General Debate 23 February 2011
February 23rd, 2011 at 8:49 am by David FarrarNote apart from an earthquake thread, there will probably be no other posts today. I’m not in the mood for politics. So my analysis of the welfare working group report, Hone’s looming expulsion can wait a day or two.
If you need to discuss things political, you can do it here. Please keep the earthquake thread free from politics.
Related posts:
- General Debate 15 Oct 2007
- General Debate
- General Debate 30 June 2011
- General Debate 2 February 2011
February 23rd, 2011 at 9:04 am
My thoughts as well DPF; BMW’s, profilgate MP’s and dyspunctional political parties seem really low on the list of life’s priorities today.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 9:12 am
It is surreal to be here only some 25 Kms from the epicenter of the 6.3 and unable to see any new damage to the physical world . The inner self is vastly different, most are very fragile and a feeling of helplessness and hightened anxiety levels apparent.
Vote:We have had a very quiet standby in the fire rescue service one false alarm, one mistaken address the difference between panama and panarama then a slow 5hour medical evac to CHCH ED during the wee small hours.
Highway was in good shape apart from some liquifaction and surface degradation around Halswell.
ED at CHCH Public was serene efficiency with the Mass Casualty Incident protocols apparently working well.
No police presence where we were traveling but the military had the curfew in place.
February 23rd, 2011 at 9:17 am
Its hard to get excited about anything today.
Its painful to see fellow Kiwi’s in need.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 9:28 am
Hone doesn’t seem to be important to anyone except Hone today.
Could be a lesson of some kind in that.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 9:42 am
Difficult question to answer David. Same goes for media – informative versus intrusive. It was noted after the September earthqhake that many people did get reassurance from being noticed and not left feeling ignored.
Politicians are on a hiding to nothing, if they visit stay they will be criticised, if they don’t go close they will also be criticised. Usually the criticism seems to be based on political preferences rather than pragmatism.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 9:44 am
What can people outside Christchurch do? I feel very unhelpful here in Wellington.
It’s very sad for a lovely city. I spent three very enjoyable years down there. Despite all the damage, I’m heartened and a amazed that some of the masonry buildings look untouched. E.g. the old Post Office in the square. And some of the old university. Testament to the civil/structural engineering profession.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 9:50 am
What can people outside Christchurch do? I feel very unhelpful here in Wellington.
Usually donating blood, but apparently the Red Cross isn’t too worried at the moment(!)
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 9:54 am
Aren’t the Democrats quickly turning their name into an oxymoron!? Now Democrats have fled Indiana, like their Wisconsin namesakes, in order to stymie the democratic process. I hear next year Obama’s campaign slogan will be “Yes We Ran”.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 10:00 am
And it’s goodbye to philu until late April. I can go back to using Chrome at least until then.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 10:04 am
That’s a confused rant, RN. The Dems are exercising their democratic rights, as part of a democratic process.
In the
feraloops, federal houses, have you heard of the filibuster?And did you know that in Wisconsin, when the governor got wind of the Dems plan leave the state, a State Trooper patrol was sent to escort at gunpoint the Dems leader to the House, as his mere presence was all that was required for a quorum?
No, I didn’t think you would know that…
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 10:04 am
Damn I missed it rightnow. Always like to see the lefty moron go down.
Of course he may not be back if he gets a special invitation from Paula to drop by and explain himself.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 10:05 am
What’s Phil done now?
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 10:06 am
Of course Luc sees it as a democratic right for lefties to NOT do the bloody jop they are paid for RN.
It makes perfect sense… if you’re a socialist crapweasle.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 10:06 am
He fled the sate to avoid a democratic process Luc. I’m sure you approve.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 10:08 am
Luc, I’m not unable to read the news you know. The oxymoron teams have to flee to states without a Republican governor or else they will be arrested and forced back to do their jobs. Democrat governed states are ok with them abandoning their jobs. It would be great if they could be sacked for abandonment of employment for three days, like I can be.
It’s not a filibuster (you probably should look up what that is because you’re wrong) – it’s running away from a vote. Subverting the democratic process to be exact.
And you should read the Earthquake II thread to see what phlu’s got banned for.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 10:10 am
Yes, they ran. Heehee.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 10:24 am
And if it was the other way around, you would supporting the Red’s right to exercise their democratic rights. Exactly how is liberty to travel subverting the democratic process?
And they went in support of the 70-80,000 who were demonstrating in the streets to save the strong public service ethos of that state, much as we used to have here.
And bear in mind two things – the state is nowhere near broke and the governor did not campaign on a policy of slash and burn. Slashing or eliminating state pensions for long term employees is part of the bill.
And if you can’t see the similarity between the filibuster and staying way to avoid a vote, well, it just shows your bias.
But this is a right wing blog, right?
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 10:33 am
Admission you were wrong by omission, thank you for playing Luc.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 10:37 am
AFL_CIO claims to “own” the Messiah. Unionists to the fore!
http://michellemalkin.com/2011/02/22/afl-cio-white-house/
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 11:10 am
RN
Steel yourself and take a look at a different point of view
http://www.democracynow.org/2011/2/21/we_have_a_fire_in_the
And remember that throwaway dismissals say more about the sender than the recipient. Either my point was spot on, so you had to ignore it, or it just sped over your head!
By the way, I took a look at Phil’s banning and have left my thoughts over there.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 11:20 am
Luc, in this matter I have a point of view that I am satisfied is consistent with the greater good. That POV is that public sector unions should not be in a position to gain ever increasing benefits (medical, pension etc) that are hugely at odds with what the taxpayers who fund them receive. While a struggling worker in the private sector retires with a pension that will barely enable him to live, the public sector worker retires with lavish benefits funded by the private sector worker.
Your ignorance of what filibuster means still has me laughing.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 11:50 am
I don’t see philu on the earthquake II thread, presume DPF deleted it, I’m guessing he ignored the advice that the thread should be non-political. Sort of annoys me, I just got RIP on the weekend to get rid of him, and now he goes and gets banned. Could have saved my time.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 11:51 am
PaulL, sorry I was wrong, it was on the first earthquake thread.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 12:06 pm
RN
Ah, your idea of social and economic advancement is to make as many people as poor as possible to slake your jealousy.
