Podcasts about new zealand ministry

Let's explore one of New Zealand's most iconic phrases: "Sweet As!" Ever wondered why Kiwis say it and what it really means? Join me as we dive into the history and cultural significance of this quirky expression."The Kiwi Phrasebook" by David McGill (2008)New Zealand Ministry for Culture and Heritage, Te Ara Encyclopedia: https://teara.govt.nzVictoria University of Wellington - Linguistics Department: https://www.victoria.ac.nzNew Zealand Slang and Colloquialisms Guide: https://nzslang.com

In this episode of the Security Insider podcast, we explore the issues surrounding the challenges of social media and artificial intelligence, specifically in the context of online radicalisation. How are these tools being used by extremist groups to target and radicalise at-risk individuals? Why has online radicalisation risen in recent years? What can be done to prevent this type of activity, and how might we recognise and address potential victims of online radicalisation in our own organisations?  We are joined by Paul Ash, chief executive of the Christchurch Call Foundation, and Dr Nicole Matejic to help us better understand these challenges. Paul has extensive experience in public policy, including the cyber, digital, and security sectors. In addition to his role as Chief Executive of the Christchurch Call Foundation, he serves as a member of the Aspen Global Cybersecurity Group with the Aspen Institute, one of the world's leading think tanks on a wide range of topics, including security and global affairs. He was the New Zealand Government representative on the Global Internet Forum to Counter Terrorism and has had a long and illustrious career in government, including 21 years with the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade, where he served as a Diplomat, Deputy Director of the International Security Disarmament Division and a Senior Policy officer, amongst other roles, before becoming the director of National Cyber Policy, Director, National Security Policy and then the Prime Minister's Special Representative on Cyber and Digital security.  In addition to being an Author & National Security focused Behavioural Economist, Dr Nicole Matejic is the Principal Strategic Advisor at The Christchurch Call Foundation. She is also an adjunct Lecturer on Terrorism and National Security at Charles Sturt University and a partner at Immuto Group, where she focuses on National Security and Sovereign Risk. Her books include Social Media, Rules of Engagement, and The Hate Economy - The Lies People Sell That Lead to Violence. 

Q Walker draws a line between circus and UX, shares their experience of being cyber stalked, and unpacks the IA intricacies of emojis. Highlights include: What can designers learn from circus performers? Why did you start researching the information architecture of emojis? Are changes to emojis a form of benevolent censorship? What makes the presentation of the gun emoji interesting? How has embracing your queerness helped you reclaim your bravery? ====== Who is Q Walker? Since late 2023, Q has been the General Manager of The Circus Hub, the centre for circus arts in Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand. Before joining The Circus Hub, Q was an Experience Lead at PaperKite , where they plied their trade of UX strategy and UX research to helping brands like the All Blacks, Volkswagen, The New Zealand Ministry of Health, and Hell Pizza, to better serve their customers. Q's career in design started in the United States at Fidelity Investments in 2012, where they worked as a Communications Design Manager and - among other things - used UX and graphic design skills to create data visualisations, interactive reports and web app interfaces. It was during their time at Fidelity that Q both started and completed a Master of Science in Human Factors in Information Design at Bentley University.  They have also shared their expertise and experiences with audiences at UX New Zealand (more than once) and UXPA's Boston conference. ====== Find Q here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/q-walker/ ====== Liked what you heard and want to hear more? Subscribe and support the show by leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you listen). Follow us on our other social channels for more great Brave UX content! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/TheSpaceInBetween/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-space-in-between/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespaceinbetw__n/ ====== Hosted by Brendan Jarvis: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendanjarvis/ Website: https://thespaceinbetween.co.nz/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brendanjarvis/

A quick zip around the North Island of New Zealand's wine regions, a bit of history, and - well - some silliness, because the host, once again, cannot freaking help herself. Warning: the host was not/NOT involved in the throwing of either fowl or fake phallus, but has marked this episode as explicit due to some adult - stupid & humorous, but adult nonetheless - content. Resources from this episode: Books: The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition (Kindle)], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023) The Wines of New Zealand [The Classic Wine Library (Kindle)], Gibb, R. (2018), Académie du Vin (2024) Websites: Bragato Research Institute: Romeo Bragato https://bri.co.nz/bragato-trust/ Bubbly Professor: Greywacke (and Greywacke Jones) Nickles, J. (12 August 2016) https://bubblyprofessor.com/2016/08/12/greywacke-and-greywacke-jones/ Gimblett Gravels: https://thegimblettgravels.com/about-us/ Guardian: John Oliver can't resist New Zealand MP Steven Joyce's ‘dildogate' - video (15 February 2016) https://www.theguardian.com/film/video/2016/feb/16/john-oliver-cant-resist-new-zealand-mp-steven-joyces-dildogate-video Hawke's Bay Wine: Our Region https://hawkesbaywine.co.nz/our-region/ New Zealand Ministry for Culture and Heritage: James Cook (1 March 2019) https://nzhistory.govt.nz/people/james-cook NGĀ TĀNGATA TAUMATA RAU Dictionary of New Zealand Biography: James Cook, Mackay, J. (Updated November 2007), https://teara.govt.nz/en/biographies/1c25/cook-james New Zealand Wine: https://www.nzwine.com/ Northland Winegrowers: Northland Wine https://northlandwinegrowers.co.nz/ Penguin: Meet Slinky Malinky and Friends! (3 November 2020) https://www.penguin.co.nz/articles/2911-meet-slinky-malinki-and-friends Science Direct: Greywacke https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetary-sciences/graywacke Te Kauwhata Village: Romeo Bragato - Visionary for the NZ Wine Industry https://www.tekauwhatavillage.co.nz/welcome-to-te-kauwhata/romeo-bragato-visionary-for-the-nz-wine-industry/ Vineyards.com: New Zealand Wine Regions: https://vineyards.com/wine-map/new-zealand Waiheke Wine: Waiheke - Island of Wine https://www.waihekewine.co.nz/about-us/ Wairarapa Wine Region: Aotearoa's Small and Mighty Wine Region: https://www.wairarapawine.co.nz/   Glass in Session Episodes Relevant to this Episode: S11E1: Tasmanian Sparkling Wine - History and Devilish Deets https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/s11e1-tasmanian-sparkling-wine-history-devilish-deets S14E5: New Zealand's South Island https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/wine-in-new-zealands-south-island-s14e5 S14E1: Argentina's Sparkling Wine https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/argentinas-sparkling-wine-s14e1 S16E5: Washington Wine https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/washington-wine-s16e4   Glass in Session® swag mentioned in this show: https://www.teepublic.com/user/glass-in-session   Glass in Session® is a registered trademark of Vino With Val, LLC.  Music: “Write Your Story” by Joystock (Jamendo.com cc_Standard License, Jamendo S.A.)

In the episode of Experts in their Field, Council member Eddie Phelan talks to Prof. John Roche,Chief Science Adviser at New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) and Director of MPI On-Farm Support Services

It turns out the giant squid is even more of a sea monster than we previously imagined! These elusive creatures, lurking in the depths of the ocean, are not only bigger but also more powerful than we once thought. With eyes the size of basketballs and tentacles stretching up to 43 feet long, they command awe and respect in the underwater realm. Recent studies have revealed that they're formidable hunters, capable of taking down prey much larger than themselves with their razor-sharp beaks and powerful suction cups. It's like something straight out of a science fiction movie, except it's real life under the sea. #brightside Credit: CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/... Ampullae of Lorenzini: Chiswick Chap, https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Fi... Colossalsquid, https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Fi... Colossal squid: New Zealand Ministry of Fisheries, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Co... Animation is created by Bright Side. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Music from TheSoul Sound: https://thesoul-sound.com/ Check our Bright Side podcast on Spotify and leave a positive review! https://open.spotify.com/show/0hUkPxD... Subscribe to Bright Side: https://goo.gl/rQTJZz ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Our Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brightside Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brightside.... TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@brightside.of... Stock materials (photos, footages and other): https://www.depositphotos.com https://www.shutterstock.com https://www.eastnews.ru ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For more videos and articles visit: http://www.brightside.me Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the late 60's New Zealand Motor Racing found itself in a bind. A few years earlier the Tasman Formula had been written to keep the local fleet of older 2.5-litre ex F1 cars in play. But now the more modern Formula 2, and even a few of the National Formula 1600 cc cars, were embarrassing the older ones. Visiting cars from Europe were either bigger engined ex 1.5-litre F1  cars, or new designs for the upcoming 3-litre F1 with capacity reduced engines, leaving Motor Sport New Zealand with a dilemma.  Whichever way you looked at it, it was going to be expensive. The SCCA appears have come to the same conclusion, with a 1967 amendment to their Formula A allowing Stock Block engines. The gate was open for others to do the same. At the last SCCA race of 1968 SCCA teams were approached, by a New Zealand delegation, to demonstrate their cars in New Zealand. Four teams took up the challenge, and the Kiwi's liked the look of it. Within the year Formula A was a main stream category with Championships for it unfolding in Europe, South Africa, and the Tasman Countries. This presentation looks at the nitty gritty of that first Kiwi Formula A race, as seen through the eyes of this presenter in 1968. Trevor Lister holds Degrees from the University of Canterbury in Mechanical Engineering and Physics. On graduation he joined the New Zealand Ministry of Transport, setting and administrating Automotive Safety Standards. This included standards and protocols for the use of gaseous fuels (CNG and LPG) in motor vehicles. He has served as the New Zealand delegate to the International Association for Natural Gas Vehicles. This led to Consultancy in South Est Asia and South America. He has built and raced competition cars as well as served as a safety scrutineer for Motor Sport New Zealand and occasionally as Clerk of Course for motorsport events. Now retired from active racing he serves as Editor for the Newsletters of the Classic Motor Racing Club of New Zealand. This episode is part of our HISTORY OF MOTORSPORTS SERIES and is sponsored in part by: The International Motor Racing Research Center (IMRRC), The Society of Automotive Historians (SAH), The Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Argetsinger Family - and was recorded in front of a live studio audience. ===== (Oo---x---oO) ===== The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net More Information: https://www.motoringpodcast.net/ Become a VIP at: https://www.patreon.com/ Online Magazine: https://www.gtmotorsports.org/

  Border INVASION is Happening. Crowder breaks down HOW AMERICAN Psycho Newsom speaks stoned cold lies through his “SIN-cere” rhetoric. Tucker Carlson AGREES! Speaking of government lies… did you know a New Zealand Ministry of Health whistleblower Barry Young shared some DATA claiming the hazardous MRNA biotech killed a significant part of the population? Live streaming on Wednesdays 6:30pm (pst) exclusively on RUMBLE Watch Video version on the LINK Donated  to fund the podcast broadcast at: Patreon email: GenerationMarsPodcast@gmail.com

A quick zip around the land of zippy Sauvignon Blancs, characterful Pinot Noirs, serious Chardonnays & lofty aromatics is on deck this week. We pay homage to a few historic characters, geological features, and pop culture references, once again, because the host cannot help herself. Resources from this episode: Books:  The Oxford Companion to Wine [5th Edition, Kindle Edition], Harding, J., Robinson, J., Thomas, T. (2023)  Websites: Bragato Research Institute: Romeo Bragato https://bri.co.nz/bragato-trust/ Central Otago NZ: The Central Otago Wine Story https://centralotagonz.com/discover/our-stories/central-otago-wine-story-2/ New Zealand: Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park https://www.newzealand.com/us/feature/national-parks-aoraki-mount-cook/ New Zealand Ministry for Culture and Heritage: James Cook (1 March 2019) https://nzhistory.govt.nz/people/james-cook NGĀ TĀNGATA TAUMATA RAU Dictionary of New Zealand Biography: James Cook, Mackay, J. (Updated November 2007), https://teara.govt.nz/en/biographies/1c25/cook-james New Zealand Wine: https://www.nzwine.com/ Te Kauwhata Village: Romeo Bragato - Visionary for the NZ Wine Industry https://www.tekauwhatavillage.co.nz/welcome-to-te-kauwhata/romeo-bragato-visionary-for-the-nz-wine-industry/ Glass in Session Episodes Relevant to this Episode: S9E3: Ice Wine/Icewine/Eiswein (Baby?) https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/s9e3-ice-wineicewineeiswein-baby S11E1: Tasmanian Sparkling Wine - History and Devilish Deets https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/s11e1-tasmanian-sparkling-wine-history-devilish-deets S14E1: Argentina's Sparkling Wine https://glassinsession.libsyn.com/argentinas-sparkling-wine-s14e1 Other Podcasts Referenced in this Episode: Wine Two Five 73 New Zealand Wine, Part 1 - More Than Bungee Jumping (With Celia Hay, Owner of New Zealand School of Food and Wine) https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/new-zealand-wine-part-1-more-than-bungee-jumping/id986650051?i=1000374811669 Wine Two Five 74 New Zealand Wine, Part 2 - Mini Cast With Mighty Wines https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/new-zealand-wine-part-2-mini-cast-with-mighty-wines/id986650051?i=1000375080357   Glass in Session® swag mentioned in this show: https://www.teepublic.com/user/glass-in-session Glass in Session® is a registered trademark of Vino With Val, LLC. Music: “Write Your Story” by Joystock (Jamendo.com cc_Standard License, Jamendo S.A.)

