Those ebul baby-hating socialist countries...

[uber frau]

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-05-08/n ... an/3998676

Apparently the NZ government is planning to offer free long-term contraception to women on welfare. I'm not a NZer (I'm over the ditch) and don't know how the specifics of how this is being marketed, whether there's pressure for women to accept it or if it's going to be just another option available for women who can't find the money for full-price for these options.

In Australia these ppl would probably have access to a these contraceptives for whatever Health Care Card holders pay for a script-about $5, I think, but I don't know much about the NZ HC system (I've just sort of presumed it's fairly similar to ours).

This sort of thing aught to dissuade the Botkins and their ilk from trying to seeing NZ as a fundie utopia anyway.

[flojo]

I'm a NZer, but I'm living overseas atm.

If I recall correctly, the pill is usually $3nz ($2.20ish US), as are all prescriptions, including condoms (144 durex for $3). The bigger problem is the cost of contraception like IUDs, which still cost, unless medically indicated (although I believe norplant doesn't cost).

The new scheme, in my understanding, enables beneficiaries and their daughters aged 16-19 to access both the pill and longer forms of contraception for free. Personally, if it can be done in a way that isn't forced, or an abuse of power, I'm all for it. But I'm all for free contraception, period.

In this situation, the more right wing government in power at the moment (still WAY more left than USA - I still really don't like them though) are the ones introducing and pushing it. I think the move is great, but do have concerns with their recent history of "welfare reforms". Power relationships can be complicated things. The left wing parties (who I support in most areas), are againt it, as it is seen as risky for coercion, and is more stereotyping of beneficiaries.

[dora]

I don't think fundies would really like it here in New Zealand. Sure, we're mostly tolerant, an we already have Exclusive Brethren who cover their hair and wear denim skirts. We have mega churches led by perma-tan prosperity-gospel teaching husband and wife 'pastors'. We have Brian Tamaki and his 'enough is enough' anti-homosexual crowd.

But our previous prime mininister was a childless woman. We have openly gay members of parliament. We have legalised prostitution and civil unions for anyone, even Teh Gays. We even have (or had, I can't remember if he's still in) a Muslim member of parliament, and we let him swear on the Koran. Oh, and our current right wing government is still waaaay more left wing than Obama.

And on Stuff (newspaper website) 99% of people are in favour of free contreception being offered to people who choose to take it, although as flojo pointed out, it's pretty cheap anyway.

[clibbyjo]

I have always wanted to live in NZ. Your making me want to even more with all your fancy, liberal ideas and stuff. :)

[Avalondaughter]

I have always wanted to live in NZ. Your making me want to even more with all your fancy, liberal ideas and stuff. :)

Plus Flight of the Conchords. :D