Do remember, that many in the private sector retire with adequate pensions (the bankruptcy of your idology is shown by the use of the word “lavish”). Those in the public sector are just as entitled to pensions in a nation dominated by private plans.
Those plans have been fairly bargained for, and, if you had but perused the link I provided, you would see that ALL the public sector unions involved have already collectively agreed to the cuts proposed by the governor.
This is purely an attack on collective bargaining in a state that was at the forefront of the organisation of labour in the US. Here’s a backgrounder http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/26315908/vp/41674668#41674668
Go, be a devil…take peek…
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 12:23 pm
Hmm. So when I turn off RIP, and look through that thread, I have to say I’m surprised. Phil was almost coherent, and I didn’t really see anything actionable from him, until a few people started in on abusing him just for existing. Now maybe DPF deleted some of his stuff, but if what I see on that thread is all there is, then he was pretty good until a bunch of people piled onto him for no good reason (other than the fact that the other 364 days of the year he’s insane, but I’m not sure that’s reason enough). I’m not one to defend Phil, but he looks a bit hard done by there. I won’t miss him though.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 12:40 pm
Luc,
“Ah, your idea of social and economic advancement is to make as many people as poor as possible to slake your jealousy.” You seem to have mistaken me for a socialist.
Anyways, In 1943, a New York Supreme Court judge held:
To tolerate or recognize any combination of civil service employees of the government as a labor organization or union is not only incompatible with the spirit of democracy, but inconsistent with every principle upon which our government is founded. Nothing is more dangerous to public welfare than to admit that hired servants of the State can dictate to the government the hours, the wages and conditions under which they will carry on essential services vital to the welfare, safety, and security of the citizen. To admit as true that government employees have power to halt or check the functions of government unless their demands are satisfied, is to transfer to them all legislative, executive and judicial power. Nothing would be more ridiculous.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 12:41 pm
Super-General Petraeus has a Howard moment ( for those who remember Howard winning an election by suggesting that Afghan refugees were throwing their own children into the sea, thus proving that Aussies can be as gullible as your average Yank):
And then we have the US claiming it has killed (ie murdered) 581 “militants” with drone strikes in Pakistan. Closer inspection shows that the US defines militants much the same way as Israel defines Hamas operatives: male, between 15-64. No investigation, no trial, just a bored military analyst watching a TV screen and brightening up his day by hitting the kill switch.
And after all this needless killing of civilians and destroying one and half countries (well, taking its turn, really, in Afghanistan) the US is opening direct talks with the Taliban.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 12:45 pm
That same Supreme Court used to legally justify slavery, racial and sexual discrimination, and has always acted to strike out at organised labour.
There is nothing particularly noble about supreme courts, as the US one showed again in the case of Florida when it handed Dubya his illegitimate win.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 12:45 pm
PaulL – I also won’t miss him, and I won’t miss having to use Firefox to RIP him (Chrome being my preferred browser).
Vote:He had his moments, but I look on his 2 months away from KB as a positive for him. If he’s really going to make anything out of his website he needs to put a lot more energy into it rather than spend all day on KB.
February 23rd, 2011 at 12:50 pm
Luc, and the Democrats used to be the pro-slavery party.
How about you address the content of the statement?
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 12:56 pm
RN, let me run this past you very slowly so you can take your time…
(ellipses borrowed from Phil, since he won’t need then for a while)
cf
Democrats leaving the state…
to block…
or delay…
Senate action…
on a bill…
Take an IQ pill or give yourself and uppercut, whichever suits…
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 1:00 pm
RN, I find the content you ask about offensive.
It is at odds with our system and breaches human rights in general.
Why you would quote such biased tripe approvingly is beyond me, as it has absolutely no relevance in the current situation in Wisconsin.
What this boils down to is:
You are against the right of collective bargaining, I am for it.
Let’s leave it at that.
Toddler’s woken up anyway…
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 1:02 pm
Sorry to burst your bubble Luc, but a filibuster is not enacted by fleeing the state.
“Specifically, it is the right of an individual to extend debate, allowing a lone member to delay or entirely prevent a vote on a given proposal”
See the words there, “to extend debate”. It means when the house has it’s quorum and is debating. Not running away to avoid the house reaching its quorum.
“Take an IQ pill or give yourself and uppercut” = two ‘own goals’.
Now run away like a good oxymoron.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 1:12 pm
Franklin D Roosevelt on public sector unions:
“Meticulous attention should be paid to the special relationships and obligations of public servants to the public itself and to the government. All Government employees should realize that the process of collective bargaining, as usually understood, cannot be transplanted into the public service. It has its distinct and insurmountable limitations … The very nature and purposes of Government make it impossible for … officials … to bind the employer … The employer is the whole people, who speak by means of laws enacted by their representatives …”
And how do you respond to that Luc?
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 1:13 pm
RN
You fucking wanking pedant
Obviously Monty Python would have left you cold.
so stupid
Fuck off to behind your RIP wall that all you loony right wingers hide behind.
[DPF: 20 demerits]
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 1:22 pm
Sigh……Phool goes only to be replaced with the Jew hating Luc.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 1:49 pm
That Gen. Petraeus story isn’t being carried by anyone with any credibility. *This thread* makes the top half of a google search for it.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 2:06 pm
@ paulL, go to the end of yesterdays GD to see where it began, you might just change your mind about people laying into him.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 2:24 pm
Do we ban people from driving for life?
Surely this guy has forfeited his right to be put in charge of a motor vehicle ever again.
http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/crime/4691755/I-hate-you-husband-tells-drink-driver
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 2:24 pm
[DPF: 20 demerits]
Totally deserved. But well worth it.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 2:30 pm
RN
Talk about flogging a dead horse! Get over it. FDR was wrong, OK? We don’t have the same battle here, OK? Go and join ACT and the BRT, though, and you will find a small remnant of soulmates, leftovers from Roger Douglas’ heydays, long gone, thank whatever god takes your fancy.
Scrubone
And you have never heard of the self-imposed censorship of the US mainstream media?
But, of course, any story put where those damn A-rab types are quoted has gotta be lies, right?
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 2:33 pm
It could be the case of more madness from a criminal dictator:
http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,2052961,00.html
There’s been virtually no reliable information coming out of Tripoli, but a source close to the Gaddafi regime I did manage to get hold of told me the already terrible situation in Libya will get much worse.
Among other things, Gaddafi has ordered security services to start sabotaging oil facilities. They will start by blowing up several oil pipelines, cutting off flow to Mediterranean ports. The sabotage, according to the insider, is meant to serve as a message to Libya’s rebellious tribes: It’s either me or chaos.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 2:47 pm
Now for a human interest story that appears just when one is uplifted by the empathy shown to the EQ victims:
http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/4691680/Overstayers-kids-swap-school-to-cover-tracks
First, the headline should really read “Kiwi Kids…” as the children are New Zealanders, whose father died and whose mother understandably wants the children to remain in their country of birth, rather than Tuvalu (one island at high risk from sea level rise and aquifer contamination).
Kate Wilkinson hides behind bureaucratic barriers.
So we are hounding the kids to get to their mother.
What on earth is all this doing to to the kids’ heads?
While the report only gives us one side of the story, I hope someone in the legal fraternity turns up assist the kids and their mother, like they did in the Ahmed Zaoui case.
Sometimes, we just have to take the road of least harm, and in this case it cries out that this woman should be allowed to remain in New Zealand with her Kiwi children.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 2:59 pm
You expect me to run off to DPF like that snivelling Right Now, BB?
You’ll get your next holiday soon enough without my help, never fear.
For those who visit, because I take exception to the many crimes of the state of Israel, I hate Jews, according to Big Bruv.
I also take exception to the many crimes of our western-supported dictators the world over, so that makes me Arab-hating, African-hating, South-American hating (are there any of those left over there?)…have I missed anyone?
Oh, and I take strong exception to US and British crimes, like illegal invasions and extraordinary rendition, so that makes me US and Pom-hating.
Jeez, whose left?
Oh, I take strong exception to being pinged for demerits for a restrained outburst of exasperation at a posters lack of intelligence, but comments like those of Big Bruv pass undemerited.
But don’t worry DPF, I don’t hate you
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 3:02 pm
Funny how people revert to type.
Vote:Take Luc Hansen for example.
Out thought, out debated, lost the argument. Whats his fall back position ?
Try to denigrate, abuse his opponent personally, call his opponent names.
Throw his toys out of the cot.
Class act Luc. Not.
February 23rd, 2011 at 3:12 pm
“BREAKING NEWS: Hone Harawira has quit the Maori Party and cut a deal to protect his hold on the Tai Tokerau seat at this year’s election.
Vote:In a joint statement released after the Maori Party council finished its hearing today, Harawira and Maori Party president Pem Bird said neither wanted to see the party “destroyed by in-fighting”.
“We have come to the point where it is agreed it would be best for myself [Harawira] and the Maori Party to part ways and focus on issues,” the statement said.
Harawira would continue to serve as the Tai Tokerau MP and would stand at this year’s election as an independent MP or as a member of another party.
February 23rd, 2011 at 3:15 pm
And you have never heard of the self-imposed censorship of the US mainstream media?
Yes, and other conspiratorial theories promoted by leftists when their predictions don’t work out. If it were a real story, the MSM would be all over it in every corner of the world. You can’t blame the US for anti-US publications in Europe for not running a story.
But who knows, it may be picked up more widely in the days to come. Didn’t say it wouldn’t – but your immediate leap to “oh, it’s censorship” is enlightening as to your mindset.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 3:21 pm
Sigh, should have searched more thoroughly. It is real.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2011/02/21/AR2011022103256.html
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 3:23 pm
Luc
I would be far more interested in what you had to say re the middle east if you were not such a one eyed moron who sees everything that Israel does as evil while excusing every terrorist act by Hamas and the Palestinians.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 3:26 pm
Regarding the “Fleebaggers”; Republicans have used that tactic: http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,966938,00.html . At that time the US Senators were dragged back at gunpoint- or at least, at what would have been called gunpoint if it were Democrats being made to listen to arguments that they oppose.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 3:30 pm
The LSE has announced that it is severing ties with the Ghadafi family. It’s an interesting association, and perhaps what has happened in Libya will make it pause before it so readily sucks up to dictators.
Saif Ghadafi, who appeared on Libyan TV with a rather weird but scary speech supposedly intended to rally the people, but was really a declaration of war, is Muammar’s second son and reputed heir-apparent, and a grduate of LSE.
He gave this talk http://www.lse.ac.uk/resources/podcasts/rss/publicLecturesAndEvents.rss to an audience at the LSE last year.
What struck me at the time was not so much the content of the talk, and his very pleasant and educated demeanor, but the tone of the questions from the audience at the end.
No-one took him to task for his father’s 40 year tyrannical regime and the wasting of billions of dollars of oil revenues. I found that rather unsettling at the time, even more so now we have seen his true colours.
He said he will fight to the last bullet. He should be careful. The last bullet might be the one with his name on it.
The stakes are high over there.
While our thoughts are mainly with our kith and kin in Christchurch, others are suffering not from natural events but from man’s inhumanity to man.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 3:35 pm
Big Bruv, I have never excused a terrorist attack, including the many by Israel. But I do recognise the reasons, even if I disagree with the tactics. You are welcome to debate policies and actions of all parties with me anytime.
122 nations sponsored the UNSC resolution (which carefully reflected official US policy to the “t”) that the US vetoed (14-1 vote in the SC)
My views are the mainstream, not you extremists on here.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 3:36 pm
Grant, they still can be, see my earlier post.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 3:36 pm
The gangster tradition is alive and well in Chicagoland, the Messiah’s homeground.
http://www.foxnews.com/us/2011/02/22/emanuel-early-lead-chicago-mayors-race/
Emanuel Wins Chicago Mayor’s Race
Former White House chief of staff Rahm Emanuel has been elected mayor of Chicago, to succeed the retiring Richard Daley.