At the 2023 APEC Forum in Detroit, Malaysian Deputy Minister Liew Chin Tong tells Ray Suarez how spaces like APEC are key to balancing relationships with competing superpowers. Then, Deputy Secretary Vangelis Vitalis shares how the demand for traditional Kiwi exports has kept Aotearoa's economy afloat.   Guest:   Liew Chin Tong, Deputy Minister of Malaysian Investment, Trade and Industry   Vangelis Vitalis, Deputy Secretary, New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade   Host:   Ray Suarez   If you appreciate this episode and want to support the work we do, please consider making a donation to World Affairs. We cannot do this work without your help. Thank you.

Professor Sir Peter Gluckman is an internationally recognized biomedical scientist, and currently heads Koi Tū: The Centre for Informed Futures at the University of Auckland. From 2009-2018 he was the inaugural Chief Science Advisor to Prime Ministers Sir John Key, Sir Bill English, and Dame Jacinda Ardern, was Science Envoy for the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and is currently the President of the International Science Council He has received the highest scientific and civilian honours in New Zealand and numerous international scientific awards as well as authoring several books and over 700 scientific papers. Sir Peter Gluckman joined Simon Barnett and James Daniels for Six and a Song. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The New Zealand Law Society and the New Zealand Ministry of forein Affairs and Trade have both spoken out about Kiribati's appointment of the Attorney General, Tetiro Semilota, as the acting Chief Justice.

This episode discusses the challenges associated with migration and human displacement in the context of climate change, and explores policy responses available to international organisations. Given the complex interactions between climate change, conflict and displacement, many humanitarian agencies and NGOs are only just beginning to come to grips with the implications of climate change on displacement issues.  Our host, Roshan Melwani, is joined by Dr. Nina Hall, an Assistant Professor of International Relations at John Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies. She previously worked as a Lecturer at the Hertie School of Governance, and was a Policy Officer at the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Her research focuses on international organizations, transnational advocacy, climate adaptation, and global refugee governance. Dr. Hall's book “Displacement, Development and Climate Change”, explores how international organisations have evolved their mandates over time to incorporate climate change as an area of focus. This podcast delves into and builds on the insights offered by the book to see how our global humanitarian institutions can remain fit for purpose to respond to the challenge of climate change.   This episode is hosted and researched by Roshan Melwani. Our executive producers are Livey Beha and Read Leask. To keep up with the latest on our episodes, follow us on Twitter @https://twitter.com/oxfordpolicypod (oxfordpolicypod) and on Instagram @https://www.instagram.com/oxfordpolicypod_ (oxfordpolicypod_). 

The son of a hunting and fishing store owner, and an avid outdoorsman himself, Brad Dannefaerd worked with New Zealand Fisheries for nearly 20 years before retiring to found his own company. During his long and colorful career, he has worked alongside agencies in Australia, Canada and the United States, and literally written the book on defensive tactics and training for the New Zealand Ministry of Fisheries. Today, his company trains and equips everyone from law enforcement to librarians, teaching “people who deal with people” how to manage interactions safely and effectively.  Our Sponsors:  Thin Green Line Podcast Sovereign Sportsman Solutions “A Cowboy in the Woods” Book Hunt of a Lifetime Maine's Operation Game Thief Wildlife Heritage Foundation of NH International Wildlife Crimestoppers Here's what we discuss: One big international family An introduction to New Zealand The traditional haka All NZ agencies under one jurisdiction Type of offender has changed  We had to get a lot smarter More authority than police Working with Customs agencies Building intelligence to make a larger case Targeting the high-level offender Only two licenses required  Still able to enforce Fish & Game laws NZ police do not carry firearms Enforcement by consent Never lost a fisheries officer Different style of enforcement Bright blue uniforms Non-escalation vs. de-escalation  Founding CERT (Compliance, Enforcement & Regulatory Training) NZ Police purchased CERT technical comms package  Never met a game warden I didn't like Game wardens are a tight knit community Developing contacts worldwide Credits Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores Producer: Jay Ammann Social Media: Stacey DesRoches Find More Here: Website Apple Podcasts Spotify Facebook Facebook Fan Page Instagram Twitter Spreadshirt Stitcher TuneIn Megaphone YouTube RSS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Indonesia Young Leaders Programme (INSPIRASI) adalah program belajar di Selandia Baru selama 6 bulan. Program ini untuk anak muda dari kawasan timur Indonesia dan dikelola oleh UnionAID bekerja sama dengan Yayasan Bursa Pengetahuan Kawasan Timur Indonesia (BaKTI) dan Universitas Teknologi Auckland (AUT) serta didukung oleh Kementerian Pemuda dan Olahraga Republik Indonesia dan New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) @nzembassy_indonesia. Program ini telah dimulai semenjak tahun 2018, sampai sekarang. Nikolas Imbiri adalah salah satu penerima beasiswa ini, pada tahun 2021 lalu. Info lengkap kunjungi https://bit.ly/INSPIRASI2022

A New Zealand man received as many as 10 COVID-19 vaccinations in one day on behalf of other people, according to the country's Ministry of Health.It's believed that the man was paid to get the shots under the names of other people .In response to questions from Stuff, Astrid Koornneef, the Ministry of Health's Covid-19 vaccine and immunisation programme group manager, said the ministry was “aware of the issue”.According to Stuff, the man visited several vaccination centers to get the shots and was paid to do so. The publication had already reported in October that people may have been assuming the identities of others and getting COVID-19 vaccinations on their behalf, in order to allow unvaccinated people to enjoy the same privileges as the vaccination."We are taking this matter very seriously. We are very concerned about this situation and are working with the appropriate agencies," said Astrid Koornneef, the New Zealand Ministry of Health's Covid-19 vaccine and immunization program group manager.It is unknown where, exactly, the man got his shots, but Koornneef recommended he should seek clinical advice as soon as possible.Nikki Turner, a professor at Auckland University, told Stuff that there was no data on the safety of receiving so many vaccines in a single day.“The Comirnaty vaccine, the one we're using, is designed based on early clinical data that works out what's the right amount to give a good immune response and to give a good safety profile, and we do know that a high dose vaccine creates more side effects.“So this is definitely not recommended … we have no evidence as to what side effects somebody would have with this amount of vaccine.

