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newsletter #32 for Sunday, June 25th, 2023

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What is the NZ policy on puberty blockers?

New Zealand welcomes its rainbow community. But promoting transitional drugs to children is another matter. Health New Zealand no longer says puberty blockers are “safe and fully reversible”. Yet the Government funds charities that promote the use of puberty blockers, without the cautions. More political interference in medicine?

Check out The Centrist

The Centrist is a free online news platform, where you’ll find curated content on issues of importance to New Zealanders. Being informed is important, particularly when it comes time to vote. The focus is on under-served perspectives. Check it out at www.thecentrist.co.nz

Health NZ racially based surgery policy exposed

Health NZ (Te Whatu Ora) has recently started using the “Equity Adjustor Score” for patients waiting for elective surgery. Māori or Pasifika ethnicity is one of five factors that move you up the list. Proponents say this addresses “institutional racism”. Something as simple as more missed appointments is enough to “prove” racism.

Attention minor party supporters – Don’t waste your party vote!

This is about the difference between your vote for your local candidate and your party vote. For most minor party candidates, even if they win, the party vote is wasted on them. This is because the party vote probably won’t lead to an extra seat. Supporters of minor parties should consider using their party vote where it will count.

Hot debate sparked by Cleveland Clinic study on COVID-19 vaccines

A COVID-19 vaccine study by Cleveland Clinic has sparked controversy. It arguably shows more COVID-19 vaccine doses increase the risk of infection, but vaccine champions say it’s not convincing. Study’s authors downplay the findings by saying that wasn’t the point of the study. Dr Nabin Shrestha, one of the authors: “The unexpected finding of increasing risk…needs further study”.

A look at wealth versus capital gains tax

Rich people also want taxes to be “fair”. It’s not just the amount, it’s the hassle and intrusion. How does wealth tax compare to a capital gains tax, in the New Zealand context? How much will a tax generate if it drives away the people who are supposed to pay it?

News is something somebody doesn't want printed; all else is advertising.
-George Orwell

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