With 86 percent of the precincts reporting, Emanuel was trouncing five opponents Tuesday with 55 percent of the vote to avoid an April runoff. Emanuel needed more than 50 percent of the vote to win.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 3:38 pm
@Luc
The man of the people, a legend in his own mind.
Excuse me while I stick my fingers down my throat
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 3:43 pm
Shit, the last I saw he had been banned!
plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose …
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 3:46 pm
While we are otherwise occupied
General Assembly Special Rapporteur on the rights of indigenous peoples, James Anaya –
“In addition to the negative impacts on individual incarcerated individuals and their families, high incarceration rates have a potentially significant impact on Maori political participation, as the New Zealand electoral law specifies that citizens who have been sentenced and imprisoned lose their voting rights,” the report says.
– http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/4687320/UN-told-of-extreme-disadvantage-for-Maori
Prison pop March 31 2010 remand and sentenced = 8469; Maori 51% = 4319
Vote:Maori electoral pop 416750 by total votes cast 143334 = 34.39%
4319 x 34.39 = 1485
So Maori political participation will be compromised enough to comment in the UN, because
1,485 Maori won’t be voting?
And, that’s right – another fucking negative UN comment – and it hasn’t happened yet.
February 23rd, 2011 at 3:48 pm
Lance
That’s a cut above your usual rants. Well done!
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 3:50 pm
The question that needs to be asked is: Why are these peaceful natives in jail?
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 3:52 pm
And Luc I thank you for your well balanced and magnanimous comment
Vote:“My views are the mainstream, not you extremists on here.”
February 23rd, 2011 at 3:53 pm
Yvette
Low voting turnout is yet another symptom of colonialist marginalisation of indigenous or first peoples.
It’s not rocket science.
The way to avoid UN criticism is by not being delinquent in our international obligations – in this case as encapsulated in UNDRIP.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 3:54 pm
Lance
What’s your beef?
In what way, in this instance, is that statement wrong?
Or does it just get up your nose because you can’t string enough words together to refute it?
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 3:59 pm
Luc, FYI I didn’t ask for you to get demerits and I never would.
Vote:I got my satisfaction from you losing your rag, and I’m still laughing.
February 23rd, 2011 at 4:05 pm
***Low voting turnout is yet another symptom of colonialist marginalisation of indigenous or first peoples.
It’s not rocket science.
The way to avoid UN criticism is by not being delinquent in our international obligations***
At least they’re still around to vote, unlike most of the Moriori.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 4:05 pm
What’s my beef?
Vote:You come on here with a superiority complex, insult demean and belittle those that have a contrary view to you. Your views on ‘Israel = bad’ in particular are shallow and ignorant.
We are meant to merrily tolerate of your insults as a matter of course.
February 23rd, 2011 at 4:10 pm
“Why are these peaceful natives in jail?”
Probably because they have been bad bastards, like the other 49% of the prison population. But that is too simple for the UN.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 4:14 pm
I see that John Hatfield has quit the apartheid party, while that in itself is news check out the dirty little deal the Apartheid party has done with Hatfield to keep the seat safe from Labour.
BREAKING NEWS: Hone Harawira has quit the Maori Party and cut a deal to protect his hold on the Tai Tokerau seat at this year’s election.
In a joint statement released after the Maori Party council finished its hearing today, Harawira and Maori Party president Pem Bird said neither wanted to see the party “destroyed by in-fighting”.
“We have come to the point where it is agreed it would be best for myself [Harawira] and the Maori Party to part ways and focus on issues,” the statement said.
Harawira would continue to serve as the Tai Tokerau MP and would stand at this year’s election as an independent MP or as a member of another party.
The joint statement said Harawira would not stand for any other seat and the Maori Party would not stand a candidate for his seat at this year’s election.
“I will have my own policies [but] I will be happy to meet with the caucus to discuss issues of common concern,” Harawira said.
He would give his proxy vote to the Maori Party.
“I will focus on the issues, rather than the personalities and will not speak disparagingly of one another.”
Harawira was not present at the Ruamata Marae, east of Rotorua, for the Maori Party council meeting.
In his own statement released this afternoon, Harawira acknowledged “the devastation caused to the people and the communities of Christchurch” by the earthquake, which he said was “rightly in the hearts and minds of all New Zealanders” at the moment.
He said he was “extremely disappointed” that the findings of a disciplinary committee were released yesterday.
“I did not lead the 2004 Foreshore and Seabed March from Te Rerenga Wairua to Parliament that gave birth to the Maori Party, to see it destroyed by infighting five years later, and I understand the vital importance of putting the problems of the past few weeks behind us so that we can all move on,” he said.
“I am comfortable with the view that we have come to a point where we can all agree that it is best for me and the party to go our separate ways, and to focus on the issues that are crippling Maori people, and indeed Pasifika and Pakeha people living in poverty throughout this country.
“I also agree that in the best interests of advancing our people’s future, we focus on the issues rather than the personalities, and that we not speak disparagingly of one another.”
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 4:22 pm
And the slow descent into Third-World status may continue due to the inability to take the radical measures needed. Akin to given the patient aspirin to combat a cancer.
John Armstrong opines on welfare reform.
The final report of the Welfare Working Group is not as tough on so-called “welfare dependency” as it might have been.
However, the Government will deem it tough enough, thank you very much, especially in an election year.
The Government-appointed task force has stopped short, for example, of recommending highly contentious, American-style time-limited benefits.
But some of the recommendations are still pretty radical by New Zealand standards.
National may still pick up some of the more radical suggestions. But in being selective – rather than implementing the whole report holus-bolus – National can make itself look moderate on welfare reform compared with yesterday’s report.
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/politics/news/article.cfm?c_id=280&objectid=10708123
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 4:24 pm
Hone Harawira –
“I also agree that in the best interests of advancing our people’s future, we focus on the issues rather than the personalities, and that we not speak disparagingly of one another.”
Does this somehow mean that those formerly accused of cuddling up to the National Party are no longer personalities [ie – people] but some sort of ‘issues’?
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 4:32 pm
Lol…somebody has spat the dummy.
http://blog.greens.org.nz/2011/02/19/general-debate-february-19-2011/#comment-206824
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 4:35 pm
RN
I didn’t lose my rag.