Executive producer Robyn Thirkill Instagram:@Flossies_Farmstead LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robyn-thirkill-701689212/ Please Support Congressional Dish – Quick Links Contribute monthly or a lump sum via PayPal Support Congressional Dish via Patreon (donations per episode) Send Zelle payments to: Donation@congressionaldish.com Send Venmo payments to: @Jennifer-Briney Send Cash App payments to: $CongressionalDish or Donation@congressionaldish.com Use your bank's online bill pay function to mail contributions to: 5753 Hwy 85 North, Number 4576, Crestview, FL 32536. Please make checks payable to Congressional Dish Thank you for supporting truly independent media! Background Sources Recommended Congressional Dish Episodes CD236: January 6: The Capitol Riot CD235: The Safe Haven of Sanctions Evaders CD228: The Second Impeachment Trial of Donald Trump CD224: Social Media Censorship Domestic Terrorism Policy and Strategy U.S. Department of Homeland Security. August 13, 2021. “National Terrorism Advisory System Bulletin”. U.S. National Security Council. June 2021. National Strategy for Countering Domestic Terrorism. The White House. U.S. Department of Homeland Security. May 11, 2021. “DHS Creates New Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships and Additional Efforts to Comprehensively Combat Domestic Violent Extremism”. U.S. Department of Homeland Security. September 19, 2019. "Fusion Centers." "John D. Cohen: Coordinator for Counterterrorism and Assistant Secretary for Counterterrorism and Threat Prevention Policy, U.S. Department of Homeland Security." No date. U.S. House of Representatives Document Repository. John Cohen LinkedIn profile U.S. Department of Defense Security Cooperation Agency. No date. "Humanitarian Assistance". Perspectives on the "Domestic War on Terror" Branko Marcetic. July 28, 2021. “The FBI's Domestic 'War on Terror' Is an Authoritarian Power Grab.” Jacobin. Ken Bensinger and Jessica Garrison. July 20, 2021. "Watching the Watchmen." BuzzFeed News. Harsha Panduranga. June 21, 2021. “Why Biden's Strategy for Preventing Domestic Terrorism Could Do More Harm Than Good.” Los Angeles Times. Glenn Greenwald. June 2, 2021. “The New Domestic War on Terror Has Already Begun -- Even Without the New Laws Biden Wants.” Glenn Greenwald Substack. Faiza Patel. February 16, 2021. "We Don't Need More Terrorism Laws After the Capitol Riot. Just Look At Our 9/11 Mistakes." Brennan Center for Justice. January 6 Capitol Riot Aftermath Natalia Gurevich. August 24, 2021. “After Jan. 6 attack, US Capitol Police choose San Francisco for new field office.” KCBS Radio. Barbara Sprunt. July 27, 2021. “Here Are The 9 Lawmakers Investigating The Jan. 6 Capitol Attack.” NPR. Glenn Greenwald. July 8, 2021. "The Capitol Police, Armed With $2 Billion in New Funding, Expanding Operations Outside of D.C." Glenn Greenwald Substack. United States Capitol Police. July 6, 2021. “After the Attack: The Future of the U.S. Capitol Police.” Lexi Lonas. June 30, 2021. "Nearly 70 House lawmakers ask leadership to reimburse National Guard for Jan. 6 response.” The Hill. Jacob Pramuk. May 20, 2021. "House passes $1.9 billion Capitol security bill that faces Senate roadblocks." CNBC. Corporate and Government Partnerships Rachael Levy. August 15, 2021. “Homeland Security Considers Outside Firms to Analyze Social Media After Jan. 6 Failure." Anti-Defamation League. July 26, 2021. “PayPal Partners with ADL to Fight Extremism and Protect Marginalized Communities.” Danny O'Brien and Rainey Reitman. December 14, 2020. “Visa and Mastercard are Trying to Dictate What You Can Watch on Pornhub.” Electronic Frontier Foundation. Gillian Friedman. December 10, 2020. “Mastercard and Visa stop allowing their cards to be used on Pornhub.” New York Times. Shannon Souza. October 12, 2020. “Credit and Debit Card Market Share by Network and Issuer.” The Ascent: A Motley Fool Service. New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. The Christchurch Call. “Anti-Defamation League.” Last edited March 30, 2012. SourceWatch. Valens Global. "Who We Are." Laws H.R. 3237: Emergency Security Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 (Capitol Police Funding) Sponsor: Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) Status: Signed into law, 2021 May 20 House Vote Breakdown Congressional Budget Office Score Law Outline TITLE I: DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE Emergency funding appropriated... $600 million for the National Guard $500 million for the "Overseas Humanitarian, Disaster, and Civic Aid" account TITLE II: DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Emergency funding appropriated... $25 million for Refugee and Entrant Assistance for Afghans TITLE III: LEGISLATIVE BRANCH SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Emergency funding appropriated... $11.6 million for the House of Representatives for coronavirus related expenses. $ 8 million for the Senate Sergeant at Arms for coronavirus related expenses $346 thousand for the families of late members of Congress Ronald Wright and Alcee Hastings. CAPITOL POLICE Emergency funding appropriated... $37.5 million for "Salaries" account for January 6 related expenses $3.6 million is for retention bonuses $6.9 million for hazard pay $1.4 million for a wellness program for the Capitol Police officers $33 million for "General Expenses" account for January 6 related expenses At least $5 million must be spent on "reimbursable agreements with State and local law enforcement agencies" At least $4.8 million for protective details for Congress $2.6 million for physical protection barriers and other civil disturbance unit equipment $2.5 million to the US Marshalls Service for providing counseling to Capitol Police officers. $800,000 for coronavirus expenses $35.4 million for mutual aid and training $9 million for payments to other local law enforcement partners who responded on January 6 Leaves $25 million for Capitol Police training ARCHITECT OF THE CAPITOL Emergency funding appropriated... $22 million for coronavirus expenses CAPITOL POLICE BUILDINGS, GROUNDS AND SECURITY Emergency funding appropriated to the Capitol Police and Architect of the Capitol Police... $300 million to repair January 6th damage $281 million for windows, doors, and enhances physical security $17 million for security cameras GENERAL PROVISIONS Sec. 310: No Permanent Fencing No funds now or in the future can be used to install "permanent, above ground fencing around the perimeter, or any portion thereof, of the United States Capitol Grounds. TITLE IV: BILATERAL ECONOMIC ASSISTANCE DEPARTMENT OF STATE, MIGRATION AND REFUGEE ASSISTANCE Emergency funding appropriated... $100 million for "humanitarian needs in Afghanistan and to assist Afghan refugees" $500 million for the "United States Emergency Refugee and Migration Assistance Fund" GENERAL PROVISIONS Extension and Modification of the Afghan Special Immigrant Visa Program (See episode CD238) TITLE V: DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE STATE AND LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ASSISTANCE Emergency funding appropriated... $1.1 million for reimbursements for protecting Joe Biden between his election and inauguration USA PATRIOT Act Sponsor: James Sensenbrenner Jr. (R-WI) Status: Signed into law, 2001 Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). August 24, 2021. “FinCEN's 314(a) Fact Sheet.” United States Department of the Treasury. FinCEN. December 2020. “314(b) Fact Sheet.” United States Department of the Treasury. United States Department of the Treasury. February 10, 2011. "Fact Sheet: Overview of Section 311 of the USA PATRIOT Act" Douglas N. Greenburg, John Roth, and Katherine A. Sawyer. June 2007. “Special Measures Under Section 311 of the USA PATRIOT Act.” Review of Banking and Financial Services Bills S. 1896: Algorithmic Justice and Online Platform Transparency Act Sponsor: Doris Matsui (D-CA) Status: Introduced, May 28, 2021 S. 937: COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act Sponsor: Mazie Hirono (D-HI) Status: Enacted, March 23, 2021 H.Res. 272: Calling for the designation of Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization Sponsor: Lauren Boebert (R-CO) Status: Introduced to the House, March 26, 2021 S. 963: Domestic Terrorism and Hate Crimes Prevention Act Sponsor: Richard Durbin (D-IL) Status: Sent to the Senate for consideration March 25, 2021 S. 964: Domestic Terrorism Prevention Act of 2021 Sponsor: Richard Durbin (D-IL) Status: Introduced, March 24, 2021 H.R. 657: District of Columbia National Guard Home Rule Act Sponsor: Eleanor Norton (D-DC) Status: Introduced, February 1, 2021 S. 130: District of Columbia National Guard Home Rule Act Sponsor: Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) Status: Introduced January 28, 2021 H.R. 350: Domestic Terrorism Prevention Act of 2021 Sponsor: Brad Schneider (D-IL) Status: Introduced January 19, 2021 H.R. 4192: Confronting the Threat of Domestic Terrorism Act Sponsor: Adam Schiff (D-CA) Status: Died in 116th Congress The Hearings Resources and Authorities Needed to Protect and Secure the Homeland Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs July 27, 2021 Testimony heard from Alejandro N. Mayorkas, Secretary of Homeland Security 37:00 DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas: Domestic terrorism is the most lethal and persistent terrorism related threat to the United States today. That is why we are requesting $131 million to support innovative methods to prevent domestic terrorism, while respecting privacy, civil rights and civil liberties. 2:27:00 Sen. Jon Ossoff (GA): According to DHS, FBI data from 2015 to 2019, 65 Americans were tragically killed in domestic terrorist attacks. And I want to put that in context by referring to CDC homicide data over the same period of 2015 to 2019. 94,636 Americans killed by homicide over that same period. 2:27:15 Sen. Jon Ossoff (GA): What leads you to the conclusion that the level of threat from domestic violent extremists and the level of threat posed by potential domestic terrorists has risen to the extent that it justifies this bureaucratic focus and this budgetary focus you've requested, for example, resources to establish a new dedicated domestic terrorism branch within DHS Office of Intelligence and Analysis. 2:28:00 DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas: What we see is an increasing amount of social media traffic that is based on ideologies of hate, and extremism, false narratives, and an increasing connectivity to violence - intention to commit violent acts. And so that is what causes us to conclude that this is the greatest terrorist related threat that we face in our homeland today. 2:28:15 DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas: What we seek to do is more effectively disseminate what we learn about those trends - mindful of rights of privacy and civil rights and civil liberties - disseminate that information to our state, local, tribal, territorial partners on the one hand, and importantly, to equip local communities, to empower them to address the threat in their own neighborhoods. Terrorism and Digital Financing: How Technology is Changing the Threat House Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on Intelligence and Counterterrorism July 22, 2021 Testimony was heard from the following Department of Homeland Security officials: Stephanie Dobitsch, Deputy Undersecretary, Office of Intelligence and Analysis Previously served as former Vice President Mike Pence's special adviser for the Middle East and North Africa Jeremy Sheridan, Assistant Director, Office of Investigations, U.S. Secret Service; and John Eisert, Assistant Director, Investigative Programs, Homeland Security Investigations, Immigration and Customs Enforcement. 3:15 Rep. Elise Slotkin (MI): Some of the online platforms and online tech allow easy access for thousands, if not millions of users to donate money through online campaigns. For example, crowdfunding through PayPal, GoFundMe, and Amazon have become popular ways in recent years for extremist groups to raise money. To put this in context, according to the Global Project Against Hate and Extremism, from about 2005 to 2015, just about every extremist group they tracked featured a PayPal button on their website. Now, even though PayPal and other payment processing platforms became aware of the issue and began to ban extremists from their flat platforms, which is a great first step, these groups have persevered and maintained a strong online presence. 5:00 Rep. Elise Slotkin (MI): But just as nefarious groups have changed their fundraising tactics after crackdowns by payment processors like PayPal, when law enforcement begins following and cracking down on illicit Bitcoin use, terrorist fundraisers advise supporters to use other cryptocurrencies to avoid detection. This was the case of a pro ISIS website that requested its supporters send money via Monero, another cryptocurrency instead of Bitcoin because of its privacy and safety features. 6:00 Rep. Elise Slotkin (MI): But we know we have an uphill battle. Our subcommittee really stands ready to help the department with what you need. If you need changes to legislation, if you need resources, we want to hear more from you, not less. 56:55 Rep. Tom Malinowski (NJ): I hear the phrase that it enables the democratization of currency. And every time someone says we're democratizing something, it kind of ends the conversation. That's sort of good. I don't really understand what that means in this context. I think it's an abstraction, whereas ransomware attacks are not an abstraction. They're hurting people, every single day. So I'm not sure if I see it. And I think we do need to expand this conversation to ask that fundamental question, whether the challenges that you are facing - that we are asking you to deal with - in protecting us against all of these social ills, are challenges that are necessary, inescapable and inevitable. And I think we have to ask, what is the good? What is the positive social value of this phenomenon that is also creating all of this harm? And you know, I think when you look at the history of how we built modern economies in the United States and around the world, we started three or 400 years ago with multiple currencies that were unregulated and not controlled by governments and in every modern economy, we built what we have today when government decided no, we're going to have one currency that is issued and regulated by government. And I think I could ask you - we don't have time - how we can better regulate cryptocurrency, but I think if we regulated it, it wouldn't be crypto anymore. And so what would be the point? So I come back to the question, should this be allowed? Thank you. I yield back. Examining the January 6 Attack on the U.S. Capitol, Part II Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs and Committee on Rules and Administration March 3, 2021 Hearing on C-SPAN Day II, Part I Hearing on C-SPAN Day II, Part II Testimony was heard from: Robert Salesses, Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Assistant Secretary for Homeland Defense and Global Security at the U.S. Department of Defense Major General William Walker, Commanding General of the DC National Guard Jill Sanborn, Assistant Director, Counterterrorism Division Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Department of Justice 06:42 Sen. Gary Peters (MI): But the January 6 attack must mark a turning point. There can be no question that the domestic terrorist threat and concluding violence driven by white supremacy and anti-government groups is the gravest terrorist threat to our homeland security. Moving forward, the FBI, which is tasked with leading our counterterrorism efforts, and the Department of Homeland Security, which ensures that state and local law enforcement understands the threats that American communities face must address this deadly threat with the same focus and resources and analytical rigor that they apply to foreign threats such as ISIS and Al Qaeda. State and Local Responses to Domestic Terrorism: The Attack on the U.S. Capitol and Beyond House Committee on Homeland Security, Subcommittee on Intelligence and Counterterrorism March 24, 2021 Testimony was heard from: Dana Nessel, Attorney General, Michigan Aaron Ford, Attorney General, Nevada John Chisholm, District Attorney, Milwaukee County, Wisconsin 07:19 Rep. Elissa Slotkin (MI): The post 9/11 era of security where the threats come from abroad is over. In the 20 years of the post 9/11 era, they came to an end on January 6th, the new reality is that we have to come to terms with is that it's our extremists here at home, seeking to explain internal divisions that pose the greatest threat. Dollars Against Democracy: Domestic Terrorist Financing in the Aftermath of Insurrection House Committee on Financial Services, Subcommittee on National Security, International Development, and Monetary Policy February 25, 2021 Testimony was heard from: Iman Boukadoum, Senior Manager, Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights Lecia Brooks, Executive Director, Southern Poverty Law Center Daniel Glaser Global Head Jurisdictional Services and Head of Washington, DC Office at K2 Integrity Senior Advisor at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies Board member at the Qatar Financial Centre Regulatory Authority Former Assistant Secretary for Terrorist Financing and Financial Crimes, U.S. Department of the Treasury Daniel Rogers Co-Founder and Chief Technical Officer at Global Disinformation Index Daveed Gertenstein-Ross, CEO of Valens Global 03:28 Rep. Jim Himes (CT): In the wake of the attacks of September 11th, we recast the entire federal government and worked feverishly to defund terrorist streams. To effectively disrupt domestic extremist groups, we need to better understand their financing. 23:11 Daniel Glaser: Thank you for the opportunity to appear before you today to talk about how the US government can employ similar tools and strategies against white nationalists and other domestic terrorist groups as it has employed against global jihadist groups over the past two decades. 27:42 Daniel Glaser: Potential measures in Treasury's toolbox include the issuance of guidance to financial institutions on financial type policies, methodologies and red flags, the establishment of public private partnerships, the use of information sharing authorities, and the use of geographic targeting orders. Taken together these measures will strengthen the ability of financial institutions to identify, report and impede the financial activity of domestic extremist groups and will ensure that the US financial system is a hostile environment for these groups. 30:10 Daniel Rogers: These groups leverage the Internet as a primary means of disseminating their toxic ideologies and soliciting funds. One only needs to search Amazon or Etsy for the term q anon to uncover shirts, hats, mugs, books and other paraphernalia that both monetize and further popularize the domestic violent extremist threat. Images from that fateful day last month are rife with sweatshirts that say, Camp Auschwitz that until recently were for sale on websites like Teespring and cafe press. As we speak at least 24 individuals indicted for their role in the January 6 insurrection, including eight members of the proud boys have used crowdfunding site gifts and go to raise nearly a quarter million dollars in donations. And it's not just about the money. This merchandise acts as a sort of team jersey that helps these groups recruit new members and foment further hatred towards their targets. We analyze the digital footprints of 73 groups across 60 websites, and 225 social media accounts and their use of 54 different online fundraising mechanisms, including 47 payment platforms and five different cryptocurrencies, ultimately finding 191 instances of hate groups using online fundraising services to support their activities. The funding mechanisms included both primary platforms like Amazon, intermediary platforms, such as Stripe or Shopify crowdfunding sites like GoFundMe, payments facilitators like PayPal, monetized content streaming services, such as YouTube, super chats, and cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin. All of these payment mechanisms were linked to websites or social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, telegram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, gab, picshoot and others. The sheer number of companies I just mentioned, is the first clue to the scale and the scope of the problem. 43:25 Rep. Jim Himes (CT): Mr. Glaser, you you, though suggested something new that I'd like to give you a maybe 30 seconds, 42 seconds I have left to elaborate on you said you were taught you were hopeful for sanctions like authorities against domestic actors. You did nod to constitutional civil liberties concerns. But give us another 30 seconds on exactly what you mean. And perhaps most importantly, what sort of fourth amendment overlay should accompany such authority? 43:52 Daniel Glaser: Well, thank you, thank you for the question. The fact is, the Treasury Department really does not have a lot of authority to go after purely domestic groups in the way that it goes after global terrorist organizations that simply doesn't have that authority. You could imagine an authority that does allow for the designation of domestic organizations, it would have to take into account that, the constitutional restrictions. When you look when you read the a lot of the court decisions, there's concerns could be addressed in the statute, there's concerns. A lot of the scrutiny is heightened because sanctions are usually accompanied with acid freezes. But you could imagine sanctions that don't involve asset freezes that involve transaction bounds that involve regulatory type of requirements that you see in Section 311 of the Patriot Act. So there's a variety of ways that both the due process standards could be raised from what we see in the global context. 48:21 Rep. French Hill (AZ): On 314 in the Patriot Act, is that a place where we could, in a protected appropriate way make a change that relates to this domestic issue? Or is that, in your view, too challenging? Daveed Gertenstein-Ross: No, I think it's a place where you could definitely make a change. The 314-A process allows an investigator to canvass financial institutions for potential lead information that might otherwise never be uncovered. It's designed to allow disparate pieces of information to be identified, centralized and evaluated. So when law enforcement submits a request to FinCEN, to get information from financial institutions, it has to submit a written certification that each individual or entity about which the information is sought is engaged in or reasonably suspected of engaging in terrorist activity or money laundering. I think that in some cases 314-A, may already be usable, but I think it's worth looking at the 314-A process to see if in this particular context, when you're looking at domestic violent extremism, as opposed to foreign terrorist organizations, there are some tweaks that would provide ability to get leads in this manner. 1:15:04 Iman Boukadoum: What we submit is that the material support for terrorism statute, as we know, there are two of them. There's one with an international Nexus that is required. And there's one that allows for investigating material support for terrorism, domestic terrorism, in particular, as defined in the patriot act with underlying statutes that allows for any crimes that take place within the United States that have no international nexus. And we believe that that second piece of material support for terrorism statute has been neglected and can be nicely used with the domestic terrorism definition as laid out in the Patriot Act. And we hope that statutory framework will be used to actually go after violent white nationalists and others. The Capitol Insurrection: Unexplained Delays and Unanswered Questions (Part II) House Committee on Oversight and Reform June 15, 2021 Testimony was heard from: General Charles E. Flynn, Commanding General, U.S. Army Pacific Lieutenant General Walter E. Piatt, Director of the Army Staff, U.S. Army Christopher Wray, Director, Federal Bureau of Investigation 2:51:19 Chris Wray: Among the things that we've taken away from this experience are a few. One, as you heard me say in response to an earlier question, we need to develop better human sources, right, because if we can get better human sources, then we can better separate the wheat from the chaff in social media. Two, we need better data analytics. The volume, as you said, the volume of this stuff is, is just massive, and the ability to have the right tools to get through it and sift through it in a way that is, again, separating the wheat from the chaff is key. And then the third point that I would make is we are rapidly having to contend with the issue of encryption. So what I mean by that is, yes, there might be chatter on social media. But then what we have found and this is true in relation to January 6th, in spades, but it was also true over the summer in some of the violence that occurred there. Individuals will switch over to encrypted platforms for the really significant, really revealing communications. And so we've got to figure out a way to get into those communications or we're going to be constantly playing catch up in our effort to separate as I said, the wheat from the chaff on social media. 3:16:54 Chris Wray: As for social media, I think there's, there's it's understandable that there's a lot of confusion on this subject we do not we have very specific policies that Ben at the Department for a long time that govern our ability to use social media and when we have an authorized purpose and proper predication, there's a lot of things we can do on social media. And we do do and we aggressively do but what we can't do, what we can't do on social media is without proper predication, and an authorized purpose, just monitor, just in case on social media. Now, if the policies should be changed to reflect that, that might be one of the important lessons learned coming out of this whole experience. But that's not something that that currently the FBI has the either the authority or certainly the resources frankly, to do. Cover Art Design by Only Child Imaginations Music Presented in This Episode Intro & Exit: Tired of Being Lied To by David Ippolito (found on Music Alley by mevio)

