The Wire with Castor

Despite being at the backbone of our health system, primary care in Aotearoa is facing unprecedented struggles.That's according to a recent study looking at six wealthy countries healthcare systems, including New Zealand's.

An Increasing shortage of GP's, with the marjority of the workforce planning to retire in the next 10 years, an ageing population of patients, along with outdated and disconnected degital systems hampering the streamline transfer of patients between health organisations is putting unprecedented strain on the system, increasing wait times, and worsining outcomes.

To discuss their study and dig into their solutions I spoke to one of the study's researchers, Professor Felicity Goodyear-Smith from the Department of General Practice and Primary Healthcare.

This week on the Tuesday Wire...

For Dear Science this week, our expert, Professor Allan Blackman, chats with us about the Vera C. Rubin Observatory, Squeaky Rubber Shoes, and Plastic made from Milk. 

For our weekly catchup with the National Party, Tuesday Wire Host Alex spoke to National MP Ryan Hamlilton about the government's shares in Air New Zealand, their Teacher Training Boosts, and the results of the New Zealand Crime and Victims Survey.

He also spoke with Associate Professor in Politics at the University of Otago, Nicholas Khoo, about The US and Israeli strikes on Iran, nuclear proliferation, and what it means for the existing rules based liberal order.

This past weekend saw tensions in the Middle East rising, with Israel and the United States launching strikes on Iran yesterday, killing Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Iran responded by launching strikes on Israel, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Kuwait. 

The conflict follows tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran, which in turn followed protests across Iran earlier this year. As the situation develops, the internal and external politics of Iran are precarious, as all parties remain interested in who could take power. 

To discuss how the events came about and will affect domestic politics in Iran, News Director Castor spoke to political scientist and activist, Samira Ghoreishi.

Ghoreishi spoke to 95bFM in an independent capacity.

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.