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Chris Ford is a freelance writer and researcher based in Dunedin. He takes a left democratic socialist/social democratic perspective on the political issues of the day, whether they be national or global in nature. Chris has a strong interest in social justice issues. His work has been published in many local and international publications and he has also written not just on politics but on a diverse range of subjects ranging from real estate to economic issues. Chris is a graduate of the University of Otago and has worked for social services agencies and as a public servant.
The Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in Newtown, Connecticut was truly tragic. Many of the kids slain there were the same age as my Australian-based nieces and nephew now are.
I was fortunate to meet Sir Patrick Moore, who died on Sunday at the age of 89. I met him on his first (and perhaps only) visit to New Zealand in around 1997 or 1998.
Prank calls have become the staple of radio stations the world over.
This week New Zealand First Leader Winston Peters acted tough with his expulsion of Brendan Horan from that party's caucus. This followed allegations that Horan had misused money from his late lottery millionaire mother's bank account.
Yesterday's West Auckland tornado came at a time when National is pursuing a rightwards drift in its climate change policies.
And, ironically, it struck inside the heart of John Key's Helensville electorate.
Congratulations to Kate and Wills on their first baby. The news of their pregnancy sent great joy throughout the world at a very gloomy time - or that's what the media will have you believe!
Is David Shearer now safe? Prior to the 6pm evening news broadcasts last night, he wasn't as safe as houses. But after the TV One and TV3 news bulletins, he could breathe a little more easier.
People love their dogs, it seems. At least, that's what Peter Dunne found out over his cornies and toast yesterday.
Today is the International Day of Disabled Persons. This United Nations created day celebrates the diversity that disabled people (like me) bring to the world and also confronts society with the need to take down the barriers that hold us back from realising our full potential.
Lord Justice Brian Leveson produced his historic report on British media behaviour this week. It called for a sweeping independent media regulator to be created to regulate the excesses of sections of the media - i.e., the infamous print tabloids.