Ha llegado uno de los episodios más esperados del Podcast. Las variantes de Sars Cov 2 es el tema principal y de moda, porque las vacunas muestran diferencias en su eficacia a la hora de protegernos contra ellas. Cunde el pánico por la variante Delta, altamente contagiosa. ¿Estamos al borde del desastre? ¿Qué lugar ocupa cada vacuna contra cada variante? ¿Qué tan peligroso es que el virus mute? ¿Estas mutaciones son el aviso de algo peor por venir? ¿No puedes dormir porque no sabes si la vacuna que te aplicaron te protege contra las variantes? ¿Qué ha pasado con las vacunas? ¡Vamos a poner orden! NOTA AGREGADA: Al momento de publicar este episodio la vacuna Sputnik-V ha publicado un artículo donde muestra que tiene una eficacia de más de 90 % contra la variante Delta, sin embargo dicho estudio aún no tiene revisión por pares y no está oficialmente publicado (es un preprint). Esta información preliminar, muy seguramente se confirmará en las siguientes semanas, pero por el momento, no es oficial. Music by: www.audionautix.com     Track: Acoustic Rock. REFERENCIAS: 1- Harvey, W.T., Carabelli, A.M., Jackson, B. et al. SARS-CoV-2 variants, spike mutations and immune escape. Nat Rev Microbiol 19, 409–424 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41579-021-00573-0  https://www.nature.com/articles/s41579-021-00573-0. 2-The effects of virus variants on COVID19 vaccines, WHO. https://www.who.int/news-room/feature-stories/detail/the-effects-of-virus-variants-on-covid-19-vaccines?gclid=CjwKCAjwruSHBhAtEiwA_qCppjKGFX1M1Eauc6XCEEy9Osvl3u8YZ9vMofon0KmD3ffH1q07dMKwxxoCMB4QAvD_BwE. 3-SARS-CoV-2 Variant Classifications and Definitions, CDC 2021. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/variants/variant-info.html 4-Janik, E.; Niemcewicz, M.; Podogrocki, M.; Majsterek, I.; Bijak, M. The Emerging Concern and Interest SARS-CoV-2 Variants. Pathogens 2021, 10, 633. https:// doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10060633. 5-Chase Harrison: COVID19 variants in Latinoamérica, 2021. https://www.as-coa.org/articles/explainer-covid-variants-latin-america 6-Nueva clasificación de riesgo de las variantes del SARS-CoV-2. Academia Nacional de Medicina de Venezuela 2021. https://academianacionaldemedicina.org/publicaciones/covid-19/cv-nueva-clasificacion-de-riesgo-de-las-variantes-del-sars-cov-2/ 7-Vaccines highly effective against hospitalisation from Delta variant, press release. Public Health England, 2021. https://www.gov.uk/government/news/vaccines-highly-effective-against-hospitalisation-from-delta-variant#:~:text=the%20Pfizer%2DBioNTech%20vaccine%20is,against%20hospitalisation%20after%202%20doses 8-Carolyn Crist: Delta Variant May Cause 'Dense Outbreaks' in Parts of U.S. 2021. https://www.webmd.com/lung/news/20210628/dense-outbreaks-delta-variant-parts-us 9-COVID19 Variants Update, New Zealand Ministry of Health, Science & Teorical Advisory, 2021.

本集學習內容: NZ bans Taiwan mangoes The Council of Agriculture (COA) has asked New Zealand to lift its import ban on Taiwanese mangoes, an official said yesterday. The New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries stopped a shipment of Taiwanese mangoes and lychees at its border on Friday last week due to a problem with live fruit fly larvae, Radio New Zealand reported. COA official Tsou Hui-chuan (鄒慧娟) said the larvae were only found on the lychees, even though the mangoes were part of the same shipment. The mangoes passed quarantine inspection, but Taiwan still received a notice yesterday that a ban on mangoes had been imposed, Tsou said. The COA sent correspondence to the New Zealand Commerce and Industry Office in Taipei to ask that the ban on mangoes be lifted, Tsou said. 資料來源: https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2021/06/23/2003759666 ------------------------------------------ 喜歡我的節目嗎？可以從這裡請我喝杯飲料喔！ https://pay.firstory.me/user/englishcoffeeshop 歡迎留言分享和評分

The New South Wales health authority has advised that at least one person who later tested positive for Covid-19 travelled to Wellington from Sydney last weekend. Passengers on two flights between Sydney and Wellington have been identified as close contacts. The flights were Qantas QF-163, which left Sydney on Friday the 18th June and landed in Wellington just after midnight on Saturday 19 June, and Air New Zealand NZ-247, which left Wellington on the morning of Monday 21 June. The New South Wales health authority is urging anyone who was on those flights to get a Covid-19 test, and to self-isolate for 14 days regardless of the result. The New Zealand Ministry of Health have confirmed that any passengers on these flights must isolate immediately and call healthline for more information.

At least one person who later tested positive for Covid-19 travelled to Wellington from Sydney last weekend. Late last night New South Wales Health issued an alert identifying passengers on two flights between Sydney and Wellington as close contacts of at least one case of Covid-19. The flights were Qantas QF-163, which left Sydney on Friday 18 June and landed in Wellington just after midnight on Saturday 19 June and Air New Zealand NZ-247, which left Wellington on the morning of Monday 21 June. The New Zealand Ministry of Health has confirmed that any passengers on these flights must isolate immediately and call healthline for more information.  Travel between New South Wales and New Zealand has been paused.

The New South Wales health authority has advised that at least one person who later tested positive for Covid-19 travelled to Wellington from Sydney last weekend. Passengers on two flights between Sydney and Wellington have been identified as close contacts. The flights were Qantas QF-163, which left Sydney on Friday the 18th June and landed in Wellington just after midnight on Saturday 19 June, and Air New Zealand NZ-247, which left Wellington on the morning of Monday 21 June. The New South Wales health authority is urging anyone who was on those flights to get a Covid-19 test, and to self-isolate for 14 days regardless of the result. The New Zealand Ministry of Health have confirmed that any passengers on these flights must isolate immediately and call healthline for more information.

At least one person who later tested positive for Covid-19 travelled to Wellington from Sydney last weekend. Late last night New South Wales Health issued an alert identifying passengers on two flights between Sydney and Wellington as close contacts of at least one case of Covid-19. The flights were Qantas QF-163, which left Sydney on Friday 18 June and landed in Wellington just after midnight on Saturday 19 June and Air New Zealand NZ-247, which left Wellington on the morning of Monday 21 June. The New Zealand Ministry of Health has confirmed that any passengers on these flights must isolate immediately and call healthline for more information.  Travel between New South Wales and New Zealand has been paused.

Epidemiologist and former New Zealand Ministry of Health chief science advisor John Potter discusses the vaccine passport debate and the prospect for global COVID elimination.

Dr David Murdoch, Infectious Diseases Expert, Dean of Atago University and Member of the Technical Advisory Panel for Covid 19, which advises the New Zealand Ministry of Health.

Peter Crabtree is the General Manager Science, Innovation, and International at the New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment. He is responsible for enterprise policy, science and innovation policy, international science partnerships, trade and regulatory cooperation, and international strategy. He also heads the New Zealand Space Agency. Prior to this role, Crabtree was Deputy Chief Executive, System Strategy and Policy at the Ministry of Science and Innovation. He has held other senior roles government roles as well.

Edward Marshall, Global Head of Dentons' Family Office sector, is joined by Henry Brandts-Giesen, partner and leader of the Trusts, Estates and Wealth Preservation team in the Dentons Auckland office, and Melinda Lehman, Investment Market Manager North America for Immigration New Zealand of the New Zealand Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment. They discuss global mobility trends of wealthy families, the residency by investment program in New Zealand, and New Zealand's nascent family office sector. They also cover New Zealand as a global financial jurisdiction and home base for entrepreneurs.

Aimee Whitcroft is a content design, service design and training consultant to New Zealand's local and national governments. She is one of New Zealand's top plain English experts and advocates for open source, open data and open government. Aimee's work also spans diverse and vital topics such as civic technology, service design, placemaking, social good and sustainability and strategy. Aimee has also contributed to futurecasting work at the New Zealand Ministry of Transport. References Open Source to Dominate Intelligence https://www.afcea.org/content/open-source-dominate-intelligence Open data and APIs — fuelling innovation https://medium.com/proceeding-by-inquiry/open-data-and-apis-fuelling-innovation-52962468da7b Third Wave of Open Data https://opendatapolicylab.org/third-wave-of-open-data/ Smarter, kinder cities: data and the new age https://medium.com/proceeding-by-inquiry/smarter-kinder-cities-data-and-the-new-age-586df505443c Disclaimer The opinions expressed by the host and guests on the Unusually Well Informed podcast are their own and do not reflect their employer or any other affiliation. Host and Producer: Tim Hampton https://www.linkedin.com/in/thetimhampton/ https://designthinkingtoronto.com Guest: Aimee Whitcroft https://www.linkedin.com/in/awhitcroft/ Virtual voice over https://www.nuance.com/ Music Consequences by Nihilore https://youtu.be/BaWaucm-ewc --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unusuallywellinformed/message

Australian prime minister Scott Morrison has called on New Zealand to open up to Australians in the same way the nation has for Kiwis, as he reinstated the one-way travel bubble.Currently, New Zealanders are able to enter Australia without needing to do any time in hotel quarantine, but the same cannot be said for Aussies looking to travel over the ditch.Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, the PM said the decision had always been down to Wellington, insisting he was "happy" for New Zealand to open its borders whenever it saw fit."If the New Zealand government doesn't wish Australians to visit New Zealand and spend money in Queenstown or Wellington or other parts of the country, that's a matter for them," he told reporters on Wednesday."But if Australians can't go to Queenstown, I'm hoping they'll go to Cairns."The travel bubble was reinstated on Tuesday night, after Auckland was lowered to Alert Level to 2 following a local outbreak.More than 1.7 million Kiwis emerged from a strict week-long lockdown on Sunday as health authorities rushed to contain the 'Valentines Day' cluster that broke out at Papatoetoe high school.Based on updated advice received on Tuesday from New Zealand, Australia moved to resume "green flights" from 11.59pm on March 11.Australia's chief medical officer Paul Kelly has been monitoring the situation and said it had "improved greatly", with "minimal risk" remaining from the Auckland cluster.A statement from the Department of Health and Professor Kelly outlined that states or territories were welcome to introduce their own conditions that might differ to the national advice."All travellers are advised to check the arrangements in both their place of arrival and place of final destination before they travel," Professor Kelly said in the statement.Australian health authorities applauded New Zealand's contact tracing efforts."New Zealand's contact tracing efforts showed the recent case identified, unrelated to the Auckland cluster, posed a low risk of COVID-19 spreading in Australia," Professor Kelly said."The Australian government will continue to work closely with colleagues in the New Zealand Ministry of Health to monitor and assess the public health risk posed by COVID-19."

An outbreak aboard a September flight from Dubai to New Zealand offers researchers, and airlines, an opportunity to study in-transit contagion. In an effort to reassure, the airlines have updated and adjusted their requirements for travelers, with patchwork results. Some airlines work to maintain social distance, both at the gate and at boarding; others are less vigilant. Mask-wearing is dependent on passenger compliance, and not predictable; nor, increasingly, is flight capacity, which can range from 20 percent to nearly full. Given the variables, infectious disease specialists have had a hard time determining the risks of flying. But a study published on Wednesday provides some clarity. After an 18-hour flight from Dubai landed in Auckland, New Zealand, in September, local health authorities discovered evidence of an outbreak that most likely occurred during the trip. Using seat maps and genetic analysis, the new study determined that one passenger initiated a chain of infection that spread to four others en route. Previous research on apparent in-flight outbreaks focused on flights that occurred last spring, when few travelers wore masks, planes were running near capacity and the value of preventive measures was not broadly understood. The new report, of a largely empty flight in the fall, details what can happen even when airlines and passengers are aware and more cautious about the risks. The findings deliver a clear warning to both airlines and passengers, experts said. “The key message here is that you have to have multiple layers of prevention — requiring testing before boarding, social distancing on the flight, and masks,” said Dr. Abraar Karan, an internal medicine physician at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School who was not part of the study team. “Those things all went wrong in different ways on this flight, and if they’d just tested properly, this wouldn’t have happened.” The new infections were detected after the plane landed in New Zealand; the country requires incoming travelers to quarantine for 14 days before entering the community. The analysis, led by researchers at the New Zealand Ministry of Health, found that seven of the 86 passengers on board tested positive during their quarantine and that at least four were newly infected on the flight. The aircraft, a Boeing 777-300ER, with a capacity of nearly 400 passengers, was only one-quarter full. These seven passengers came from five countries, and they were seated within four rows of one another for the 18-hour duration of the flight. Two acknowledged that they did not wear masks, and the airline did not require mask-wearing in the lobby before boarding. Nor did it require preflight testing, although five of the seven passengers who later tested positive had taken a test, and received a negative result, in the days before boarding. The versions of the coronavirus that all seven carried were virtually identical genetically — strongly suggesting that one person among them initiated the outbreak. That person, whom the report calls Passenger A, had in fact tested negative four or five days before boarding, the researchers found. “Four or five days is a long time,” Dr. Karan said. “You should be asking for results of rapid tests done hours before the flight, ideally.” Even restrictive “Covid-free” flights, international bookings that require a negative result to board, give people a day or two before departure to get a test. The findings are not definitive, cautioned the authors, led by Dr. Tara Swadi, an adviser with New Zealand’s Health Ministry. But results “underscore the value of considering all international passengers arriving in New Zealand as being potentially infected, even if pre-departure testing was undertaken, social distancing and spacing were followed, and personal protective equipment was used in-flight,” the researchers concluded. Previous studies of infection risk during air travel did not clearly quantify the risk, and onboard air filtration systems are thought to reduce the infection risk among passengers even when a flight includes one or more infected people. But at least two recent reports strongly suggest that in-flight outbreaks are a risk: one of a flight from Boston to Hong Kong in March; the other of a flight from London to Hanoi, Vietnam, also in March. On the Hong Kong flight, the analysis suggested that two passengers who boarded in Boston infected two flight attendants. On the Hanoi flight, researchers found that 12 of 16 people who later tested positive were sitting in business class, and that proximity to the infectious person strongly predicted infection risk. Airline policies vary widely, depending on the flight and the carrier. During the first months of the pandemic, most U.S. airlines had a policy of blocking off seats, or allowing passengers to reschedule if a flight was near 70 percent full. But by the holidays those policies were largely phased out, said Scott Mayerowitz, executive editor at The Points Guy, a website that covers the industry. All carriers have a mask policy, for passengers and crew — although passengers are not always compliant. “Even before the pandemic, passengers weren’t always the best at following rules on airplanes,” Mr. Mayerowitz said. “Something about air travel brings out the worse in people, whether it’s fighting over reclined seats, or overhead bin space, or wearing a mask properly.” Temperature checks are uncommon and are less than reliable as an indicator of infectiousness. And coronavirus tests are not needed for boarding, at least on domestic flights. Some international flights are “Covid tested”: to fly from New York to Rome on Alitalia, for example, passengers must have received a negative test result within 48 hours of boarding. They are tested again on arrival in Rome. Dr. Karan said that, unless all preventive measures are in place, there will be some risk of infection on almost any flight. “It is surprising and not surprising, on an 18-hour flight, that an outbreak would occur,” Dr. Karan said. “It’s more than likely that more than just those two people took off their mask at some point,” and every such lapse increases the likelihood of spread.

In today's episode we discuss: —Epidemiology: Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in over 6000 healthcare workers show increased occupational risk. Physicians and laboratory scientists from Spain conducted a cross-sectional study of 6,038 healthcare workers (HCW) across 4 regions in Spain to assess the seroprevalence of IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. They found 11% of HCW (n=662) had IgG against SARS-CoV-2, with those with high (OR: 2.06; 95%CI: 1.63-2.62) and moderate (OR: 1.77; 95%CI: 1.32-2.37) risk exposures more likely to have antibodies. Because this rate of seropositivity is slightly higher than in the general Spanish population, authors suggest their data confirm the occupational risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection among HCW with working in a clinical environment. —Adjusting Practice During COVID-19: There was an effect of the COVID-19 pandemic process on STEMI patients' timeline? An interdisciplinary group of cardiology researchers from hospitals in Samsun and Sivas, Turkey, performed a combined observational analysis as well as chart review to assess the effects that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on the management of ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients. They concluded that there was a delayed time to first medical contact (61 minutes in non-pandemic times versus 190 minutes during the pandemic), as well as a delayed time for patients to leave their house after their onset of symptoms (30 minutes in non-pandemic times versus 165 minutes during the pandemic). While this implies that there may need to be widespread analysis of medical responses to patients experiencing STEMI, the authors do comment on the fact that the COVID-19 burden in areas studied was relatively small when compared to hotspots around the world. Further investigation is required in areas that can represent a patient population more severely burdened by COVID-19, however these results suggest an opportunity for quality improvement changes to more efficiently manage patients with STEMI during the pandemic and improve outcomes. —R&D: Diagnosis & Treatments: Fluvoxamine when compared to placebo can decrease clinical deterioration in outpatients with symptomatic COVID-19. A double-blind randomized clinical trial, conducted by physicians from Washington University in St. Louis, analyzed the efficacy of fluvoxamine (100 mg 3 times daily for 15 days) against a placebo to decrease clinical deterioration of COVID-19 in non-hospitalized patients with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection within 7 days and oxygen saturation 92% or greater. Clinical deterioration (defined as development of both 1) shortness of breath or hospitalization for shortness of breath or pneumonia and 2) oxygen saturation less than 92% on room air or need for supplemental oxygen to achieve oxygen saturation of 92% or greater) occurred in 0 of 80 patients in the fluvoxamine group and in 6 of 72 patients in the placebo group without a significant increase in adverse events. —Transmission & Prevention: Genomic evidence of points to in-flight transmission of SARS-CoV-2 despite predeparture testing. A study by the New Zealand Ministry of Health looking at the points of infection and transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in 86 people returning to New Zealand through an international flight from Dubai, UAE. Passengers were placed in managed isolation and quarantine and tested for SARS-CoV-2 on their third and twelfth day after their return; 7 passengers subsequently tested positive for COVID-19. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/covid19lst/support

Chai Chuah, until February 2018, was the Director-General of Health and Chief Executive of the New Zealand Ministry of Health. He is a Chartered Accountant, born in Malaysia, educated in Malaysia and New Zealand, and now resides in New Zealand. He has nearly 30 years of operational, strategic, and policy experience in healthcare services and systems. He is the first and only Asian to have held a Chief Executive position in the New Zealand public service. He currently speaks, writes, and provides advice on "Future of Health Systems, Developing Leaders We Need and Better Care for Our Seniors."Chai's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chai-%E3%80%82%E4%BB%81%E6%9D%90-chuah-%E8%94%A1-4801855a/

Today's discussion is with Dr Reuben Steff.  Reuben is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Waikato in Hamilton, New Zealand. He teaches courses on New Zealand foreign policy, international relations and global security. Reuben has worked for the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade in the International Security and Disarmament Division, and the Strategic Policy Division. We talk about his soon to be released book: US Foreign Policy in the Age of Trump: Drivers, Strategy and Tactics (Routledge, 2020). It's a good read where Reuben attempts to objectively look at Trump's foreign policy approach, to find patterns of behaviour and to look beyond the bluster. It's not intended as a justification of the administration's approach and choices. Rather his purpose in writing the book is to enable better debate of it.  It's an interesting discussion, with references to Nixon and Kissenger's Madman theory in foreign affairs - characterised by irrationality, volatility and unpredictability.  We talk a lot about whether there is strength or advantage to be gained from unpredictability.  President Trump has previously said that the U.S. had become too predictable. Of course, we also consider what this uncertain context means for small states like New Zealand.  Host biography:Jordan Small: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordancsmall/jsmall@nzuscouncil.orgGuest biography:Dr Reuben Steff: https://www.waikato.ac.nz/fass/about/staff/rsteffFor comments and feedback:Email: thefridaydownload@nzuscouncil.orgFacebook: facebook.com/nzuscouncilTwitter: twitter.com/nzuscouncilWebsite: nzuscouncil.orgCredits – opening and closing music:Happy Boy Theme Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

Earlier this year we extended our BLP services to the Cook Islands to support the growth of SMEs across the islands.In this podcast, we are joined by Evelene Hayden, Vice President of Engagement for the Cook Islands Chamber of Commerce.Evelene talks to us about the current business environment in the Cook Islands, and the role of the chamber in supporting SMEs.Credits:Hosted by: Barbara Wilkinson, BLP Professional Development AdvisorRecorded, mixed & edited by The SudioMusic credit: Alex Khaskin via SoundVaultBusiness Link Pacific is a private-sector programme supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade and DT Global. The core team is based in Auckland, New Zealand and supported by in-country partners in Fiji, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and the Cook Islands. For more information visit the Business Link Pacific Portal: https://businesslinkpacific.com

Epidemiologist and former chief science advisor to New Zealand Ministry of Health John Potter discusses the country's extraordinary example of public health leadership and how it can be applied to eliminate COVID globally. 

The Vanuatu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) are Business Link Pacific’s in-country partner in Vanuatu, assisting us in delivering the BLP programme and services to the small-medium sized enterprise sector.Vanuatu was the first country in the Pacific Islands where the BLP programme was launched back in 2017, in partnership with the VCCI. In this podcast we are joined by Astrid Boulekone, General Manager of the VCCI who shares the positive impact of BLP in Vanuatu over the last 3 years and the importance of business advice for SMEs in the Pacific Islands, especially in terms of business resilience and business continuity planning. Host: Emma Crawford-FalekaonoEmma has over 15 years’ experience in chartered accountancy and commercial environments globally. She started her career in accounting before taking time out to deploy as a Military Police Officer to Southern Afghanistan. In 2014, she made the move into the tech industry and was a Business Consultant for Business Link Pacific, delivering professional development and skills training courses to growing businesses in the Pacific region. Credits:Recorded, mixed & edited by Dave Rhodes of Dave Rhodes Productions.Music credit: Alex KhaskinBusiness Link Pacific is a private sector programme supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade and DT Global. The core team is based in Auckland, New Zealand and supported by in-country partners in Fiji, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Cook Islands. For more information visit the Business Link Pacific Portal: https://businesslinkpacific.com

All businesses should pay special attention to obtaining, improving and retaining the knowledge and resources needed to operate efficiently. However, small to medium sized businesses in particular have to be creative in the way they do this, often because of limited time and resources. In this podcast we talk to Anthony Sarathkumar, General Manager at Spectrum Consultancy Services based in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. Anthony details how Spectrum is helping to build the capacity of SMEs in Papua New Guinea through the provision of best practice business advice, in the areas of financial management, business planning and training. Spectrum Consultancy Services is a BLP quality approved business advisor in our network.Host: Emma Crawford-FalekaonoEmma has over 15 years’ experience in chartered accountancy and commercial environments globally. She started her career in accounting before taking time out to deploy as a Military Police Officer to Southern Afghanistan. In 2014, she made the move into the tech industry and was a Business Consultant for Business Link Pacific, delivering professional development and skills training courses to growing businesses in the Pacific region. Credits:Recorded, mixed & edited by Dave Rhodes of Dave Rhodes Productions.Music credit: Alex KhaskinBusiness Link Pacific is a private sector programme supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade and DT Global. The core team is based in Auckland, New Zealand and supported by in-country partners in Fiji, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Cook Islands. For more information visit the Business Link Pacific Portal: https://businesslinkpacific.com

I.Naiveli & Co Chartered Accountants and Business Consultants are the first indigenous-Fijian (i-taukei) owned firm to be issued a Certificate of Public Practice from the Fiji Institute of Accountants, operating in Suva since 1992. In this Podcast we are joined by Benericco Naiveli, Assistant Manager at I.Naiveli & Co to explore the challenges facing indigenous businesses in Fiji, and how I.Naiveli & Co are providing business advisory services to rural-based SMEs. Benerrico also shares ways SMEs can use new technologies to improve financial operations. I.Naiveli & Co are BLP quality approved business advisors in our network. Host: Emma Crawford-FalekaonoEmma has over 15 years’ experience in chartered accountancy and commercial environments globally. She started her career in accounting before taking time out to deploy as a Military Police Officer to Southern Afghanistan. In 2014, she made the move into the tech industry and was a Business Consultant for Business Link Pacific, delivering professional development and skills training courses to growing businesses in the Pacific region. Credits:Recorded, mixed & edited by Dave Rhodes of Dave Rhodes Productions.Music credit: Alex KhaskinBusiness Link Pacific is a private sector programme supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade and DT Global. The core team is based in Auckland, New Zealand and supported by in-country partners in Fiji, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Cook Islands. For more information visit the Business Link Pacific Portal: https://businesslinkpacific.com

Efficient payroll systems are a basic requirement for all businesses, but finding suitable payroll software that is both efficient and compliant can be hard, especially for small-medium sized businesses in the Pacific Islands. In this Podcast, Emma talks to Matt Gardner, Director and Founder of SmoothPay payroll based in New Zealand. Matt explains why SMEs should invest in compliant payroll systems and why SmoothPay goPayroll is the right choice for growing businesses in the Pacific Islands. SmoothPay is a Business Link Pacific commercial partner. SmoothPay offers a free migration service for new customers in any of the 12 Pacific Island countries they operate in. Host: Emma Crawford-FalekaonoEmma has over 15 years’ experience in chartered accountancy and commercial environments globally. She started her career in accounting before taking time out to deploy as a Military Police Officer to Southern Afghanistan. In 2014, she made the move into the tech industry and is now a Business Consultant for Business Link Pacific, delivering professional development and skills training courses to growing businesses in the Pacific region. Credits:Recorded, mixed & edited by Dave Rhodes of Dave Rhodes Productions.Music credit: Alex KhaskinBusiness Link Pacific is a private sector programme supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade and DT Global. The core team is based in Auckland, New Zealand and supported by in-country partners in Fiji, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Cook Islands. For more information visit the Business Link Pacific Portal: https://businesslinkpacific.com/

Measuring your business’ impact helps you understand, manage and communicate the value that your work creates in a clear and consistent way. It can help you better understand your customers/clients and as a result develop products and services tailored to their needs. In this Podcast we are joined by Matt Lloyd, Chief Executive of Arco Tech, a New Zealand based software development firm. Arco Tech are instrumental in developing the BLP Essential Business Tools; the Diagnostic Tool, the Business Health Check and the Business Continuity Planner. Matt and his team also assist BLP to measure the impact of our programme in the Pacific Islands, which provides avenues for us to improve and tailor our services. In this Podcast Matt will discuss the role of science and technology in International Development and the importance of measuring impact.Host: Emma Crawford-FalekaonoEmma has over 15 years’ experience in chartered accountancy and commercial environments globally. She started her career in accounting before taking time out to deploy as a Military Police Officer to Southern Afghanistan. In 2014, she made the move into the tech industry and is now a Business Consultant for Business Link Pacific, delivering professional development and skills training courses to growing businesses in the Pacific region. Credits:Recorded, mixed & edited by Dave Rhodes of Dave Rhodes Productions.Music credit: Alex KhaskinBusiness Link Pacific is a private sector programme supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade and DT Global. The core team is based in Auckland, New Zealand and supported by in-country partners in Fiji, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Cook Islands. For more information visit the Business Link Pacific Portal: https://businesslinkpacific.com/

A financially healthy business is in a better position to grow and expand.With the effects of the COVID-19 still being felt around the world, moving your business from crisis mode to recovery mode can be a difficult transition. This is where a credible financial advisor can really help. Our latest Podcast is designed to help you understand the value of financial business advice and learn more about financial management. To offer advice and tips on this topic, we talked to Hanalei Betham, a Partner at BDO Samoa, who has over 15 years of advisory and assurance experience in Samoa and across the Pacific region. Hanalei discusses the importance of financial business advice and how BDO Samoa are helping SMEs to grow their business. BDO Samoa is a BLP quality approved business advisor, you can connect with them on the BLP Portal. Host: Emma Crawford-FalekaonoEmma has over 15 years’ experience in chartered accountancy and commercial environments globally. She started her career in accounting before taking time out to deploy as a Military Police Officer to Southern Afghanistan. In 2014, she made the move into the tech industry and is now a Business Consultant for Business Link Pacific, delivering professional development and skills training courses to growing businesses in the Pacific region. Credits:Recorded, mixed & edited by Dave Rhodes of Dave Rhodes Productions.Music credit: Alex KhaskinBusiness Link Pacific is a private sector programme supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade and DT Global. The core team is based in Auckland, New Zealand and supported by in-country partners in Fiji, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Cook Islands. For more information visit the Business Link Pacific Portal: https://businesslinkpacific.com/

In the Pacific Islands women are pursuing entrepreneurship more than ever, however, statistics show that gender equality in the startup space is still far from balanced. Women face significant discrimination, compounded by traditional value systems that create barriers to carry out simple things like gain access to startup finance, purchase land and open bank accounts. yher Pacific is an accelerator programme designed by women specifically for Pacific-based female social impact entrepreneurs. In this podcast, we talk to Audrey Jean-Baptiste, Regional Director for yher Pacific, about what yher Pacific does and how the initiative is helping to achieve gender equality in the start-up space. yher Pacific is also a BLP partner and is working with us to connect aspiring female entrepreneurs in the Pacific Islands with BLP’s services. Host: Emma Crawford-FalekaonoEmma has over 15 years’ experience in chartered accountancy and commercial environments globally. She started her career in accounting before taking time out to deploy as a Military Police Officer to Southern Afghanistan. In 2014, she made the move into the tech industry and is now a Business Consultant for Business Link Pacific, delivering professional development and skills training courses to growing businesses in the Pacific region. Credits:Recorded, mixed & edited by Dave Rhodes of Dave Rhodes Productions.Music credit: Alex KhaskinBusiness Link Pacific is a private sector programme supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade and DT Global. The core team is based in Auckland, New Zealand and supported by in-country partners in Fiji, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Cook Islands. For more information visit the Business Link Pacific Portal: https://businesslinkpacific.com/

Mask Effectiveness

Mask Effectiveness

Sam Kiak Tubangliu Certified Practising Accountants (SKT) based in Port Moresby, PNG prides itself on being an equal opportunities employer. 60% of their staff are female, complimented by an all-female management team. In this podcast, Emma interviews Managing Partner, Arthur Sam, and Audit Manager, Vanolla Sarry, about how SKT embraces inclusion in the workplace and what are the specific challenges facing female accountants in PNG. SKT is a national accounting firm founded by Arthur Sam, Jacob Kiak and John Tubangliu, offering accounting, auditing, taxation and business advisory services in Papua New Guinea. They are BLP approved business advisors and can be contacted via the BLP Portal. Host: Emma Crawford-FalekaonoEmma has over 15 years’ experience in chartered accountancy and commercial environments globally. She started her career in accounting before taking time out to deploy as a Military Police Officer to Southern Afghanistan. In 2014, she made the move into the tech industry and is now a Business Consultant for Business Link Pacific, delivering professional development and skills training courses to growing businesses in the Pacific region. Credits:Recorded, mixed & edited by Dave Rhodes of Dave Rhodes Productions.Music credit: Alex KhaskinBusiness Link Pacific is a private sector programme supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade and DT Global. The core team is based in Auckland, New Zealand and supported by in-country partners in Fiji, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Cook Islands. For more information visit the Business Link Pacific Portal: https://businesslinkpacific.com/

So you’ve got insulin resistance. We know that it’s so important to address our insulin resistance, not only for our PCOS symptoms but also for our overall health in general.Because let’s be real, when we’re elderly, we want to be as active and mobile as possible and just drop dead. We don’t want to be decrepit, falling apart and dealing with chronic issues for years and years before we die.So what happens if you just don’t address it? What are the long term complications of leaving it be and just going on something like the Pill? Is it fine or could it have dire consequences on our longevity and long term health?Because insulin and insulin resistance is something I harp on about all the time, I thought it was really important to address this question. I see so many women go on the Pill thinking that it’s the be all and end all (FYI, it’s not). Yes, changing your lifestyle might be difficult - especially at the beginning - but is it really worth leaving your insulin unmanaged now if it’s going to cause so many problems and even reduce your longevity? I talk about how important it is to eat and move to manage your PCOS as well as managing stress, sleep and supplements but for this episode, I really want to hone in on that WHY.So for this episode, I spoke with the wonderful Prof. Grant Schofield of PreKure. Grant is also the Director of The Centre for Human Potential and Professor in Public Health at Auckland University of Technology, was Chief Scientific Advisor to the New Zealand Ministry of Education and an author of four best-selling health books.He's a wealth of knowledge when it comes to preventative medicine and public health and has a particular interest in chronic diseases.All my insulin resistant PCOS ladies, this one's for you - and even if you don't have insulin resistance, it's definitely worth tuning in to. This episode is for you if:Have insulin resistance or pre-type 2 diabetesHave trouble trying to shift weight and it seems to come on out of nowhereYou’re eating ‘healthy’, exercising and following the guidelines but there’s no change in your symptomsSome things we cover in this episode:Long term complications of insulin resistanceManaging your exercise to get the most out of itPreventative medicineWhat glycation is and why it’s important to insulin resistanceWhy the food pyramid doesn’t actually cut it for everyone - especially for women with PCOSInflammationThe catabolic stateClare and Grant talk about their time as athletes and how the practices in those situations can be detrimental to someone with insulin issuesLinks to our programs:The PCOS ProtocolEggducatedReferences and Resources:Grant’s website - ProfGrant.comPreKure - PreKure.com

For accounting firms, the task of delivering quality business development services to their clients is something that often takes a back seat to compliance, or is given on an ad-hoc reactive basis. In this Podcast episode we are joined by Mark Jenkins, co-founder of The Gap - a NZ based firm that bridges the gap between traditional compliance work and business development or business advisory, by providing enduring value to clients through products, services and relationships. The Gap is a valued commercial partner of Business Link Pacific, that we’ve teamed up with so that our business advisors can gain subsidised access to The Gaps comprehensive and proven resources. We are currently offering a limited number of free annual subscriptions to The Gap for approved BLP business advisors. Contact the BLP team for more information as soon as possible - you could access one of the free subscriptions available now. Host: Emma Crawford-FalekaonoEmma has over 15 years’ experience in chartered accountancy and commercial environments globally. She started her career in accounting before taking time out to deploy as a Military Police Officer to Southern Afghanistan. In 2014, she made the move into the tech industry and is now a Business Consultant for Business Link Pacific, delivering professional development and skills training courses to growing businesses in the Pacific region. Credits:Recorded, mixed & edited by Dave Rhodes of Dave Rhodes Productions.Music credit: Alex KhaskinBusiness Link Pacific is a private sector programme supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade and DT Global. The core team is based in Auckland, New Zealand and supported by in-country partners in Fiji, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Cook Islands. For more information visit the Business Link Pacific Portal: https://businesslinkpacific.com/

Achieving a high level of business resilience is something every business should strive for.Business resilience planning is an investment in the future well-being of your company. The ability to be able to work through whatever problems or events your business faces depends on the plans you have put in place. But what if you had no plans and the economic climate changed drastically, as it has with the current COVID-19 pandemic?In this podcast, we delve into the topic of business resilience and identify ways growing businesses in the Pacific Islands can adopt best business practices to ensure the sustainability of their business. To shed light on this topic, our host Emma Crawford-Falekaono spoke with Chris Elphick, Co-Founder of Breadfruit Consulting based in Vanuatu. Breadfruit Consulting is based in Port Vila, Vanuatu, and is a BLP approved Partner and business advisor for growing businesses in the region. Host: Emma Crawford-FalekaonoEmma has over 15 years’ experience in chartered accountancy and commercial environments globally. She started her career in accounting before taking time out to deploy as a Military Police Officer to Southern Afghanistan. In 2014, she made the move into the tech industry and is now a Business Consultant for Business Link Pacific, delivering professional development and skills training courses to growing businesses in the Pacific region. Credits:Recorded, mixed & edited by Dave Rhodes of Dave Rhodes Productions.Music credit: Alex KhaskinBusiness Link Pacific is a private sector programme supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade and DT Global. The core team is based in Auckland, New Zealand and supported by in-country partners in Fiji, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Cooks Islands and Vanuatu.For more information visit the Business Link Pacific Portal.

In this episode we are joined by the Director and Founder of Beach Accounting Advisory Ltd, Akae Beach.Beach Accounting Advisory Ltd is based in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, and is a BLP approved Partner and business advisor for growing businesses in the region. Akae shares her views on the need to invest in people development when operating a business and the specific challenges women face as business owners in PNG. Akae also discusses the ways in which she has adapted her business model to alleviate some of the barriers her female employees encounter on a daily basis in PNG. Learn more about Beach Accounting Advisory Ltd here: https://businesslinkpacific.com/organizations/8Host: Emma Crawford-FalekaonoEmma has over 15 years’ experience in chartered accountancy and commercial environments globally. She started her career in accounting before taking time out to deploy as a Military Police Officer to Southern Afghanistan. In 2014, she made the move into the tech industry and is now a Business Consultant for Business Link Pacific, delivering professional development and skills training courses to growing businesses in the Pacific region. Credits:Recorded, mixed & edited by Dave Rhodes of Dave Rhodes Productions.Music credit: Alex KhaskinBusiness Link Pacific is a private sector programme supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade and DT Global. The core team is based in Auckland, New Zealand and supported by in-country partners in Fiji, Samoa, Papua New Guinea and VanuatuFor more information visit the Business Link Pacific Portal: https://businesslinkpacific.com/

In this episode, we are joined by Hobart Va’ai, CEO of the Samoa Chamber of Commerce & Industry, BLP’s in-country partner in Samoa. Hobart discusses the landscape of the private sector in Samoa, providing examples of the opportunities available and the way forward for growing businesses in Samoa. Learn more about the Samoa Chamber of Commerce & Industry here: http://www.samoachamber.ws/Host: Emma Crawford-FalekaonoEmma has over 15 years’ experience in chartered accountancy and commercial environments globally. She started her career in accounting before taking time out to deploy as a Military Police Officer to Southern Afghanistan. In 2014, she made the move into the tech industry and is now a Business Consultant for Business Link Pacific, delivering professional development and skills training courses to growing businesses in the Pacific region. Credits:Recorded, mixed & edited by Dave Rhodes of Dave Rhodes Productions.Music credit: Alex KhaskinBusiness Link Pacific is a private sector programme supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade and DT Global. The core team is based in Auckland, New Zealand and supported by in-country partners in Fiji, Samoa, Papua New Guinea and VanuatuFor more information visit the Business Link Pacific Portal: https://businesslinkpacific.com/

In this episode, Steve Knapp talks about the Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade (MFAT) funded programme Business Link Pacific (BLP), and the “missing-middle;” those businesses that are too big for microfinance and informal local investors, and too small or too risky for banks or direct investors. Steve explains how BLP supports business' during their growing phase, so they can reach their full potential, and how growing businesses can access these services. Steve Knapp is the Director of Business Link Pacific. Host: Emma Crawford-FalekaonoEmma has over 15 years’ experience in chartered accountancy and commercial environments globally. She started her career in accounting before taking time out to deploy as a Military Police Officer to Southern Afghanistan. In 2014, she made the move into the tech industry and is now a Business Consultant for Business Link Pacific, delivering professional development and skills training courses to growing businesses in the Pacific region. Credits:Recorded, mixed & edited by Dave Rhodes of Dave Rhodes Productions.Music credit: Alex KhaskinBusiness Link Pacific is a private sector programme supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade and DT Global. The core team is based in Auckland, New Zealand and supported by in-country partners in Fiji, Samoa, Papua New Guinea and VanuatuFor more information visit the Business Link Pacific Portal: https://businesslinkpacific.com/

In this episode Emma chats with Steve Reid, Executive Director of Webmedia South Pacific based in Fiji. Steve shares his views on the business environment in Fiji and suggests effective marketing strategies for growing businesses in the Pacific. He also discusses the importance of embracing adaptability for business success. Webmedia is a full service creative agency specialising in advertising, web design, software, programming and public relations. Webmedia South Pacific are Business Link Pacific approved business advisors in our network. Learn more about them here: https://businesslinkpacific.com/organizations/52Host: Emma Crawford-FalekaonoEmma has over 15 years’ experience in chartered accountancy and commercial environments globally. She started her career in accounting before taking time out to deploy as a Military Police Officer to Southern Afghanistan. In 2014, she made the move into the tech industry and is now a Business Consultant for Business Link Pacific, delivering professional development and skills training courses to growing businesses in the Pacific region. Credits:Recorded, mixed & edited by Dave Rhodes of Dave Rhodes Productions.Music credit: Alex KhaskinBusiness Link Pacific is a private sector programme supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade and DT Global. The core team is based in Auckland, New Zealand and supported by in-country partners in Fiji, Samoa, Papua New Guinea and VanuatuFor more information visit the Business Link Pacific Portal: https://businesslinkpacific.com/

In this episode we are joined by Wyndi Tagi and Eli Tagi, founders of WE Accounting. WE Accounting is a growth firm specialising in helping small and medium businesses across NZ and the Pacific. We talk with Wyndi and Eli about pricing strategies, using technology to manage debtor recovery and how to ensure you get paid. They also share their views on the current business environment in Samoa and the importance of creating sustainable cash flow in a growing business.WE Accounting in Samoa are Business Link Pacific approved business advisors in our network. Learn more about them HERE.Host: Emma Crawford-FalekaonoEmma has over 15 years’ experience in chartered accountancy and commercial environments globally. She started her career in accounting before taking time out to deploy as a Military Police Officer to Southern Afghanistan. In 2014, she made the move into the tech industry and is now a Business Consultant for Business Link Pacific, delivering professional development and skills training courses to growing businesses in the Pacific region. Credits:Recorded, mixed & edited by Dave Rhodes of Dave Rhodes Productions.Music credit: Alex KhaskinBusiness Link Pacific is a private sector programme supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade and DT Global. The core team is based in Auckland, New Zealand and supported by in-country partners in Fiji, Samoa, Papua New Guinea and VanuatuFor more information visit the Business Link Pacific Portal: https://businesslinkpacific.com/

In this episode, we talk with Dan Henderson from Enable Business & BHW Accountancy & Advisors in New Zealand, about the importance of investing in human talent, personal resilience and social sustainability in small business. Dan will also share his view of New Zealand's current economic and business environment. Host: Emma Crawford-FalekaonoEmma has over 15 years’ experience in chartered accountancy and commercial environments globally. She started her career in accounting before taking time out to deploy as a Military Police Officer to Southern Afghanistan. In 2014, she made the move into the tech industry and is now a Business Consultant for Business Link Pacific, delivering professional development and skills training courses to growing businesses in the Pacific region. Credits:Recorded, mixed & edited by Dave Rhodes of Dave Rhodes Productions.Music credit: Alex KhaskinBusiness Link Pacific is a private sector programme supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade and DT Global. The core team is based in Auckland, New Zealand and supported by in-country partners in Fiji, Samoa, Papua New Guinea and VanuatuFor more information visit the Business Link Pacific Portal: https://businesslinkpacific.com/

New Zealand's strong commitment to supporting sustainable development in the Pacific was highlighted during a small ceremony this week, which marked the official extension of its partnership with the Pacific Community (SPC). The new five-year partnership between the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) and SPC commits NZ$45 million (NZ$9 million per annum), a significant increase on New Zealand's current funding for the organization.

In this episode, we get invaluable insight into the legal and business environment in Vanuatu from Vicki Joe, Partner at Law Partners. We talk with Vicky about business resilience in the face of extreme weather events and about proactive management for growing businesses. Law Partners in Vanuatu are Business Link Pacific approved business advisors in our network. Learn more about them HERE. Host: Emma Crawford-FalekaonoEmma has over 15 years’ experience in chartered accountancy and commercial environments globally. She started her career in accounting before taking time out to deploy as a Military Police Officer to Southern Afghanistan. In 2014, she made the move into the tech industry and is now a Business Consultant for Business Link Pacific, delivering professional development and skills training courses to growing businesses in the Pacific region. Credits:Recorded, mixed & edited by Dave Rhodes of Dave Rhodes Productions.Music credit: Alex KhaskinBusiness Link Pacific is a private sector programme supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade and DT Global. The core team is based in Auckland, New Zealand and supported by in-country partners in Fiji, Samoa, Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu. For more information visit the Business Link Pacific Portal: https://businesslinkpacific.com/

In this episode, we discuss best business practices for growing enterprises with experienced business advisors Paul Kiruwi and Serah Nigintz from Kuna Taberia Kiruwi (KTK) Accountants and Advisors in Papua New Guinea. Also, we hear from Paul and Serah about Papua New Guinea’s current economy and business opportunities. Kuna Taberia Kiruwi (KTK) Accountants and Advisors are Business Link Pacific approved business advisors in our network. Learn more about them HERE. Host: Emma Crawford-FalekaonoEmma has over 15 years’ experience in chartered accountancy and commercial environments globally. She started her career in accounting before taking time out to deploy as a Military Police Officer to Southern Afghanistan. In 2014, she made the move into the tech industry and is now a Business Consultant for Business Link Pacific, delivering professional development and skills training courses to growing businesses in the Pacific region. Credits: Recorded, mixed & edited by Dave Rhodes of Dave Rhodes Productions.Music credit: Alex KhaskinBusiness Link Pacific is a private sector programme supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade and DT Global. The core team is based in Auckland, New Zealand and supported by in-country partners in Fiji, Samoa, Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu. For more information visit the Business Link Pacific Portal: https://businesslinkpacific.com/

Philippa Kruger, Global Head of Languages, chats to Juliet Kennedy, an experienced language teacher, researcher, and professional expert at Future Learning Solutions. Together they discuss intercultural communicative language teaching and suggest practical ideas on how to implement it in your classroom.Acronyms used in this podcast: TPDL = Teacher Professional Development for LanguagesiCLT = Intercultural Communicative Language TeachingNCEA = National Certificate of Educational Achievement, the main national qualification for secondary school students in New Zealand.TKI = Te Kete Ipurangi. Resource centre provided by the New Zealand Ministry of Education.

Arnold Schwarzenegger: “In our society, the women who break down barriers are those who ignore limits.” Time and time again, Tina Wakefield found herself confronted by self-imposed limits that kept her from living life fully. In spite of suffering from agoraphobia, (an anxiety disorder that causes one to avoid new places or situations) for many years, she began to take baby steps toward building her confidence. Today, she's breaking down walls in people's minds through coaching, mentoring and advocating for justice in New Zealand. Highlights: Stepping onto foreign soil for the first time Following what has heart and meaning How to connect strategically with advocates Connect with Tina Wakefield (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-wakefield-b77a028/) #coaching #inspiration #purpose #timetocomealive #connecttojoy #technology #womenleaders #mentoring Share what you're getting from this session! We look forward to seeing your insights and questions. For past episodes go to https://www.valeriehope.com/podcast.

Arnold Schwarzenegger: “In our society, the women who break down barriers are those who ignore limits.” Time and time again, Tina Wakefield found herself confronted by self-imposed limits that kept her from living life fully. In spite of suffering from agoraphobia, (an anxiety disorder that causes one to avoid new places or situations) for many years, she began to take baby steps toward building her confidence. Today, she’s breaking down walls in people’s minds through coaching, mentoring and advocating for justice in New Zealand. Highlights: Stepping onto foreign soil for the first time Following what has heart and meaning How to connect strategically with advocates Connect with Tina Wakefield (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-wakefield-b77a028/) #coaching #inspiration #purpose #timetocomealive #connecttojoy #technology #womenleaders #mentoring Share what you’re getting from this session! We look forward to seeing your insights and questions. For past episodes go to https://www.valeriehope.com/podcast. Register at https://www.timetocomealive.com to get the login info for our next live session on Tuesday at 8:45 a.m. CST.

At the end of year dinner of the institution of transportation Engineers Australia and New Zealand branch in 2018. Roger Dunne was honoured for his contribution to the transport profession made over many years principally as an associate professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Auckland and as a fellow and life member of the ITE DB: Prior to joining the University of Auckland in 1972 Roger worked for the New Zealand Ministry of Works and development in Palmerston North and Wellington and then Freeman Fox Wilbur Smith and Associates in London and Paris. DB: The link between academia business and government activities is critically important. So we thought we would have a chat to Roger on his reflections from an illustrious career. DB: Sir Roger have you spent your main part of your career in academia. RD: Yes I have and rather surprisingly because I spent about 10 years in the Ministry of Works and in New Zealand and then I went to England for three years I was consulting engineering over there and surprisingly someone offered me a job at the University of Auckland which I originally said no and then eventually accepted. But I've thoroughly enjoyed my stay here. DB: You started in engineering yet I think reading your CV you have seen a lot of broader career areas focused areas come in to the transport field. Would that be a fair reflection. RD: Oh yes yes. RD: I have always been interested in mathematics and the New South Wales master's degree which I did. It took me an interest in that area and then I became interested in planning. RD: Ross Blunden who is professor there and the other staff I said was a great program at New South Wales and really interested me and so I've been very thrilled to be able to be working in the area. DB: Ross Blunden was my professor. Yes. Way back there he was a wonderfully interesting guy. DB: We've now not only taken on the mathematical side of things but also some of the social sciences as well. Oh is that an important expansion. RD: I've always been interested in land use planning you know the arrangement of land use and transport and that was sparked I think by Ross Blunden and others that New South Wales. But I did a postgraduate diploma here which is more or less a master's degree in land use planning and I've got a lot of friends of mine and land use planning and I think that's an area where we're deficient in linking transport with land use. RD: I don't think we we realise the importance of it and the variety that over the last 40 or 50 years but I still don't think we take it into account with our planning and our transport.

The World Bank, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), and Overseas Development Institute (ODI) recently released a report that makes the case for adopting a problem-driven approach to public financial management reform in Pacific Island countries. The report, which includes the results of detailed case studies of reform experience in Kiribati and Tonga, examines how well reform programs have focused on the key challenges that Pacific Island countries face in managing fiscal policy and financing delivery of public services. On October 31, one of the authors of the report, Richard Bontjer from DFAT, presented its key findings, and a panel of experts from the World Bank, DFAT, and the Nossal Institute for Global Health discussed the implications of the report’s recommendations for delivery of health services in the Pacific.

In this podcast Gail Greatorex talks with Martin Rushton, Principal Advisor for Trading Standards and Product Safety in the New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment. Martin talks about key safety principles and gives some real life examples on how safety considerations can impact business.

Have you joined the rubrics revolution?  In this podcast we chat with Jane Davidson of Real Evaluation about the use of rubrics in evaluation.   If this piques your interest, we have a slew of resources for you:slides from the AEA 2013 conference on rubrics:  Jane's Evaluation Rubrics: What, Why, and HowKate McKegg's The Value of Rubrics in Messy Non-Profit Evaluation ContextsBetter Evaluation and Judy Oakden have a new document on rubrics, Evaluation Rubrics: How to Ensure Clear and Transparent Assessment That Respects Diverse Lines of EvidenceYou can find a number of real-life rubrics from the New Zealand Ministry of Education hereJane's blog post on Evaluation specific methodologies: The methodologies that are specific to evaluation one of Kylie's favourite articles is Jane's Unlearning Some of Our Social Scientist HabitsJane also has a great little e-book, Actionable Evaluation Basics:  Getting Succinct Answers to the Most Important Questions, check it out! (Actionable Evaluation is also available in print here.)Finally, if you've used rubrics in evaluation, please leave us a comment below and let us know how it worked for you.Until next time,James and Kylie

Globalization Watch: Stop the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) “Through this agreement, the Obama Administration is seeking to boost U.S. economic growth and support the creation and retention of high-quality American jobs by increasing exports in a region that includes some of the world's most robust economies and that represents more than 40 percent of global trade.”[1] Statement from the Office of the United States Trade Representative “I think we need to look at the Trans-Pacific Partnership as the neo-liberal arm of the US pivot at Asia. So we have all these countries in South East Asia that basically have more incentive to do business with China….Many policy papers state the importance of South-East Asia in …counterbalancing the influence of China in the region. So that is what I perceive the TPP to be.”  Nile Bowie Lost in the wake of headlines about controversies surrounding Canadian Senators' housing and living expenses and allegations of a Toronto big city Mayor ailing from an apparent crack addiction, is the important negotiations on a major trade and investment deal taking place in Lima, Peru this past week. The Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) had its origins in the 2005 Trans-Pacific Strategic Economic Partnership Agreement or the P4 which involved the countries of Brunei, Chile, New Zealand, and Singapore, and was aimed at liberalizing trade in those countries. [2] This deal was expanded in 2008 to include the US in negotiations and by 2009, the TPP began its first round of talks. [3], [4]. There are currently twelve negotiating partners in this comprehensive pact. In addition to the P4, and the US there are Australia, Peru, Vietnam, and Malaysia, with Mexico and Canada having joined the negotiations last October and Japan jumping on board in March. [5], [6] TPP is the latest in a string of numerous free trade agreements that proponents say will generate increased economic activity between and within countries thereby leading to greater prosperity for citizens. [7] Critics of the North American Free Trade Agreement, and its numerous successors argue however that these agreements really are not about trade. They are mechanisms by which corporations with international reach can overcome barriers, regulations, and other restrictions on their profit-making activities. [8] Three critics from three separate countries explain their concerns in this week's instalment of the Global Research News Hour. Stuart Trew, Trade Campaigner for the Ottawa-based Council of Canadians provides his group's analysis not only of the TPP, but also the Canada-EU Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement and the Canada-China Foreign Investment Protection Agreement (FIPA). Kristen Beifus of the Washington Fair Trade Coalition dissects the impacts of free trade on Americans and the concerns specific to the TPP. Kuala Lampur-based Nile Bowie provides his analysis of TPP in terms of its impacts on Malaysia where elections have recently been held. His commentaries on TPP appear on the globalresearch website. References 1. http://www.ustr.gov/about-us/press-office/fact-sheets/2011/november/united-states-trans-pacific-partnership 2. “Trans-Pacific Strategic Economic Partnership Agreement” 2005 http://www.mfat.govt.nz/downloads/trade-agreement/transpacific/main-agreement.pdf 3. Daniels, Chris (10 February 2008). “First step to wider free trade”. New Zealand Herald. 4. US TRADE Representative TPP Round Updates; http://www.ustr.gov/tpp 5. “Mexico: Unexplored opportunities”. TPP Talk. New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade. 10 October 2012. http://www.mfat.govt.nz/Trade-and-Economic-Relations/2-Trade-Relationships-and-Agreements/Trans-Pacific/1-TPP-Talk/0-TPP-talk-10-Oct-2012.php 6. Canada Formally Joins Trans-Pacific Partnership” (Press release). Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada. 9 October 2012; http://www.international.gc.ca/media_commerce/comm/news-communiques/2012/10/09a.aspx?view=d 7) Dr. Claudio Loser, May 6, 2013; Where Trade Is Free, Powerful Economic Growth Is The Norm; Forbes.com. http://www.forbes.com/sites/realspin/2013/05/06/where-trade-is-free-powerful-economic-growth-is-the-norm/ 8) Margaret Flowers and Kevin Zeese, March 27, 2013, Truthout; http://www.truth-out.org/news/item/15353-transpacific-partnership-will-undermine-democracy-empower-transnational-corporations

The Technology Outlook for New Zealand Tertiary Education 2011-2016 reflects a collaborative effort between the New Media Consortium, the New Zealand Ministry of Education, Ako Aotearoa, the Australasian Council on Open, Distance, and E-learning, and the Distance Education Association of New Zealand. The research underpinning the report makes use of the NMC’s Delphi-based process for bringing groups of experts to a consensus viewpoint, in this case around the impact of emerging technologies on teaching, learning, research, or information management in New Zealand tertiary education over the next five years. That group of experts, known as the 2011 Horizon.NZ Advisory Board, is comprised of a body of knowledgeable individuals, all highly regarded in their fields; collectively the advisory board represents a range of diverse perspectives across the learning sector. View the work that produced the report at newzealand.wiki.nmc.org.