Dunstan Sheldon, Hamilton.
Moody blues
Simon Wilson uses the words anxious and fearful to describe the mood of our country, like many/most nations, I believe (Jan 21).
Our Government believes that economic growth is the cure-all, and most of its policies push in that direction. Should we feel thankful we’re not hearing gender-identity mandates and “drill baby drill” as pick-me-ups? Wilson suggests good weather, sporting success, safe speed limits and cycleways play a part in making us feel better. And more important: a cohesive society, keeping our family members here, and a functioning health system even at the cost of higher taxes.
But most of all, to dispel the malaise of anxiety and fearfulness - especially in our young people - is the confidence that we too are doing everything possible to save the planet from destruction. Or what does that generation have to look forward to besides four more years of Trump?
Barbara Darragh, Auckland Central.
Revising recession
Simon Wilson’s state of the nation essay shows he needs help understanding what’s happened.
Firstly, let’s be clear, no government, no matter how bad, could create NZ’s current recession in the space of 12 months. And let’s keep the analysis of how we got here simple.
During the Covid years, our government grossly over-stimulated the economy as it tried to offset the impact of shutdowns. Inflation inevitably followed and our Reserve Bank, for reasons best known to it, wase slow to react with monetary policy adjustments.
Inflation galloped away and then the Reserve Bank came to our “rescue” with OCR adjustments that effectively drove our economy into the ground. Too little initially and then too much latterly, and what we have now is truly a Reserve Bank-engineered recession that we all have to slowly crawl our way out of.
Steve Reindler, St Heliers.
Cabinet credentials
The recent Cabinet reshuffle raises some interesting questions about the particular expertise and experience that ministers bring to the table, as well as our current parliamentary system and the relationship between the executive and legislature.
While our current system is democratic, it does suffer from excessive partisanship and often prioritises political manoeuvring over effective governance. Perhaps it’s time to consider a new system, inspired by the European Commission, where Cabinet ministers are selected from outside the pool of MPs, based on expertise and merit, not just parliamentary affiliation.
Imagine a Cabinet composed of leading scientists, economists and policy experts working together in the country’s best interest. This system would reduce the influence of party politics, leading to more informed and efficient decision-making.
While parliamentary scrutiny remains crucial, (and isn’t that actually the job of all MPs) ministers wouldn’t be bound by party loyalty, allowing them to prioritise national wellbeing. This shift could foster greater public trust in our government.
Let’s explore this alternative. A government focused on expertise and national interest, not just political gain, could be the change we need.
Gary Holmes, Waiuku.
Nurses’ safety
What an indictment on our society to hear that nurses may need stab-proof vests when at work. Totally incomprehensible, but surely if that’s the case then keep hospital doors locked and guarded.
But as is also usually the case in this country, there are no real deterrents or consequences for that sort of behaviour with remorse and cultural background so often being the overriding factors. Surely though if it’s got to this level then politicians need to step in and say enough is enough and then legislate appropriate mandatory penalties. Softly softly just is not working.
Paul Beck, West Harbour.
