente (in internal exile) oob.
April 8th, 2009 at 4:39 pm
oob
I share your pain. But two wrongs don’t make a right. Just like “others did it too” is no justification for breaking the law.
We all stand and fall on our own actions, we should never judge others integrity relative to people we have no respect for.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 4:47 pm
Will there be a haka party or a female stripper?
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 5:08 pm
Will David Garrett diss her twice in a week….
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 5:14 pm
Here are the Bullshit Bingo words/phrases for Helen’s speech
If the speech so far is any indication you’re not even going to get a row.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 5:22 pm
burt – is Nandor’s pipe in Wellington? As he’s in Ngaruawahia (sp?) he must be missing it!
Bruv – ffs grow up.
MyNameIsJack – I suggest you show solidarity with the workers and relenquish 3 of the jobs so others may eat and support their families. Fair enough! I’ll pare back as quickly as I can (it’ll give me more time for commenting here
Oob – Vote from the rooftops While you’re up there …
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 5:30 pm
Despite all the rap, id like to see for myself. Being expat, cant get it, so a youtube link would be awesome.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 5:30 pm
Greenfly wrote: Oob – Vote from the rooftops While you’re up there …
Yes Greenfly. That is in fact, the point.
“Oooh look, there’s young Greenfly, on her way to the polling booth..”
http://www.cotse.net/users/kbarrett/rooftops.jpg
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 5:40 pm
5.40pm, sorry Burt…
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 5:42 pm
oob – you’re intimating that you would kill a girl. Nice.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 5:44 pm
Nice speech. There goes my leader…
I didn’t notice if that angry drunk little act MP (what’s his name, again?) stood up to applaud or not. It seems strangely irrelevant somehow!
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 5:49 pm
oob – a young girl. Using a high-powered rifle. Oob.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 5:57 pm
Clark speech audio:
Vote:http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/HL0904/S00094.htm
April 8th, 2009 at 6:07 pm
A David Lange one liner seems singularly appropriate here:
Helen, “you forgot your broomstick”…
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 6:15 pm
Listened on radio in the car on the way home
Fairly high on self congratulation, managed to avoid most of her usual tendency to spitefullness but lapsed occasionally – dig at titular awards, noticed most MPs had a title, honourable or right honourable, or doctor or sir but noticeable JK and RH did not merit their titles and national and act received miniscule mentions (fits her ideology)
overall a surprisingly boring speech.
I’m still keen on the being a good winner approach – dropping down to clark’s and cullen’s bile laden and bitchy utterings only brings national down – it might feel good but it does not show leadership or set a good standard of behaviour – I’m with JK on this – so guys – they’re gone – let’s move on.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 6:20 pm
Agreed slijmbal – although Clark says she has no regrets, her treatment of Brash was a very bad lapse in judgment – one which I am glad was not reciprocated today. Two wrongs do not make a right.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 6:21 pm
>Pleased we stayed out of Iraq War
Has she forgotten sending NZ troops to Iraq?
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 6:28 pm
Parliament’s adulation of this (IMHO) crook and shyster is not so much a display of courtesy and manners as it is a sign that there is a serious disconnect between politicians, their cronyist mainstream media, and middle New Zealand.
This sad deranged woman, who has made NZ suffer because of (IMHO) her adolescent estrangement from her father, has never done anything but take and destroy.
Fooling some of the people for some of the time is easy. Charlatans never have any trouble with that outcome. Politicians need to awaken to the fact that popularity polls are one thing, and the growing divide between them and a large section of NZ voters is another.
Some people claiming to be representatives of their electorate need to think again before they proceed on the basis that NZers think politics is all just a sporting affair amongst gentlemen and ladies.
The call is for change. When it came in France in 1944, the collaborators suddenly understood the anger of the people. Many of the politicians swept up in the fake glory of Klark’s departure perhaps need to think about that.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 6:32 pm
She said she would return…. The bent pennies always come back.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 6:42 pm
reddy,
“it is a sign that there is a serious disconnect between politicians, their cronyist mainstream media, and middle New Zealand.”
Alternatively, you might be a crank, whose view of the world is so far to the margins that it leaves you completely irrelevant. Fortunately, forums such as this exist to prevent you going completely postal. Give DPF a knighthood for services to the community!
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 6:47 pm
Oh good god, a new high in hyperbole. So you’re a collaborator if you support Labour? Get a grip!
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 6:53 pm
I never liked Helen Clark. I don’t think she was a great Prime Minister and I believe she missed the opportunities to make New Zealand a better country. But its absurd to think like some of you, that she has damaged New Zealand or that she is disliked in this country. Sure she was polarising, she could be patronising as well. But she should at least deserve some respect even from her foes.
And Redbaiter. You I can safely say do not represent middle New Zealand. After all, anyone that disagrees you regardless of who they vote for and what they believe are classed as socialist and scum. You often paint yourselves as knowing what New Zealand wants. But then you class all newspapers in this country to be from communist wackos. Indeed what is your opinion of Guyon Espiner. Oh and you’re very quick to praise Fox News. Which in itself speaks volumes about you. You do talk a lot but most of it is just blatant bullshit.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 6:57 pm
“Oh good god, a new high in hyperbole. So you’re a collaborator if you support Labour? Get a grip!”
Always the problem with the left. Their comprehension skills never seem to have developed since their childhood.
I am trying to make the point that sooner or later, there needs to be some differentiation made between this government and the last one. What with the fawning over Klark after the way she treated Brash, the appointment of Kullen, the sucking up to the Greens, National risk being seen as just Labour, a gang of crooks and cronyists, in a new suit.
It is getting very close to the stage where it would be easy for the public to at some time in the future, after some particularly significant event, suddenly perceive this to be the case, and to turn on Key and his spineless mates.
National need to stop listening to the same detached from reality over paid under performing public relations consultants who attempted to massage Klark’s public image, and turn their ears more to the people who voted for them.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 7:16 pm
“Alternatively, you might be a crank, whose view of the world is so far to the margins that it leaves you completely irrelevant.”
You’re always the one with all the negative karma.
I am merely one small voice in a collection of voices from the long suppressed middle class who have been denied a say by a triumvirate of a left liberal mainstream media, a socially intimidating campaign by leftists over the last few years who have used political correctness as a means to shut down legitimate debate, and a weak kneed political party (National) too inarticulate and ideologically bankrupt to counter the former two items.
You and your ilk are obviously nervous at the fact that we have a voice. You’re going to get a lot more nervous because our voice is going to get a lot louder, and the days when the left control the political debate are going to grow shorter and fewer in number, and there’s many people out there just waiting for you to push your barrow just that little bit too far.
You’d do well to remember that given the social volatility abroad today. Things can change very quickly.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 7:32 pm
Actually agree with Redbaiters last post.
Vote:I posted elsewhere;
When you mix yellow and blue you get green and that’s now become a a ‘Whiter shade of pale” Almost mellon in fact.
April 8th, 2009 at 7:57 pm
Someone else must have written the speech then.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 7:57 pm
gingercrush
” But she should at least deserve some respect even from her foes.”
Why?..
For trampling on my rights?
For stealing more than she needed from me for nine years?
For introducing massive social engineering policies not one of which she campaigned on?
For corrupting the police force?
For stealing money from me then validating that theft when she was caught out?
For taking away my rights to discipline my kids how I see fit?
For making our country more vulnerable by removing the air wing of the armed forces?
For forcing me to pay for other people’s kids?
For lying to the public time and time again?
For refusing to fund herceptain?
So please, remind me again just why I should have respect for the most corrupt PM in our nations history?
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 8:13 pm
I’m sure thanks are heartfelt on that front.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 8:22 pm
Reddy,
“You’re always the one with all the negative karma.”
Hardly surprising, is it, given that I am essentially an oppositional voice intruding into what otherwise would be a right-wing echo chamber! But admit it … without contrary views, life would be very boring. Hell, reddy … without folks like me,I suspect you’d have to turn communist, just so that you can have something to bitch and moan about (as well as people to abuse and vilify).
As for your “our voice is going to get a lot louder” and “You’d do well to remember that given the social volatility abroad today. Things can change very quickly.”, you really should check out http://www.socialistvoice.ca/?p=375 … as I’ve had cause to note before, your rhetoric and worldview exactly mirror that of the hard left. Exactly.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 8:24 pm
She played her end game with great skill and professionalism and will serve as a model of exemplary behavior. This was not always present in her career where petty small mindedness was present. But never mind that, she leaves as a true pro’ and I admire her for that.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 8:26 pm
THE REAL COST OF HELEN CLARK
As Helen rides off into the sunset I did a little maths
27 years, (9 as PM) and wondered what did her time
in parliament really cost us as a country.
I guess for about 19 years she earned approximately $100K
so that’s $1.9 million + 9 years at around $250K – that’s another
$2.25 million
So all in all her 27 years have cost the NZ taxpayer about $4.2 million dollars
Value for money?
Vote:Or political pimp, spending 27 years prostituting the NZ taxpayer?
April 8th, 2009 at 8:50 pm
Helen Clark’s valedictory was a disappointment. It lacked a “sense of occasion” in that:
- it was delivered in predominantly down-tone style;
- despite containing many “thank you”s, it was surprisingly self-congratulatory;
- there was an almost complete absence of humour;
- aspirations for NZ’s future were not evident;
- the speech lacked any call for national unity in meeting future challenges.
For me, Ms Clark’s address encapsulated neatly the political principles and ambitions for NZ of our former Prime Minister. She came across as personally ambitious, dedicated to defined social causes, incredibly hardworking, intelligent, not particularly tolerant of opposing views, not strong on humility, and strangely aloof from what I would regard as the ideals of ordinary New Zealanders. While her political faithful will isolate a number of her statements that they consider worthy of quotation in future years, my overall conclusion was that the valedictory was far from noteworthy or memorable.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 9:14 pm
Yes, I think Calendar girl has the best take. For me, that speech represents much of Clark, essentially souless, echoing her relentless driving passion to garner and use power personally for her own satisfaction. It was an empty speech, and given her previous behaviour, received far better than she deserved. I think it will be trotted out as an example by those too shallow to see what was really behind it, a vacuum of intellect without feeling, of a lust for power that soured and ultimately belittled her personally. It goes through the motions but doesn’t engage.
The UN is the right place, then, for Helen Clark. A place so mired in its own form of power without responsibility, of corruption on a scale both so petty yet so vast and all encompassing, she will fit right in. She will enjoy the illusion and the trappings of power, make a good deal of money, and yet have zero tangible effect on anything in this world remotely comnnected to people’s wellbeing or prosperity.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 9:23 pm
Helen Clark becomes other people’s problem now.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 10:09 pm
Getstaffed (8:13) – LOL worth 10 karmas that one!
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 10:13 pm
The era of the politics of envy is over?
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 10:19 pm
OECD rank 22 kiwi
Yes, finally. Now we can start to celebrate success again. Both are out but only one has left the building. Next.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 10:22 pm
3-coil
It was great wasn’t it. Sublimely subtle.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 10:24 pm
OECD, on hold perhaps… but not over. While there is an identifiable underclass in NZ, they will be manipulated by those socialists who are empowered by keeping those people both poor and dependent on the state for their miserable existences. Helen Clark was masterful at cultivating this power base. Others will follow. Sadly.
Vote:April 8th, 2009 at 10:37 pm
forgive them helen
Vote:for they know not what they do
or say, most of em
April 8th, 2009 at 10:56 pm
your rhetoric and worldview exactly mirror that of the hard left.”
Vote:And just like Stalin, a raving mother’s boy. Spooky.
April 8th, 2009 at 11:19 pm
Dear Leader which art heading to NY
Vote:Helen be thy name
Thy Deputy Directorship has come
Thy will be done in the UN as it were in NZ
Give us this day our daily rebuilding
And forgive us our transgressions when we spend out tax cuts
And never lead us again into the policies of envy
But deliver us by leaving
For thine was the period of most lost opportunity for ever and ever amen.
April 9th, 2009 at 7:52 am
Didn’t waste my time listening to or reading her speech.
Vote:The fact that it was her last was the only point worthy of any interest.
Bring on Cullen’s.
April 9th, 2009 at 11:35 am
Red, I fear you’ve got a disappointment on the horizon. This government will not likely be nearly different enough to make you happy. Honestly, I don’t think any could. My comprehension isn’t lacking, your sense of proportion needs recalibration however.
Vote:April 9th, 2009 at 11:59 am
DEMOCRACY MUM:………..In adding up what she has cost us you omit to add on the $100 million in excess payments to the United Nations Development Fund which secured her current position as it’s head.
All in all I think Dr. Michael BASSETT summed up her main achievement,” She changed the Labour Party from a Party for the Workingman to a party for the Strident Woman.”
Vote:April 9th, 2009 at 12:39 pm
Bassett’s a professional curmudgeon. It’s interesting that it’s all those people that turfed him out that are such bastards. Odd coincidence.
Vote:April 9th, 2009 at 6:42 pm
Hopefully this is the last we hear from commie Klark. Good riddance.
Vote:April 9th, 2009 at 6:46 pm
But he’s right Paul. LOL
Handle it.
Vote:April 9th, 2009 at 11:03 pm
Mission Accomplished.
Vote: