The Wire with Caeden

Over the weekend, the US and Israel launched supposedly pre-emptive strikes against Iran. Their goal was, initially, to cripple Iran’s nuclear capabilities, and bring about regime change. In the days since, however, criticisms have been levied over the way that these claims have been wielded. Additionally, the western world, and the rules-based liberal order, have had to adjust further to the US’ chaotic behaviour on the world stage, with countries variably either standing behind the US, or casting criticism.

Tuesday Wire Host Alex spoke with Associate Professor in Politics at the University of Otago, Nicholas Khoo, about the role Nuclear Proliferation has played in these strikes, how the strikes have evolved, and how the liberal order has reacted.

Last week, National’s coalition partners in ACT and NZ First found themselves arguing over Air New Zealand; Specifically, over whether or not, during a time of struggle, the government should sell their shares in the company. National has sed that they are not currently considering any moves surrounding these shares.

Education Minister Erica Stanford announced yet more teacher training initiatives in order to bolster the education workforce, in addition to what she says is already the highest number of teachers since 2004, and the highest number of teachers in training.

The government has also spoken about the release of the newest New Zealand Crime and Victims survey, claiming that violent crime statistics going down proves the effectiveness of their tough on crime approach.

This week, Tuesday Wire Host Alex spoke to National MP Ryan Hamilton about all of these topics, starting with those Air New Zealand Shares.

The government recently announced five proposals to change transport rules in Aotearoa. The proposals include changes that would see e-scooters permitted in bike lanes, and one that would allow cyclists aged twelve and below to use footpaths. 

While four of the changes have been celebrated by Living Streets Aotearoa, the first, around allowing more bikes on footpaths, has been criticised. The organisation sez that this change could open a gateway to more bikes being permitted in pedestrian spaces, increasing risk especially for the elderly and the disabled. 

To discuss their stance on the issue, News Director Castor spoke to president of Living Streets Aotearoa, Tim Jones.

Last week, Te Hiringa Mahara the Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission released a series of data summaries on the state of youth mental health in Aotearoa. One of the key findings of the study was that despite an increase in stress levels, fewer young people are accessing specialist mental health and addiction support services.

To discuss the causes of the issue and how it can be addressed at multiple levels across society, News Director Castor spoke to Chief Executive of Te Hiringa Mahara, Karen Orsborn.