I was laughing while I posted it! It was fun! But I was surprised DPF got there so quickly. I guess just goes to show that, for some, Big Brother is watching…
But, that episode gives even more reason to think that Phil’s banning was gratuitous victimisation. I suffer more than most here from slings and arrows, and when I finally dish a bit back, I’m the one that gets pinged.
Ah well, no-one ever said right wing loonies were fair, did they?
PS I resile from my earlier comment calling you snivelling as you have said you didn’t go running off to DPF. But the rest still stands (hmmm, can one get pinged twice for the same comments?).
Lance,
I back up my views on Israel with references to international law, UN resolutions and human rights conventions. And I fisk their hasbara to show it up as the self-serving tripe it really is.
You?
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 4:39 pm
Ha ha…you have to love Pinko’s like Luc, they are more than happy to bend any rule or stretch the truth when it suits them but as soon as they are subject to rules they do not like they scream like a girl.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 4:41 pm
“I back up my views on Israel with references to international law, UN resolutions and human rights conventions. ”
Yeah right!..because the UN is such a respectable organisation….
Why would anybody take any notice what the UN has to say, they are a corrupt organisation.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 4:44 pm
“… they scream like a girl.”
Give birth in utter silence would you, big bruv?
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 4:51 pm
Yvette
I take it biology was not your strongest subject.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 4:59 pm
Why bother, big brother
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 5:00 pm
Luc, glad to hear you were laughing when you wrote that, to be honest it did seem out of character for you to concede so easily. At least you learnt what a filibuster really is today.
Not sure how you equate your little outburst at me with ‘dishing it back’. Can you show where I gave it out to you in the first place? But you know, at least you were laughing too.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 5:26 pm
I hope all of you realise that it’s Helen Clarks birthday on Saturday.
Any ideas on what you would like to give her?
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 5:31 pm
Yvette/ big bruv – Hahahaha! Brilliant. Thanks
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 5:40 pm
Johnboy
Vote:What do you give someone who has everything? Penicillin!
I’m sure it would be something along this line, but needs more work.
February 23rd, 2011 at 5:50 pm
just had a read…philu been banned
…for personal abuse
now that is funny
I dont usually read him, nor do I care to read him, but never in the history of Kiwiblog has there ever been one person subjected to the abuse he has ( whether deserved or not).
Piss poor
I think Kiwiblog needs him more than he needs Kiwiblog.
So, who is next ?
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 5:57 pm
Well shit I only have 20 to go till the next banning DR.
However I have a huge belief in my own self control and expect never ever to be banned again ever.
I will never ever mention naughty words again or take the piss out of fellows with gynecomastia again.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 5:59 pm
“I think Kiwiblog needs him more than he needs Kiwiblog.”
He does have his own blog you know. In fact, if you go and visit whoar.co.nz you can then see exactly why your statement tells me you’re little more than a troll.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 6:00 pm
Is there a name for the syndrome where you hate yourself and your own culture
Vote:like Luc Hansen.
Anyone seen it in the DSM IV ?
February 23rd, 2011 at 6:00 pm
@Dirty Rat; It was ticking along quite nicely during his last absence.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 6:02 pm
RN
You were an innocent victim, you poor thing. I just decided to have a bit of fun since there was and is no way you will concede your utter stupidity. I can afford demerits – I rarely incur them (which makes me think I’m just being too bloody polite most of the time!)
I conceded nothing other than that you as thick as …oops better watch out here, DPF must like you…
I spoon fed you the reasoning behind my throwaway reference to filibusters, but your wooden brain couldn’t handle it, could it?
It’s such a common tactic here. Unable to sustain an argument in the face of fact checking, you resort to distractions in a manner bordering on imbecility.
The fact is that the right of public servants to collectively bargain in the US is under widespread attack by Republican governors, not for ideological or fiscal reasons, but to destroy the fund raising base of the Democrats.
Funny thing is, it won’t make any difference to Obama. He’s sucked up to Wall Street so much that his election funds are guaranteed – straight from the pockets of the ordinary bloke, via Wall Street.
In the case of Wisconsin, by the way, the average state pension is $24,000. That’s not “lavish” in the US. And that’s after Wall Street takes a 15% cut on all deposits into their pension funds.
You gotta watch out for those damned facts, don’t you, RN?
And I haven’t seen you reply to Grant’s post of Republicans employing the same “fleeing” tactic.
Too damned inconvenient, huh?
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 6:04 pm
Rightnow
Keep the personal abuse out of it.
There seemed to be more satisfaction throwing abuse at him rather than debating with him, the minute its thrown back he’s banned.
Like I said, I may not like him, but to have him banned for abuse is a wee bit fucking precious
Its a bit like the littlest kid giving the bullys a blood nose and mummy comes to thier rescue.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 6:10 pm
Jeez, Luc stop digging when your in a hole.
Vote:RightNow already buried you. You just cant compete on an intellectual level. Suck it up.
Why do you hate yourself ?
February 23rd, 2011 at 6:12 pm
Dirty rat, you have it wrong. start reading the GD from yesterday @ 12:51 and you’ll see where the name calling and abuse started.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 6:14 pm
@ciaron
The abuse of philu started at 12:51 yesterday ?
Even Redbaiter would defend him on this
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 6:14 pm
DR, I liked the blog better during his last ban, and was initially ambivalent on his return, but got sick of him pretty quick. Yes he took a lot of flak but that is largely because he initiated it. He likes to goad, and is pretty free with the abuse. It wasn’t just what he wrote that I got sick of, it was the retorts they instigated also. And I have to admit occasionally firing off some barbs at him, even incurring some demerits myself. So I switched to FF and RIP’d him. But really kiwiblog does not need philu. And I prefer Chrome.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 6:16 pm
@ dirty rat: hang on, I’ll just go ask him.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 6:23 pm
And yes, Dirty Rat. The abuse HE started. He was the one who kicked off by calling Christians “promoters of abortion”. now on any other day this would not have annoyed me much, but then just flick on a bit an see the abuse I get from him, y’know, as I’m in the middle of a feckin earthquake.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 6:27 pm
Correct Attitude Rightnow
However, the point is that he has been the subject of many many many abuse, he has goaded, and as you have shown, some choose to ignore him, as do I, however I cannot accept he is been banned for personal abuse.
50% of posters would be banned if the same criteria was applied across the board.
The same rules have to apply to everyone, those who abused philu should have the same ban, and its not that hard to find.
That was my point.
It is about fairness
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 6:28 pm
Luc – not even close.
Vote:You got caned on the filibuster definition so you tried to shrug it off.
You couldn’t argue the content of the supreme court quote but instead ran away from the question.
When I quoted Roosevelt saying the same thing suddenly FDR, usually a darling of the left, is ‘wrong’.
I have read Grant’s link and enjoyed it thoroughly. That Republican even had his finger broken when he was taken forcibly to make the quorum. Shall I assume you approve of the Democrat truants being similarly forced?
The fact is the right of public servants to collectively bargain is at odds with the principles of democracy. I find myself in fine company here, both with the Supreme Court of 1943, and with FD Roosevelt. A stance supported by several notable union figures in the US over the years also.
I used to think you were a mental midget Luc, and yet you’ve shrunk.
February 23rd, 2011 at 6:30 pm
@ciarion
What abuse did he give you ?
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 6:31 pm
DR – he accumulated those demerits over a number of episodes and is subject to the same rules as the rest of us. His problem was that he took on all and sundry and clocked up his century with cracking pace.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 6:32 pm
Speaking of Helen Clarks birthday present, what about a moral compass ?
Wonder if she still believes in the “multicultural society” she said over and over again
that New Zealand was now its been exposed as the crock it really is. Let me guess, she doesn’t
give a shit now shes on the gravy train at the UN
How will history view this enigma.
i will admit i even voted for her first time up after the disgusting joke of Shipley and Alamein Kopu.
i really woke up to the ????????????? when she shat on ANZUS with no mandate.
Was her greatest moment spitting on the returning servicemen and women after Vietnam ?
If not, what was it ?
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 6:34 pm
“His problem was that he took on all and sundry and clocked up his century with cracking pace.”
John Wright may be keen to talk to Phool.
As we all know he is available.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 6:36 pm
So what is your suggestion for a lovely pressie then Beryl?
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 6:37 pm
The old hag is going to be 61 you know. So show proper decorum.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 6:38 pm
@ Dirty Rat; just go read the whole thread, if you can’t find it I’ll lend you my glasses
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 6:52 pm
Get Helen a new clock –
Across the Plains the driver zoomed
Like Helen’s motorcade, but I’m afraid
His reckless ride was doomed
Hit a cow and now he’s dead
Not so wreck-less as I said.
- The cow’s dead too,
Impacted at 168 km per hour -
Couldn’t have survived anyhow,
Even were it a sacred cow
Yeah – ‘were’ is plural,
Not singular’s ‘was’
Because
That’s not how
This cow is now
It’s really homogenozed.
So at the Pearly Gates this guy stood
Still get into Heaven if he could
But waiting there, he was amazed
To see millions of clocks where’er he gazed
“What are all these clocks hung here for?”
“They’re there,” St Peter said, “To keep the score
For what it’s worth
Of lies told down there, back on Earth.
Mother Teresa’s you see hasn’t moved at all
Still sits at midday on the wall.
And George W’s, Washington, that is.
Has only two past twelve on his.
That little matter you see
About his father’s cherry tree.”
“Wow! Where’s Helen’s?” But to his dismay
Vote:St Peter explains ” ‘Tis not on display -
Jesus has it in his office – sorry, Man -
Just like God has Winston’s
In use
As His ceiling fan.”
February 23rd, 2011 at 6:54 pm
RN
I can’t be bothered pointing all all the defects in the argument of some octogenarian judge, but the basic premise of denying rights to a segment of the population is called discrimination and is contrary to various international conventions. You can quote as many old or dead notables as you like, but like I told you a long time ago now, just accept we are on different sides of the debate.
Your desperate clinging on to the “filibuster” comparison is risible, but in keeping with the lack of content in your argument.
The argument in the US now is political in nature, as the right of collective bargaining for public servants is well accepted now and is under attack only in Republican controlled states. You can support that, I don’t mind, but just tell the truth: it’s your ideological mindset, that’s it.
As regards PhilU, he does go off half cocked quite easily, but he is provoked continually and gets no protection from DPF. He told Phil that he responds to emails, but he pings others without emails. I’ve never seen him ping anyone for the vile things thrown at me, so one must draw one’s own conclusions – although, of course, unlike some others on here, I can look after myself.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 7:07 pm
Yvettte
God obviously hasn’t caught up with Christopher Hitchens’ view of Mother Theresa http://www.slate.com/id/2090083/
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 7:10 pm
No one gets or should need protection from DPF. Phil does get dumped on but he’s at least as responsible for that as anyone else. He annoys and he goads – he tried it with me for a while but I just ignored him. The actual post he was demerited on may not seem much but for accumulated effect I think he was overdue.
Kiwiblog was definitely a nicer place during his last absence. It’s up to Phil, he could contribute a lot, he’s not entirely stupid, but he knows that what he does annoys and he keeps doing it. He could make an effort to be a positive contributor to the community, or he can keep being a prat and get a few holidays. His choice. I think overall DPF is very lenient on him considering the shit he’s often a part of.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 7:23 pm
As regards PhilU, he does go off half cocked quite easily, but he is provoked continually and gets no protection from DPF.
phil isn’t continually provoked, to the contrary the basic challenge many issue on this blog each using different words, is to his basic personal existential philosophy which he suggests is a beneficial thing.
For he represents Sloth, Pride, Envy – three sins which phil has in spades.
To his credit he doesn’t have or at least express on here Wrath, Avarice, Lust or Gluttony but 3/7 isn’t too good.
Even then it would be fine but apparently phil is proud of himself and his lifestyle which would be admirable were it not for the fact he’s not paying for it himself. Money despite what lefties think isn’t what drives conservatives, principle is what drives us. It’s just that our basic conservative principles are wise therefore we reap the benefits wisdom brings one of which is accumulated wealth over time. Money doesn’t drive anyone, this is what lefties will never and can never understand, and it doesn’t drive conservatives either, but principle does.
That’s why I object to phil’s lifestyle, Luc and I don’t give a fuck if phil finds it uncomfortable or confrontational because as far as I’m concerned while I’m paying for the food and shelter of an adult male with lots of choices and no impediments except those in his own mind, I can. I’ve never BTW objected to phil as a person only to his lifestyle and while phil might quote some amusing insult I’ve issued, I bet when he does, I can dissect it in that light, and prove him quite wrong, yet again. Don’t forget to add the source link when you do that phil.
Also what Pete said. Well said Pete.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 7:51 pm
Luc, to summarise then, you are arguing for the rights of a subset of the population to extort economic advantage over the rest of the population?
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 8:02 pm
Reid As usual you summarise it perfectly.
You omitted you even offered him guidance for his blog. Only to be chastised.
Speaking of his blog. it was a good concept but overrun with personal ideology. Unfortunately he spent too much of his time on KB taunting RW’ers instead of attending to his own blog and aspirations.
Scoop has now taken the idea and looks like they are doing well.
I certainly enjoy Scoop.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 8:07 pm
Oh guys….was it something I said?
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 8:10 pm
I notice Hone has left the Maori Party and going to stand as an Independant or for Another Party – and that the Maori Party are not going to contest the seat. So will we see Sue Bradford and Matt McCarten come in on a new left party ticket – using Hone’s seat as the guarantee of more seats in parliament without having to get over 5%. In the same way that ACT gets more seats without having to get over the 5% threshold.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 8:13 pm
McCarten has written that he doesn’t see that sort of combo as a starter. I don’t think anyone would seriously see Harawira as a good partner in politics, he would have to build his own bunch of followers and I don’t see much chance of that getting anywhere.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 8:19 pm
Can you see no future then for a “Haters and Wreckers” party then PG?
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 8:22 pm
“Get Helen a new clock –”
Belle poésie Yvette.
She certainly needs a new dial.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 8:28 pm
Johnboy 6.36. Keep up with the programme baby, i already suggested a lovlee prezzie for Helen,
a moral compass. Then she could show it to her mate Marg Wilson. Want me to explain ? Just ask .
Luc 6.54 FFS dont you realise you lost the argument. Your dead, just accept it. Do you need a fucken
stake through your heart to prove it to you, you cretin ?
Pete George 7.10. arguing both sides as per usual. Have you ever got a point of view of your own ?
No, didn’t think so.
reid 7.23 fair comment, except, how do you seperate the twerp from his lifestyle ? Do tell. How are they different ?
Vote:your far too soft. bereal.
Also, you just lost it when you said, “Well said Pete”
February 23rd, 2011 at 8:29 pm
You offering to clean her clock/dial for her then Johnboy?
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 8:31 pm
Hey Bereal……missed me?
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 8:34 pm
Sorry Beryl. I don’t read all your novels.
BB: Only if you polish her knob first.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 8:38 pm
@rightnow
He is only on 60 points according to the penguin
not even a banning accumulation
Vote:Im on more for calling the owner a short, fat, bald, glasses wearing, jumped up little shithead
February 23rd, 2011 at 8:39 pm
@ciarnon
Get new glassess
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 8:42 pm
Stolen from another site but may be worth a read…….
If you ever wondered what side of the fence you sit on, this is a great test!
If a Conservative supporter doesn’t like guns, he doesn’t buy one.
If a Labour supporter doesn’t like guns, they want all guns outlawed.
If a Conservative is a vegetarian, he doesn’t eat meat.
If a Labour supporter is a vegetarian he wants all meat products banned for everyone
.
If a Conservative is gay, he quietly leads his life.
If a Labour supporter is gay, he demands legislated respect. and wants everybody to know what gay people do to each other.
If a Conservative is down-and-out, he thinks about how to better his situation.
A Labour supporter wonders who is going to take care of him.
If a Conservative doesn’t like a talk show host, he switches channels.
Labour supporters demand that those they don’t like should be banned.
If a Conservative is a non-believer, he doesn’t go to church.
A Labour non-believer wants any mention of God and religion silenced. (Unless it’s a foreign religion, of course!)
If a Conservative reads this, he’ll forward it so his friends can have a good laugh.
Vote:A Labour supporter will delete it because he’s “offended.”
February 23rd, 2011 at 8:43 pm
True martyrs are usually unjustly penalised for honesty.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 8:53 pm
OK Johnboy. i didn’t pick you for a smartarse. However. Misjudged you baby. But, seeing you brought it
up, what would you get for Helens birthday ?
BB , yep.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 8:57 pm
Lol…the Rat is on a mission!
Free the Auckland 1!
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 8:59 pm
Some bed time reading: a good description of the Reagan years:
I know y’all will ‘preciate it.
RN, so tiresome. So you’re a loony righty, like I said. Live with it.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 9:01 pm
OK Luc…like I am going to read anything written by Noam Chomsky.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 9:02 pm
Hey Luc, was Noam a nudist too ?
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 9:07 pm
Yeah yeah Luc.
But like all straight shooting cowboy heroes Reagan faced up to the enemy and they folded.
That’s more than any other President has done since.
I don’t suspect that the Kenyan will be the next one to do it somehow.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 9:09 pm
“what would you get for Helens birthday ?”
A dose of the shits hopefully Beryl.
Fortunately she hasn’t invited me.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 9:10 pm
Say reid, here’s a chance for you to get some science as an antidote to your climate change denial:
http://feeds.tvo.org/tvobigideas
James Hansen last year. It’s the audio version to save on bandwidth.
And this one’s shorter but really powerful summary of the science:
http://www.adlerpodcast.com/GCCF/adler_gccf_podcast_feed.xml
Gavin Schmidt explaining how, at its most basic level, climate change is caused by an imbalance of 0.6 watts/sq.m – that is, instead of the balance of energy from the sun and returning to space remaining in the equilibrium of the last 10,000 years, which delivered us what we call civilisation, we have absorbed that amount of energy, largely in the oceans, and that is the problem.
It’s not about feelings, reid, it’s about science.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 9:15 pm
Very droll nasska but when the feckin socialist doesn’t like the talk-back he will complain to the appropriate commissioner who will be another useless socialist occupying a position that supports him/her in the manner he/she would never get to in the real world where most of us live.
Vote:And the second useless socialist freeloader would uphold his “brother/sister in their complaint and order a retraction and an on air apology while drawing a 6 figure salary paid by you and me.
meanwhile you and I enjoyed the original item that drew the complaint.
Jeez its easy to create meaningful employment for a political science graduate, proving the value of higher “edukashun.
February 23rd, 2011 at 9:15 pm
“Schmidt defended the scientists named in the 2009-2010 Climatic Research Unit emails controversy, including Michael E. Mann and Phil Jones,”
His credibility is fucked Luc. His blog is therefore shit.
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 9:16 pm
Luc
Read anything by Ann Coulter or Glen Beck lately?
Oh….”It’s not about feelings, reid, it’s about science”
Is that the same Science that has yet to prove any link?, is that the same Science that is far from settled despite the bullshit we keep hearing from the left?
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 9:25 pm
Hey Luc. The Wall Street Journal survey 2000 ranked Reagan as No. 8 Greatest US president of all time.
After 444 days of captivity in Iran while Jimmy Carter rung his hands, the US hostages were freed
the day the Gipper was elected president.
The Ayatolah knew it, you will never get it Luc.
You wont understand this this Luc, but Reagan had a pair. (look it up Luc)
Vote:Why do you hate Ronnie Luc ?
Why do you hate yourself ?
February 23rd, 2011 at 9:33 pm
Answer the question Luc. What are you afraid of? Is there a part of this you deny?
Vote:“you are arguing for the rights of a subset of the population to extort economic advantage over the rest of the population?”
February 23rd, 2011 at 10:00 pm
Luc I can’t be arsed reading AGW. It bores me. However Reagan interests me, and I wonder how much attention you’ve ever paid to the role of his VP in all of those lessor-beneficial things which happened during his Presidency?
Or duh yu jst pretnd he’s ray-gun, hur hur.
?
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 11:31 pm
BB
Actually, I do spend time with Ann and Glenn. One has to know one’s enemies, I say. But I do understand why you can’t read Noam Chomsky. He aims for the intelligent audience.
Right Now
See, right there we part company. What you have done is to set any debate in a narrow, self serving framework. I reject your basic assumption. Collective bargaining is a modern blessing for both employer and employee. In the case of Wisconsin, we have seen massive demonstrations against the governor and now he faces the threat of a general strike if the bill is passed. I do believe he will want to be reelected, and a backdown is on the cards.
reid, you’re a fool.
The science on AGW is pouring in, and it’s getting more urgent by the day. Do me a favour, even though I find you denialists so tiresome, just give me your best shot on what you know that the scientists don’t. And don’t give me climategate – what a hoohaa about nothing.
But I quite liked the idea of Reagan as POTUS to begin with. I figured he was so thick he couldn’t do much harm. Boy, was I wrong there!
There’s no sign of his ray guns actually working yet, is there? Especially now that the Chinese have shown how they can use lasers to bring down satellites. Things in orbit are basically sitting ducks.
By the way, all, it’s great too see massive, non-violent demonstrations in the land of the free instead of the usual shenanigans where the cops automatically turn on protesters. I guess it helps when the cops are on your side!
Vote:February 23rd, 2011 at 11:42 pm
Luc, you do realise you’ve provided evidence yourself why this is bad for the employer, which is the taxpayer.
Vote:General strikes? How is that helping anyone except the union members?
Teachers faking sick days to demonstrate? Aren’t the kids supposed to have a right to an education?
February 23rd, 2011 at 11:51 pm
…just give me your best shot on what you know that the scientists don’t.
http://www.agw_scientists_are_super_mental.com
Vote:February 24th, 2011 at 2:41 am
Big bruv you want to, just occasionally, read something that challenges your ideas. Who know, you might learn something.
Vote:February 24th, 2011 at 7:30 am
The deadly alliance between the Democratic Party and the unions in the US. Same thing happens in NZ.
http://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-room/news/145627-dem-lawmaker-on-labor-protests-get-a-little-bloody-when-necessary
Democrat urges unions to ‘get a little bloody when necessary’
Sometimes it’s necessary to get out on the streets and “get a little bloody,” a Massachusetts Democrat said Tuesday in reference to labor battles in Wisconsin.
Rep. Michael Capuano (D-Mass.) fired up a group of union members in Boston with a speech urging them to work down in the trenches to fend off limits to workers’ rights like those proposed in Wisconsin.
“I’m proud to be here with people who understand that it’s more than just sending an email to get you going,” Capuano said, according to the Statehouse News. “Every once and awhile you need to get out on the streets and get a little bloody when necessary.”
Vote:February 24th, 2011 at 8:04 am
Maggie
I did, it was years ago, that was how I came to the conclusion that socialism is a failed concept.
Vote:February 24th, 2011 at 10:14 am
BB, the opposite of socialism is capitalism, right?
Nowhere in the world is true capitalism practised. Possibly the only example in history was the laissez faire of Victorian England where true capitalism, with its workhouses and debtors prisons, caused such misery it was eventually outlawed.
Today, most Western nations practise a mixed approach to economics, taking the best of both ideologies and recognising the market must be regulated.
So socialism is no more a failed concept than capitalism.
Read more, challenge your ideology. You’ll find it quite fun and a change from just citing the same tired old I hate lefties cliches day after day.
Vote:February 24th, 2011 at 10:24 am
Maggie
“So socialism is no more a failed concept than capitalism.”
Lol…despite socialism failing miserably everywhere it has been implemented, I take it you were born after 1989?
Vote:February 24th, 2011 at 10:30 am
Absurdity to the power of 10.
Vote:Tell that to the Cubans and North Koreans living under opressive, dictatorial regimes.
February 25th, 2011 at 10:42 am
I am not surprised that some here don’t understand the difference between socialism and communism. That says a lot.
Vote:February 25th, 2011 at 10:45 am
Manolo, the “deadly alliance” is between the Democrats and working people. Like most conservatives, you believe unions are separate from workers. They are, in fact, one and the same.
Vote: