OHbaby! Forums : Paula Bennett

OHbaby! Forums : Paula Bennett https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/ Copyright (c) 2006-2013 Web Wiz Forums - All Rights Reserved. Mon, 06 Apr 2026 13:45:54 +0000 Mon, 03 Aug 2009 21:07:37 +0000 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Web Wiz Forums 12.05 360 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/RSS_post_feed.asp?TID=27742 <![CDATA[OHbaby! Forums]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_images/web_wiz_forums.png https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/ <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Yeah the TIA is about $1200 a...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=738266&title=paula-bennett#738266 Author: Rachael21
Subject: 27742
Posted: 03 August 2009 at 9:07pm

Yeah the TIA is about $1200 a year, my course costs are just over $7000 a year, books $1000 so yeah I still need a loan the TIA is just for living costs as I'm not entitled to student allowance or loan for living costs yet studying sets me back about $100 a week I wouldn't have to pay if I was at home with my kids. The only reason I can afford to study is because my parents help out a lot but not everyone is lucky like that. So I don't think the TIA should be scrapped hell I'd even be stoked with a student loan for living costs. I do think there is a gap where low income families miss out on study incentives but I do have to say things were a lot easier financially when I had a partner on a low wage although a lot of that was just having someone to share the stress of having no money with.

Why aren't we asking why its OK for MPs to claim $900 a week to live in a house they own. Thats greedy, not a mother working her butt off to get off a benefit and asking for $80 a week.

This whole thing has made me really angry as a citizen of New Zealand. I hate how I care what everyone thinks people on benefits.]]> Mon, 03 Aug 2009 21:07:37 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=738266&title=paula-bennett#738266 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Freckle - now THOSE are the sorts...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=737919&title=paula-bennett#737919 Author: nikkitheknitter
Subject: 27742
Posted: 03 August 2009 at 3:08pm

Freckle - now THOSE are the sorts of stories of the people that I know who accessed the TIA

and are why it should still be around to cater for those studying at tertiary level and not just limited to under level 4 quals.]]> Mon, 03 Aug 2009 15:08:23 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=737919&title=paula-bennett#737919 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : I was very fortunate that I received...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=736845&title=paula-bennett#736845 Author: freckle
Subject: 27742
Posted: 02 August 2009 at 8:16am

I was very fortunate that I received the TIA ten years ago when I was on the DPB... My benefit was $300 plus $90 (ish) for TIA.... My daycare costs were $70 after my subsidy, rent $180, petrol $40, plus food power and phone and the rest...

I couldn't have done it without the TIA! I still had a loan to cover fees and $1000 course costs... That is all I could get a loan for as you can't get the living costs on a benefit so it would have been impossible to study without it. As a single mother my living costs were much higher than all the other students I knew as it's not easy to flat with people when you have children. Most people who I studied with lived in shared accommodation and paid probably a third of the rent I paid. Plus shared other costs such as phone and power. Then of course there is the daycare costs which I understand are more heavily subsided these days but I was paying $70.

As soon as I completed my undergraduate degree I got off the benefit and worked fulltime to support us. I have since gone back to do a masters and Phd (both self funded) and found studying whilst in a relationship soooo much easier than when single... I would not be where I am today if it wasn't for the TIA... I am soooo grateful I was lucky enough to get it as it really helped me get off the benefit which I understand is the purpose of it.... ]]> Sun, 02 Aug 2009 08:16:16 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=736845&title=paula-bennett#736845 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Must admit when I was on DPB I...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=736771&title=paula-bennett#736771 Author: Chickaboo
Subject: 27742
Posted: 01 August 2009 at 10:28pm

Must admit when I was on DPB I was getting round $330 and the student loans had interest on them (not that i agot a training allowance anyhow) so times have changed in that respect too.

ETA: just checked on OP and it was opinions on the TIA being scrapped , think this thread has gone way off topic, then back on then off again LOL

Edited by Chickaboo]]> Sat, 01 Aug 2009 22:28:12 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=736771&title=paula-bennett#736771 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : I guess the point was that they're...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=736562&title=paula-bennett#736562 Author: caliandjack
Subject: 27742
Posted: 01 August 2009 at 5:57pm

I guess the point was that they're complaining they don't get enough, when they are getting more than a lot of others.

I think entitlement to the TIA should be a case by case basis, which is seems it is and these ladies aren't getting it.

If they want to get an education and improve themselves, then why can't they do it with student loan and allowance the same as everybody else, don't see what being on the DPB has to do with it actually.

The OP was whether Paula Bennett should have disclosed the incomes of these two women, at least that's what I thought it was about. ]]> Sat, 01 Aug 2009 17:57:52 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=736562&title=paula-bennett#736562 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : I don't think those two women...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=736555&title=paula-bennett#736555 Author: caitlynsmygirl
Subject: 27742
Posted: 01 August 2009 at 5:46pm

I don't think those two women are getting ALL their money from the DPB alone, as someone else said I think they were also recieving sickness benefits for their children , and possibly accomadation allowance or something .
I don't know that anyone on the DPB alone would get close to $500 dollars .
]]> Sat, 01 Aug 2009 17:46:20 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=736555&title=paula-bennett#736555 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : I don't agree the ladies...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=736492&title=paula-bennett#736492 Author: Chickaboo
Subject: 27742
Posted: 01 August 2009 at 3:34pm

I don't agree the ladies income should of been mentioned but they also needed to be aware that they have put themselves out there that things may come up (and to me shows a bullying tactics the government would use)

I know people NOT on the DPB and a single parent working their 'ar##' off so not to be on the DPB and some of that reason is not to be labeled or cataorgised - my answer to them is its there to be used as an in between.

haven't read too much into the 2 ladies situations and won't even comment there - but getting back onto topic some what the tIA (which is funny cause at work the TIA = thoughts into action

)

I also knew of a girl when I was with my ex partner and we were both studying (getting less money than if we sat on our butts doing nothing) and as I said there was this girl on my course - it was her 3rd time on the course - she was getting it all paid for by WINZ as was on DPB - doesn't have to pay it back UNLESS she earned over a certain amount - and her reply to this - I am never getting a job so I willnever have to pay it back - NOW that type of person is what anonys me not the ones who are truely using the TIA to get out of the situation they are in.

I have been on the DPB myself and it was a means to an end - I needed it until i could earn for my children and I.]]> Sat, 01 Aug 2009 15:34:09 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=736492&title=paula-bennett#736492 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : fattartsrock wrote:Totally...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=736298&title=paula-bennett#736298 Author: ButterflyMum
Subject: 27742
Posted: 01 August 2009 at 10:53am

fattartsrock wrote:

Totally agree, Emz.

ditto]]> Sat, 01 Aug 2009 10:53:33 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=736298&title=paula-bennett#736298 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : I don;'t have a problem...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=736294&title=paula-bennett#736294 Author: ButterflyMum
Subject: 27742
Posted: 01 August 2009 at 10:51am

I don;'t have a problem with solo Mum's that have found themselves in a situation that is tough I do have a problem with them earning more then my hubby wages and then complaining they can hardly makes ends meet so yeah I think these woman put themselve in the lime light for compaling publicly and Paula only did what needed to be done those woman a racking it in while alot of us are really struggling. I would not have a problem with people knowing my WFF or what I do with it. Sometimes makes me wonder how much more I could be getting on my own and it should not be that way a solo Mother should not be earning more then a family who are working their 40 hour's its just not fair.]]> Sat, 01 Aug 2009 10:51:10 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=736294&title=paula-bennett#736294 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Well written Emz.... I've...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=735970&title=paula-bennett#735970 Author: AandCsmum
Subject: 27742
Posted: 31 July 2009 at 8:03pm

Well written Emz....

I've got an ouch the same size as you. Back from the days when interest was added.]]> Fri, 31 Jul 2009 20:03:14 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=735970&title=paula-bennett#735970 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : well written emz ]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=735609&title=paula-bennett#735609 Author: susieq
Subject: 27742
Posted: 31 July 2009 at 1:43pm

well written emz]]> Fri, 31 Jul 2009 13:43:49 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=735609&title=paula-bennett#735609 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Bizzy wrote:yeah i think the...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=735482&title=paula-bennett#735482 Author: kiwisj
Subject: 27742
Posted: 31 July 2009 at 11:52am

Bizzy wrote:

yeah i think the whole benefit and allowance system needs an overhaul... shall we put it all to rights now...

interesting to note that i never heard a word in the news about this whole thing yesterday at all!

Fortuicious timing re the expenses being released to the media, don't you think?

Edited by kiwisj]]> Fri, 31 Jul 2009 11:52:25 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=735482&title=paula-bennett#735482 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : yeah i think the whole benefit...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=735359&title=paula-bennett#735359 Author: Bizzy
Subject: 27742
Posted: 31 July 2009 at 10:14am

yeah i think the whole benefit and allowance system needs an overhaul... shall we put it all to rights now...

interesting to note that i never heard a word in the news about this whole thing yesterday at all! ]]> Fri, 31 Jul 2009 10:14:22 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=735359&title=paula-bennett#735359 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Well done, Emz! ]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=735349&title=paula-bennett#735349 Author: Peanut
Subject: 27742
Posted: 31 July 2009 at 10:08am

Well done, Emz! ]]> Fri, 31 Jul 2009 10:08:21 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=735349&title=paula-bennett#735349 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Totally agree, Emz. ]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=735294&title=paula-bennett#735294 Author: fattartsrock
Subject: 27742
Posted: 31 July 2009 at 9:30am

Totally agree, Emz.]]> Fri, 31 Jul 2009 09:30:41 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=735294&title=paula-bennett#735294 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : emz, I enjoyed reading your post,...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=735187&title=paula-bennett#735187 Author: jazzy
Subject: 27742
Posted: 31 July 2009 at 7:35am

emz, I enjoyed reading your post, very well put.
]]> Fri, 31 Jul 2009 07:35:33 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=735187&title=paula-bennett#735187 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Could be worse Kelly, she could...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=735181&title=paula-bennett#735181 Author: lizzle
Subject: 27742
Posted: 31 July 2009 at 7:11am

Could be worse Kelly, she could be singing
"all the boys and all the girls are begging to if you seek Amy" down the supermarket aisles!]]> Fri, 31 Jul 2009 07:11:42 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=735181&title=paula-bennett#735181 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Offtopic Baby got back , is...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=735150&title=paula-bennett#735150 Author: caitlynsmygirl
Subject: 27742
Posted: 31 July 2009 at 12:00am

Offtopic

Baby got back , is Caitlyn's favourite song ....omg! im a terrible mother !

]]> Fri, 31 Jul 2009 00:00:38 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=735150&title=paula-bennett#735150 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : I thought you put it really well...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=735145&title=paula-bennett#735145 Author: Hayzie
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 11:47pm

I thought you put it really well Emz. Well done!]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 23:47:37 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=735145&title=paula-bennett#735145 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : I have a small butt, but my friend...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=735131&title=paula-bennett#735131 Author: emz
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 10:58pm

I have a small butt, but my friend has a lot of junk in the trunk and dances so well to Baby Got Back it's awesome. Guess what I'll be singing when I try to get to sleep tonight (thanks Kelly

)]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 22:58:57 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=735131&title=paula-bennett#735131 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : caitlynsmygirl wrote:....im...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=735127&title=paula-bennett#735127 Author: Lexidore
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 10:52pm

caitlynsmygirl wrote:

....im neither here nor there about big butts either ....

I tend to prefer Big Butts, because I have a big one

Nice singing by the way much more in tune than mine (as much as you can be in tune for that song) LOL]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 22:52:19 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=735127&title=paula-bennett#735127 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : I've found this all really...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=735122&title=paula-bennett#735122 Author: emz
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 10:46pm

I've found this all really interesting to read and usually don't post in the 'hot' topics anymore, but thought I'd put my 2c in anyway!

The issues at hand:
-Removal of TIA - I think it's a good idea. It's not like if you don't have money, you can't study. I had no help from my family and did it. I have friends that had partners and kids and didn't get any help other than borrowing (like me - 30k ouch!) because, like others have said, higher education is a privilege, not a right and if you're motivated to make a better life for yourself, then you'll borrow just like the rest of society. It's not that I'm against beneficiaries, I also don't agree on student allowances being based on parent's or partner's incomes if you don't actually get any money from them - if benefits are on a case-by-case basis, student allowances should be too.

-The release of the information about the 2 specific beneficiaries - they put themselves out there without fully releasing the facts, I guess unfortunately it was bound to happen. You can't make a half-point and expect your income (which the minister would have been able to get a ballpark figure of anyway just from general above-board snooping) not to affect it when that's what you're talking about. If PB has done something illegal, then she needs to be dealt with about that. If not, while it might not seem 'fair' or 'right', she had every right to (like I said, that's only IF it's all above-board).

There have been a few personal comments that seem to put people into a them vs us situation (yet again lol). I have a pretty good feeling of how it is to be a single mum and when DH left a couple of months ago I was really surprised to find I would be better off on the DPB than with him, so the grass is not always greener and the mums not on the DPB aren't necessarily better off and looking down their noses.

Solo mums have to do it by themselves 24/7 - I get that. A lot of mums with partners do to though. If I knew how hard it was going to be being a wife to an absent husband, I may have thought twice about it. We never have any constants in our lives, Jack is always clinging to his father because he's scared he's going to leave etc.

So while I applaud single mothers (because lets face it, the majority do an awesome job and wouldn't be on the DPB if they could help it) just remember we're all in the same boat - most of us aren't mega-rich, a lot of us live paycheck to paycheck and eat bread for days before payday etc etc. And as far as I'm concerned, if you want to get ahead in life, you make it happen for yourself. You don't complain about removing a measely few dollars a week (yes it's a lot, but it's government money to do with what they like) because if you look at the bigger picture, you realise that getting a student loan for living isn't that big of a deal when you'd be earning a much better wage and putting your family in a better financial position.

Just m2c anyway. And I've been on a benefit before (sickness benefit for 5 months) so I know what it's like to be a beneficiary, just like I know how easy it is to scam the system for all you can get (I had a flatmate that did it well and got something like $350 a week to be an artist). I think the whole benefit system needs an overhaul, like if it makes sense to borrow off the government to better your life, you do that rather than getting handouts. Because in reality not many people like living on handouts and would rather help themselves out of terrible situations (and yes I would be more than happy to borrow my WFF money and pay it back over a lifetime because it would mean that most of us would actually strive for higher incomes/better jobs which is good for the economy).

Anyway, probably doesn't make sense, it's far too late for an 8-month pregnant lady to be on the computer

Edited by emz]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 22:46:23 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=735122&title=paula-bennett#735122 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : ....im neither here nor there...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734776&title=paula-bennett#734776 Author: caitlynsmygirl
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 4:35pm

....im neither here nor there about big butts either ....]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 16:35:25 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734776&title=paula-bennett#734776 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : I like big butts and I can not...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734774&title=paula-bennett#734774 Author: caitlynsmygirl
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 4:34pm

I like big butts and I can not lie
all you other brothers cant deny
that when a girl walks in with an itty bitty waist
and a round thing in your face
you get sprung ...

(id write the rest, but I don't want people to actually know that I know the song well ....)

As for the topic being discussed .
I can see where everyone is coming from , so im leaving it at that .

]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 16:34:54 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734774&title=paula-bennett#734774 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Just decided to link to the actual...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734753&title=paula-bennett#734753 Author: nikkitheknitter
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 4:12pm

Just decided to link to the actual information about the Training Incentive Allowance in case anyone wanted to read about the grant that is being changed.]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 16:12:31 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734753&title=paula-bennett#734753 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : She got them from WINZ. I don't...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734644&title=paula-bennett#734644 Author: fire_engine
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 2:21pm

She got them from WINZ.

I don't know where I stand on the issue but it was interesting to hear Duncan Garner from TV3 say this was nothing new - ministers in previous governments (btoh Labour and National) would sneakily release information about people who complained but wouldn't put their name to it. I guess at least Paula was upfront about it rather than leaking it and not being honest.]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 14:21:21 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734644&title=paula-bennett#734644 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Does anyone know if the information...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734642&title=paula-bennett#734642 Author: jazzy
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 2:18pm

Does anyone know if the information Paula Bennett released about the income of the two ladies was given to her by them or did she snoop for it.

Sorry if it has already been said, I have not read all the posts as some of them have nothing to do wth topic, lol

]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 14:18:26 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734642&title=paula-bennett#734642 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : The next time someone complains...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734620&title=paula-bennett#734620 Author: kellie
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 1:59pm

The next time someone complains about the public heathcare system I wonder if a Minister will publicly reveal the STDS that person had freely treated so that all the facts are on the table hmmm

]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 13:59:02 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734620&title=paula-bennett#734620 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : yep you summed it well pepsi ]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734599&title=paula-bennett#734599 Author: susieq
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 1:36pm

yep you summed it well pepsi]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 13:36:55 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734599&title=paula-bennett#734599 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : On Liz's behalf.... Raindrops...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734596&title=paula-bennett#734596 Author: MummyFreckle
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 1:34pm

On Liz's behalf....

Raindrops on roses, whiskers on kittens....

Bright copper kettles, warm woolen mittens....

(FWIW I have soooooooo much to say on this matter - but I am acutely aware of how personal these discussions get even if we dont intend them to)

Oh and Bizzy is right (hey I dont say that very often!) you cant read TONE into a post, so dont presume that people are attacking you.

]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 13:34:16 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734596&title=paula-bennett#734596 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : I know my singing is not going...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734584&title=paula-bennett#734584 Author: Lexidore
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 1:22pm

I know my singing is not going to compare to Liz's but here ya go anyways LF

*ahem* *singing wayyyyyyy off keyy!!!*

So, move your body, if you got the notion
Front to back in a rock-like motion
Now that you got it, if you think you can
Do it to the music, that's the Bartman

Everybody, if you can, do the Bartman
Shake you body, turn it out, if you can, man
Move you butt to the side, yes, you can, can
Everybody in the house, do the Bartman

Everybody, if you can, do the Bartman
Shake you body, turn it out, if you can, man
Move you butt to the side, yes, you can, can
Everybody in the house, do the Bartman]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 13:22:49 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734584&title=paula-bennett#734584 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : ha ha good one bexs ]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734582&title=paula-bennett#734582 Author: jazzy
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 1:19pm

ha ha good one bexs

]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 13:19:55 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734582&title=paula-bennett#734582 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Where is Liz's singing when...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734581&title=paula-bennett#734581 Author: lilfatty
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 1:19pm

Where is Liz's singing when you need it

]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 13:19:53 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734581&title=paula-bennett#734581 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : ]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734574&title=paula-bennett#734574 Author: Peanut
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 1:12pm

]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 13:12:40 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734574&title=paula-bennett#734574 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Nice work Pepsi ]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734573&title=paula-bennett#734573 Author: rachndean
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 1:11pm

Nice work Pepsi

]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 13:11:54 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734573&title=paula-bennett#734573 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : A newlywed couple moves into their...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734568&title=paula-bennett#734568 Author: Lexidore
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 1:10pm

A newlywed couple moves into their new house. One day the husband comes home from work and his wife says, "Honey, you know, in the upstairs bathroom one of the pipes is leaking, could you fix it?" The husband says, "What do I look like, Mr. Plumber?" A few days go by, and he comes home from work and his wife says, "Honey, the car won't start. I think it needs a new battery. Could you change it for me?" He says: "What do I look like, Mr. Goodwrench?" Another few days go by, and it's raining pretty hard. The wife finds a leak in the roof. She says, "Honey, there's a leak on the roof! Can you please fix it?" He says, "What do I look like, Bob Vila?" The next day the husband comes home, and the roof is fixed. So is the plumbing. So is the car. He asks his wife what happened. "Oh, I had a handyman come in and fix them," she says. "Great! How much is that going to cost me?" he snarls. Wife says: "Nothing. He said he'd do it for free if I either baked him a cake or slept with him." "Uh, well, what kind of cake did you make?" asks the husband. "What do I look like," she says, "Betty Crocker?"

Sorry totally Immature of me but would love to see a few smiles cracked in this thread.... might just break the tension a little

]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 13:10:32 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734568&title=paula-bennett#734568 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : pepsi wrote:'sup ladies! To...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734553&title=paula-bennett#734553 Author: Natalie_G
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 1:00pm

pepsi wrote:

'sup ladies!

To summarise.

Majority of solo mums = Awesome (I was raised by one..and I in turn, am awesome).
A rare few = Dodgy and cheating the system (Not referring to the 2 women).
Knowing people's income, DHB or otherwise = not so nice when it's you.
These 2 specific women = Unfortunate, but it's done now.

You summed up perfectly.

I had my comment now I am leaving as it still gets pretty heated.]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 13:00:22 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734553&title=paula-bennett#734553 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : I agree with nicelis... I was...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734544&title=paula-bennett#734544 Author: JD
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 12:53pm

I agree with nicelis...

I was able to take advantage of the TIA when I studied and to be honest, I don't think I would have studied without it. There should totally be more support for anyone studying regardless if they are single or married or whatever.
It is extreemly hard to commit to studying to avance yourself and your family when it is such a huge financial commitment and is likely to put you into debt for quite some time.

One the other hand, I have heard of quite a few (single and not single) students that abuse what help there is and do lots of little courses or don't complete courses.... this is a real shame because I think it is them that have ruined it for others.

As only half of my course was covered by TIA, I had to apply to a family trust for the other half. I think the way the trust is set up is good and the TIA could take a similar stance. You have to pay back the money if you quit or fail your course.

As far as making their financial situation public, I don't really agree, but it was good to see both sides of the story.
I was so hard up when I was studying (not that we are much better off at the moment), I wouldn't have cared if my details were made public. Actually it would probably have amazed alot of people on how some students survive (again, married or single).

$700 seems heaps to get on a benefit...I never got anything near that. In fact I don't think I ever got over $370 per week!

Its unfortunate that some people have been offended through this thread, and I think it just goes to show that everyone no matter what their situation has struggles and you shouldn't judge until you have walked in their shoes.

]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 12:53:40 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734544&title=paula-bennett#734544 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : aww pepsi i thought you were going...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734531&title=paula-bennett#734531 Author: Bizzy
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 12:41pm

aww pepsi i thought you were going to add a song! very disappointed i am! lol!

thanks nikki, i knew nothing about the TIA either.]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 12:41:06 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734531&title=paula-bennett#734531 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Thanks for the explanation about...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734514&title=paula-bennett#734514 Author: kiwisj
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 12:28pm

Thanks for the explanation about the TIA Nikki.

I agree, there certainly does need to be more support for students IN GENERAL. Don't even get me started on that soap box

]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 12:28:38 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734514&title=paula-bennett#734514 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Thanks for the summary. This...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734510&title=paula-bennett#734510 Author: nikkitheknitter
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 12:25pm

Thanks for the summary.

This issue is about the Training Incentive Allowance: a grant you can receive while you are on the DPB (or sickness/invalids benefit) to enable you to cover some of the extra costs incurred while studying. You can split it to cover some of your fees and be paid out a weekly amount.

It doesn't cover all your fees as it is a maximum amount per year.

You are only able to access it if you haven't completed a qualification in the previous 5 (?) years.

It is a fantastic allowance designed to enable people to move off the DPB and into the workforce.

The secondary issue is about a Minister abusing privacy and trying to create a situation where the focus is taken away from the initial issue and intimidate opponents of government policy into not speaking out.

Success.

FWIW: I wasn't eligible for a student allowance when I was a studying as a single and had a student loan which I struggled on. I was eligible for the TIA when I had Hannah and used it for the remainder of my degree, I still had to get a student loan to cover 1/2 my fees. While it wasn't a huge amount extra weekly, it was sorta the make or break in me going back to uni to finish my study so that I could get a job. I did choose to move to Wellington to study instead of continuing extramural and living with my parents which did increase my costs, but I believe the benefit to my child and to myself were of sufficient value that I chose that path. You can read more of my story in my blog post on the matter.

While I advocate for the retention of the TIA, I would also advocate for more social support for students who are in relationships (well.. actually for students generally). The two aren't mutually exclusive ya know?

And I totally don't consent at all to my private details being public knowledge. At all.]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 12:25:44 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734510&title=paula-bennett#734510 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : You are awesome Pepsi ]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734508&title=paula-bennett#734508 Author: BuzzyBee
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 12:23pm

You are awesome Pepsi

]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 12:23:40 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734508&title=paula-bennett#734508 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : BuzzyBee wrote: I bet it'd...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734506&title=paula-bennett#734506 Author: jazzy
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 12:22pm

BuzzyBee wrote:

I bet it'd be a different story if your partner/husband left you and you had no other option but to go on the DPB for a while, instead of moaning and bitching about the amounts/benefits that single mothers/sickness beneficiaries or whatever receive, maybe you should be grateful that we live in a country where this kind of support is available to those who need it.

Funny thing if my DH left me I would be better off for money on a benifit. But if he did, I would be better off getting a job, & maintance, & child care sub.

I had no intention of making a personal issue to anyone on OB & did not, I just joined in a discussion, that was already started. You however did, you took it personal, & made it nasty.

]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 12:22:16 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734506&title=paula-bennett#734506 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : pepsi wrote:'sup ladies! To...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734504&title=paula-bennett#734504 Author: kiwisj
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 12:20pm

Hear hear.

Jeepers, this is a different thread to the one I read before I went to bed last night

]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 12:20:15 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734504&title=paula-bennett#734504 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : pepsi wrote:'sup ladies! To...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734496&title=paula-bennett#734496 Author: clover
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 12:16pm

Fantastically well put!]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 12:16:03 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734496&title=paula-bennett#734496 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : 'sup ladies! To summarise. Majority...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734494&title=paula-bennett#734494 Author: pepsi
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 12:12pm

'sup ladies!

To summarise.

Majority of solo mums = Awesome (I was raised by one..and I in turn, am awesome).
A rare few = Dodgy and cheating the system (Not referring to the 2 women).
Knowing people's income, DHB or otherwise = not so nice when it's you.
These 2 specific women = Unfortunate, but it's done now. ]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 12:12:21 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734494&title=paula-bennett#734494 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Right this is my last post, I've...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734474&title=paula-bennett#734474 Author: BuzzyBee
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 11:54am

Right this is my last post, I've deleted what I was originally going to say because it's not going to get us anywhere.

If you choose to read too much into my posts and get in a huff, then its your own problem. My intentions were not to personally attack or upset anyone so I'm sorry you feel that way.

Edited by BuzzyBee]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 11:54:16 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734474&title=paula-bennett#734474 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : buzzybee please dont edit or delete...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734460&title=paula-bennett#734460 Author: Bizzy
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 11:37am

buzzybee please dont edit or delete your comments.. then nothing will make sense LOL!

]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 11:37:31 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734460&title=paula-bennett#734460 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Now who is taking comments too...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734459&title=paula-bennett#734459 Author: BuzzyBee
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 11:37am

Now who is taking comments too personally, I know nothing about your situation or what kind of mother you are, and to be quite frank I don't give a rats bum, it doesn't have any bearing on me in the slightest. It was a matter of speech, and as Bizzy said I was only responding to a comment you had originally made. ]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 11:37:15 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734459&title=paula-bennett#734459 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Lol and this was why I was just...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734456&title=paula-bennett#734456 Author: BuzzyBee
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 11:33am

Lol and this was why I was just about to edit and delete my posts.

Reading too much into it darling, I was simply saying that I do not 'sit around on the benefit' like you have stated/implied, I'm a mother just like the rest of you and I'm on my feet all day.

I don't doubt you as a mother, but I haveto question where you get the idea that we 'sit around and just rake the money in']]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 11:33:40 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734456&title=paula-bennett#734456 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Post edit done because I am fed...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734453&title=paula-bennett#734453 Author: jazzy
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 11:32am

Post edit done because I am fed up with the way this topic has gone.

Edited by jazzy]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 11:32:11 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734453&title=paula-bennett#734453 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : jazzy she wasnt attacking you......]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734451&title=paula-bennett#734451 Author: Bizzy
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 11:31am

jazzy she wasnt attacking you... merely responding to your comment... remember you cant hear a tone of voice... she is merely saying she doesnt know what you do (you could be a working mum, a day care mum, any type) but knows what she does...

that aside i found it interesting that john key is backing paula all the way and on the breakfast show the young gun (who PB used to be before beign promoted) for national pretty much just echoed what john key had said...

and regardless of wether taxpayer funded benefits should be made public the privacy act was certainly breached by several parties.

]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 11:31:11 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734451&title=paula-bennett#734451 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : BuzzyBee wrote: Not sure what...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734447&title=paula-bennett#734447 Author: jazzy
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 11:23am

BuzzyBee wrote:

Not sure what kind of mother you are,

I am a good mother.

Post edit done because I am fed up with the way this topic has gone.

Edited by jazzy]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 11:23:39 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734447&title=paula-bennett#734447 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : I think that one of the things...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734410&title=paula-bennett#734410 Author: lemongirl
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 10:45am

I think that one of the things about these sort of arguements that gets people riled up is while some people might thing they are only talking about *those* women other people think well I'm one of *those* women and feel that the attacks on them are attacks on me.

Since the personal is political I'm going to leave this debate with three anecdotes:

1. A friend of mine from school had her baby a few months after bursary. She took that year off, then went onto uni to earn her law degree. She clerked at the high court and is now studying at cambridge for her masters. She had some time on the benefit and the TIA.

2. Another guy I met at varsity was born with major fetal amomalities. Wasn't expected to live, but was on the invalids and TIA benefit during varsity. Said the proudest day of his life was when he was able to go into WINZ and say 'I don't need the benefit anymore I have a job'

3. JK Rowling is the world's most famous 'dpb' mum. If you have time, read her graduation to speech to harvard students on the benefits of failure:

"failure in life is inevitable. It is impossible to live without failing at something, unless you live so cautiously that you might as well not have lived at all – in which case, you fail by default."

This benefit is there to help get people back on their feet after a life disaster. A marriage breakdown, an unplanned pregnancy, a fetal abormality. It gives people a chance to get back on their feet after a set back and go on to bigger and better things. Yes they do 'pay' it back through higher taxes on their salary once they start earning more. I'd like to think we still live in a society where one life mistake consigns a person and their children to a lifetime of poverty.

Edited by lemongirl]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 10:45:32 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734410&title=paula-bennett#734410 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : So.......... Back to the ORIGINAL...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734405&title=paula-bennett#734405 Author: Parki
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 10:40am

So.......... Back to the ORIGINAL point of the topic......

]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 10:40:35 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734405&title=paula-bennett#734405 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : So much to read. I do feel sorry...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734401&title=paula-bennett#734401 Author: Natalie_G
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 10:36am

So much to read.

I do feel sorry for solo mums whose partners have left them.

I unfortunately have known many solo mums who have abused the system and kept having children just so they can stay on the DPB.

All I have to say is these ladies went to the media with half of the story and Paula Bennett set the facts straight. One of the ladies came back and said she did not mind the information being released.

I am also studying and have a student loan of over $6k thats the only way I can study I don't know why these ladies can't study like the majority of the students and get a student loan and they can also study at home and still be with their children. There is lots of help out there for everyone even working families (WFF).

Edited to remove DPB content as it was off topic.

Edited by AriannesMum]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 10:36:38 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734401&title=paula-bennett#734401 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : lisa85 wrote:I ain't touching...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734396&title=paula-bennett#734396 Author: CuriousG
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 10:33am

lisa85 wrote:

I ain't touching this with an 80ft pole lol

Me neither. I have some strong views but I think this time Ill keep them to myself.]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 10:33:41 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734396&title=paula-bennett#734396 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Haha I only just came across this...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734386&title=paula-bennett#734386 Author: lisa85
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 10:25am

Haha I only just came across this one and after reading the first page I totally agree summerlamb. I think we all just need to back away slowly.......]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 10:25:11 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734386&title=paula-bennett#734386 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : It was always going to end this...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734378&title=paula-bennett#734378 Author: clover
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 10:17am

It was always going to end this way.....]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 10:17:00 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734378&title=paula-bennett#734378 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : kaiz231 wrote:I thought we...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734376&title=paula-bennett#734376 Author: caliandjack
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 10:13am

kaiz231 wrote:

I thought we were all just talking about these 2 particular women?

Me 2 !]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 10:13:58 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734376&title=paula-bennett#734376 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : I ain't touching this with...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734375&title=paula-bennett#734375 Author: lisa85
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 10:13am

I ain't touching this with an 80ft pole lol]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 10:13:54 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734375&title=paula-bennett#734375 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : BuzzyBee wrote:LittleSal I...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734366&title=paula-bennett#734366 Author: mamanee
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 10:09am

BuzzyBee wrote:

LittleSal I was referring to comments on earlier pages where people were stating that since they are taxpayers, they think they are entitled to finding out personal information of those who receive benefits etc. When I was a taxpayer I never once stopped to think about or query where my taxes were going, but that it was in capable hands and the govt. has its notions in place to delegate the money where needed/required, and it was going to those who probably needed it more than me.

And that wasn't what my post was based on, I was merely trying to put things into perspective, people are making preconceived misconceptions based on the information that Paula has released, not every solo mum on DPB earns those particular amounts

Comments along the lines of 'wish I could sit at home and be paid $500' etc etc go to suggest people think that $550 and $750 are the norm.

These were the comments I was relating to also, I don't usually get offended but it sort of gets my back up when people harp on about 'my money and my tax money and I pay taxes'. Good for you! It still doesn't give you any more rights than the rest of us when it comes to privacy. and it's not a self-esteem issue on my side of the fence, as I have great self esteem, and being on a benefit doesn't bring that down like some might assume. And yes being a mum is bloody hard whether you're on your own or you have a husband, and I apologise to anybody that I have offended because that wasn't my intention but like James said, you try walking in the shoes of a solo parent, it's hard enough without feeling we owe you our soul because you indirectly put the food on our table!]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 10:09:01 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734366&title=paula-bennett#734366 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Fully agreeing with you all, we...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734350&title=paula-bennett#734350 Author: BuzzyBee
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 9:56am

Fully agreeing with you all, we are talking about these 2 ladies being profiled and that Paula Bennett has overstepped the line IMHO.

I may have gone a bit too indepth with my above posts and given my personal situation as an example, but I'm trying to make a point that before you go judging these ladies on 'their income' they are clearly being given benefits that the govt. has calculated to specifically meet their needs, not necessarily the amount every beneficiary gets.

]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 09:56:04 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734350&title=paula-bennett#734350 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Peanut wrote:james, I personally...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734349&title=paula-bennett#734349 Author: james
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 9:55am

Peanut wrote:

james, I personally think your comments are uncalled for. At no point in this discussion has anyone personally attacked solo mums on this site (there may have been implied things or things that can be taken personally, as there is in any thread!). Anyone has the right to complain about their situation on here, at no point is anyone saying there situation is better or worse than the next persons. I personally struggle at the moment when my partner is away as I am not use to doing it alone. I have full respect to solo mums who do it on their own 24/7 but still expect respect from them for the job that I do with my child.

But it has been attacking solo mums weather it was the two that came out or anyone on here this is real life and people will take things personly. As you took my comment personaly yet i never named you ]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 09:55:50 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734349&title=paula-bennett#734349 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : LittleSal I was referring to comments...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734340&title=paula-bennett#734340 Author: BuzzyBee
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 9:51am

LittleSal I was referring to comments on earlier pages where people were stating that since they are taxpayers, they think they are entitled to finding out personal information of those who receive benefits etc. When I was a taxpayer I never once stopped to think about or query where my taxes were going, but that it was in capable hands and the govt. has its notions in place to delegate the money where needed/required, and it was going to those who probably needed it more than me.

And that wasn't what my post was based on, I was merely trying to put things into perspective, people are making preconceived misconceptions based on the information that Paula has released, not every solo mum on DPB earns those particular amounts

Comments along the lines of 'wish I could sit at home and be paid $500' etc etc go to suggest people think that $550 and $750 are the norm. ]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 09:51:31 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734340&title=paula-bennett#734340 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : I thought we were all just talking...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734337&title=paula-bennett#734337 Author: Snappy
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 9:50am

I thought we were all just talking about these 2 particular women?

*ducks for cover*]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 09:50:40 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734337&title=paula-bennett#734337 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : james, I personally think your...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734327&title=paula-bennett#734327 Author: Peanut
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 9:44am

james, I personally think your comments are uncalled for. At no point in this discussion has anyone personally attacked solo mums on this site (there may have been implied things or things that can be taken personally, as there is in any thread!). Anyone has the right to complain about their situation on here, at no point is anyone saying there situation is better or worse than the next persons. I personally struggle at the moment when my partner is away as I am not use to doing it alone. I have full respect to solo mums who do it on their own 24/7 but still expect respect from them for the job that I do with my child.]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 09:44:56 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734327&title=paula-bennett#734327 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : I agree with HeidisMum, It seems...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734322&title=paula-bennett#734322 Author: GuestGuest
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 9:38am

I agree with HeidisMum, It seems like a few people are being overly defensive when I don't think anyone here has personally criticised anyone else. The discussion has been around Paula Bennett and the two women, not about ourselves.

It seems people are reading things into comments that aren't actually there. If you think people seem superior or are judging you then I think that is more of a self esteem issue than anything. We're all different, come from different places, are in different family and financial situations, that's what makes a good debate, let's not make it personal!]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 09:38:15 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734322&title=paula-bennett#734322 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : HeidisMum wrote:james wrote "well...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734304&title=paula-bennett#734304 Author: james
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 9:25am

HeidisMum wrote:

james wrote
"well said buzzy bee yep im nother one of those people relly people give us single mums a brake its not like we walked into this on purpose and its not easy rasing child on your own. how many post do we get on here about "how will i cope while my hubby is away" haha relly people"

After reading through most of the replies on here I don't think anyone is trying to put all solo mums into a box but rather saying that these 2 ladies in particular have kind of asked for there "private" business to be put out there, that is just what happens when you take anything to the media. Yes solo mums do get put into a box sometimes but in reality I think we all know that being a parent is hard work, and doing it on your own is even harder, but lets not get personal and petty. Making a snarky comment about coping while DH's are away is below the belt, I cannot help that I am in a stable relationship and that I am going to miss my DH while he is away, and I would never expect that here on OhBaby I would be criticised for asking for suggestions as to how to cope, doing it on your own is hard work no matter what the circumstances.

I also think its fair to point out that just because you have a partner and an income does not mean that things are always easier, and it is just as common for those of us who are not on the DPB or likewise to be put into the bracket of "having it easy" but this so often not the case, we all have things we have to deal with that we would rather not.

This whole thing just goes to prove one thing "Money IS the root of all evil" and brings out the worst in people.

Of coruse it is personal it became personal before i even join this thread. It seem to me that many people were judging way before i came on here and if you feel hard done by then take a walk in a solo mum or dad shoes]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 09:25:13 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734304&title=paula-bennett#734304 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : I guess the issue at this current...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734294&title=paula-bennett#734294 Author: caliandjack
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 9:20am

I guess the issue at this current time with what these women are complaining about.
Is that there are a lot of families working and earning a lot less than these women are getting, and not getting any assistance from the govt.
Its not about being a taxpayer, its about working damn hard to support your family and getting a lot less than these women and having to manage without a benefit.
I think some people find it a bit rich that they're complaining about $28 a week, when they are financially better off than a lot of others.
Not all solo mum's are on the benefit, so why should these women who are get special treatment?]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 09:20:02 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734294&title=paula-bennett#734294 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : I don't think anyone was...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734282&title=paula-bennett#734282 Author: clover
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 9:10am

I don't think anyone was criticising mums on the DPB, I certainly wasn't and to be honest the more I thought about it overnight I decided that I'm not sure that I do actually agree with what she did. She probably would have been better off saying, a typical woman in this situation would get x amount.

And I hate to say it but I don't think you can ever get away from the taxpayer thinking that they "support" beneficiaries, right or wrong it is a fairly ingrained mentality (but of course who knows when the taxpayer might need help themselves).

BuzzyBee, neeandsam & James, from what I've seen from you all in my time here you are great mums, with very happy little boys and you're all doing a fantastic job managing the situations you are in, I'm sure there was no intention from anyone to criticise or offend you and I apologise if any of my comments did.]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 09:10:16 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734282&title=paula-bennett#734282 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : james wrote "well said buzzy...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734272&title=paula-bennett#734272 Author: BeLoved
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 8:58am

james wrote
"well said buzzy bee yep im nother one of those people relly people give us single mums a brake its not like we walked into this on purpose and its not easy rasing child on your own. how many post do we get on here about "how will i cope while my hubby is away" haha relly people"

After reading through most of the replies on here I don't think anyone is trying to put all solo mums into a box but rather saying that these 2 ladies in particular have kind of asked for there "private" business to be put out there, that is just what happens when you take anything to the media. Yes solo mums do get put into a box sometimes but in reality I think we all know that being a parent is hard work, and doing it on your own is even harder, but lets not get personal and petty. Making a snarky comment about coping while DH's are away is below the belt, I cannot help that I am in a stable relationship and that I am going to miss my DH while he is away, and I would never expect that here on OhBaby I would be criticised for asking for suggestions as to how to cope, doing it on your own is hard work no matter what the circumstances.

I also think its fair to point out that just because you have a partner and an income does not mean that things are always easier, and it is just as common for those of us who are not on the DPB or likewise to be put into the bracket of "having it easy" but this so often not the case, we all have things we have to deal with that we would rather not.

This whole thing just goes to prove one thing "Money IS the root of all evil" and brings out the worst in people.

Edited by HeidisMum]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 08:58:21 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734272&title=paula-bennett#734272 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : For BuzzyBee It's bloody...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734257&title=paula-bennett#734257 Author: mamanee
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 8:38am

For BuzzyBee

It's bloody hard work being on the DPB and although we don't have the added medical costs in our household, we are the same in that I get the bare minimum of payments each week, have barely enough to survive and am raising a two year old boy on my own which is a 24/7 job!

I have to pay $250 a week rent by myself, phone, power, internet, groceries, which barely leaves me $20 a week to myself which usually gets used for more groceries towards the end of the week.

I didn't ask or choose to be in this situation. My partner asked me to leave when Sam was four months old and to be honest being on the DPB and just surviving each week is much better than receiving disconnection notices for your gas/power/phone every few days and threatened eviction because your idiot partner doesn't think it necessary to pay bills.

]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 08:38:14 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734257&title=paula-bennett#734257 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : BuzzyBee wrote:This topic is...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734248&title=paula-bennett#734248 Author: james
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 8:24am

BuzzyBee wrote:

This topic is close to home for me, I'm a solo mother currently receiving the DPB and I have a few things I'd like to point out.

The women involved in this case are on the higher receiving end for benefits! I get WELL UNDER $500 p/week (and no I'm not going to be anymore specific than that, just because you pay taxes DOES NOT MEAN my personal business should be available for all in sundry to read).
My ren t is 280 + water on top of that weekly, then power, groceries, petrol, home phone (dirt cheap dial up included), regular medications and drs/specialists appts, health and contents insurance - you get my gist. The list goes on and on, we get paid weekly and the day AFTER I literally end up with about $15-20 left to live on for 6 days after I have done our groceries. It is NOT an ideal lifestyle but if I was to go out and get a job (which in the current economic state is not an easy task atm) I'd be lucky to earn as much, let alone more than I do living on the DPB. And then add childcare costs onto the list and I am better off remaining on the benefit and making the most of staying at home with my son, simple really.

As it is My Dad is having to pitch in to help us more often than I'm comfortable with, as he was saying a few days back it's actually costing him MORE having us live in our own place in comparison to when we were boarding with my parents! Some weeks (ie. when I have to pay big bills, or something crops up) he is having to buy us grocieres. I'm budgeting, my father is a bank manager ffs - we are simply living on the bare minimum ...and since I only have up to 6th form school cert I wouldn't be able to get a job that could pay me much more than minimum wage.

So please before you all go sitting there and bunching 'all solo mothers' into the same category, please take into consideration that these ladies 'incomes' are NOT the norm, they clearly have other entitlements and benefits added on top of the normal dpb and accomodation costs etc. And doesn't the $750 lady have three children, one with Autism (or some medical condition which means she would get financial assistance for that too) ...bigger house would be needed which means higher rent ...therefore more financial assistance with this and the list goes on.

The Training Incentive Allowance wasn't just generally to help with course costs, it was moreso financial aide for childcare and travel costs ...as well as materials for course, help towards fees etc. As far as I'm aware MOST single mothers/beneficiaries that chose to study still ended up having to take out a studen loan of some kind because $3000 a year is obviously not enough to cover full costs of most diploma's/degrees/courses.

In a lot of posts above I definitely started to sense the 'we/them' demeanour, just because someone receives income/benefit from government; and your a taypayer does not make you the superior. I certainly can't speak for all single mums, but my kid comes first and foremost, he will NEVER go without his needs always being met, whether it bloody kills me! Chances are he is even better cared for, more loved and appreciated than some kids that come from a two working parent family.

And back to original post, no it's not acceptable the way Paula Bennett has dealt with this matter, it is a breach of privacy (despite what some of you 'taxpayers' seem to think and claim). Sure they put themselves out there, speaking up about something that was going to effect them somewhat, still doesn't give anyone the right (don't give a sh!t who they are or what their job title is) to go and publicly announce details of their income.

Right think I've said enough.

well said buzzy bee yep im nother one of those people relly people give us single mums a brake its not like we walked into this on purpose and its not easy rasing child on your own. how many post do we get on here about "how will i cope while my hubby is away" haha relly people

]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 08:24:02 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734248&title=paula-bennett#734248 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Bizzy wrote:i dont know wether...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734213&title=paula-bennett#734213 Author: james
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 7:10am

Bizzy wrote:

i dont know wether she should have disclosed the info or not... i do think it a bit petty tho that she would have had to go looking for that info and she did go against the privacy act by disclosing personal information without consent... why should she get treated differently than anyone else... if it were me or anyone else trying to get income details that werent ours we would be refused...(case in point i cant even get my dead mothers bank balance)! Paula bennett said she wanted the whole story known but then deliberatley mislead us by only giving the amount they receive, not what for or a breakdown - apparently one of the mothers has sick children so receives money for that which as i imagine would go directly towards medical costs..should she really be penalised for that? Furthermore what now of the fathers of those children? how do they feel? are they now saying "oh she gets heaps from social welfare why should i pay her any more money?"

I think Paula Bennett seems to have forgotten her roots somewhat and wonder what her reaction would have been if her income had been disclosed so publicly?!

tottaly agree]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 07:10:45 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734213&title=paula-bennett#734213 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : wow $330 a week I don't know...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734204&title=paula-bennett#734204 Author: NovemberMum
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 12:36am

wow $330 a week I don't know how someone would manage on that thats a little under what our mortgage repayments are.

I also don't think $550 is a lot either especially with 3 children I had a look on trademe at rentals in Hamilton and even a 2 bedroom house you are looking at around $250 a week then there is food phone power and I would have to say bye bye to broadband as I would probably only be able to afford dial up at $9.95 a month with 1 phone line

I am fortunate that my husband earns a fairly decent salary would be nice if it was more .but I tell you what give me his income over these ladies any day.

]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 00:36:49 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734204&title=paula-bennett#734204 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : I know a few people on a dpb and...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734188&title=paula-bennett#734188 Author: Tastic
Subject: 27742
Posted: 30 July 2009 at 12:01am

I know a few people on a dpb and none of them get over $400 per week, so Id like to know how these two lady's manage to get so much! and my mate only gets a little over $330 pw with 3 children and she still manages to budget and save for things she needs - studying is one of them!
those two lady's get more then we do in the hand, and that includes aidans disability allowance and wff!
you shouldn't judge people by everything your hear or read. everyone has different circumstances and different reasons for having different things]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2009 00:01:42 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734188&title=paula-bennett#734188 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Edited by BuzzyBee ]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734185&title=paula-bennett#734185 Author: BuzzyBee
Subject: 27742
Posted: 29 July 2009 at 11:43pm

Edited by BuzzyBee]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2009 23:43:05 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734185&title=paula-bennett#734185 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Edited by BuzzyBee ]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734179&title=paula-bennett#734179 Author: BuzzyBee
Subject: 27742
Posted: 29 July 2009 at 11:24pm

Edited by BuzzyBee]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2009 23:24:01 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734179&title=paula-bennett#734179 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Blah blah blah Edited by BuzzyBee...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734175&title=paula-bennett#734175 Author: BuzzyBee
Subject: 27742
Posted: 29 July 2009 at 11:07pm

Blah blah blah

Edited by BuzzyBee]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2009 23:07:27 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734175&title=paula-bennett#734175 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : When you go into bat against "The...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734128&title=paula-bennett#734128 Author: fattartsrock
Subject: 27742
Posted: 29 July 2009 at 9:56pm

When you go into bat against "The Man", you do need to be prepared for your skeletons to come falling out of your closet, be that wages, dark secrets etc.

It might not be right, it might not be fair, but it is what happens. I think neither of them were prepared for that.

I think the point could be that $28 is sweet fanny adams, really, and you can't tell me that there isn't 2 hours in the week she could even clean someones house to make that?

IMHO if she is going to throw her entire future away over $28 a week, then she has no blimmin gumption to get off her backside and have a "hand up" in the first place.

I am refering to Ms $700, who has not come across well in the media well at ALL.

The other lady seems quite nice and very genuine. In fact, she is a regualr poster on TMMB and a very nice lady by all accounts and would probaly make a great nurse.

The reality of the student loans and allowances payments is that you need to support yourself in some other way, as you do not get enough money to live otherwise.

]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2009 21:56:07 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=734128&title=paula-bennett#734128 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Bizzy wrote:I think Paula Bennett...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733857&title=paula-bennett#733857 Author: lilfatty
Subject: 27742
Posted: 29 July 2009 at 5:39pm

Bizzy wrote:

I think Paula Bennett seems to have forgotten her roots somewhat and wonder what her reaction would have been if her income had been disclosed so publicly?!

Her income was publicly disclosed when she got into office .. it was a "rags to riches" story .. also all government mps salaries are public knowledge (and are usually released on the news each year at pay review time)

(just a random side note lol)

Also *i think* on close up last night one of the women said she didnt get a loan because she wasnt able to borrow the living allowance part and her expenses increased while studying, although I could be wrong as the item didnt interest me enough to pay too much attention to it.]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2009 17:39:00 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733857&title=paula-bennett#733857 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : i havnt read all the posts, but...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733854&title=paula-bennett#733854 Author: Candkids
Subject: 27742
Posted: 29 July 2009 at 5:26pm

i havnt read all the posts,
but when i was on the DPB i got a student loan, i didnt get the loan for living costs or student allowance but i still got a student loan to pay my fees i didnt even know about the TIA until my case manager asked how i was paying my tuition & then she told me about it.]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2009 17:26:48 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733854&title=paula-bennett#733854 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : I really think it is a case of...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733852&title=paula-bennett#733852 Author: rachndean
Subject: 27742
Posted: 29 July 2009 at 5:20pm

I really think it is a case of equal rights. It shouldnt come down to whether or not you are on a benefit to be entitled to more allowances to assist in study, it should be income tested no matter who you are.
I also think it is unfair that PB is being slammed as much as she is for fighting back, because from what I read and the interviews I saw BEFORE the information was released she was personally attacked for being a hipocrate because of her background.
I personally am grateful for every bit of assistance the government offers to try and make everyones lives easier, so if they chose to take something away because our country is fighting recession and trying to save money, who am I to publicly strongly disagree?
Once again, firm believer in equal rights!!

]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2009 17:20:53 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733852&title=paula-bennett#733852 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : i think it sucks that if you complain...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733849&title=paula-bennett#733849 Author: lizzle
Subject: 27742
Posted: 29 July 2009 at 5:18pm

i think it sucks that if you complain about something that the government is doing that you don't agree with, thyat your private information is released.

kinda like if i complained about the money being wasted in education and then my salary amount was released.

what ever happened to freedom of speech?

i don't think that this is about benefits at all, it's about the government playing "dirty" trying to discredit people who don't agree with them.]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2009 17:18:44 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733849&title=paula-bennett#733849 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : surfergirl you live in New Zealand,...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733787&title=paula-bennett#733787 Author: caliandjack
Subject: 27742
Posted: 29 July 2009 at 3:53pm

surfergirl you live in New Zealand, where if you stick your head up and complain someone is bound to come along and chop it off, sad but that's the tall poppy culture we live in.

NZ hasn't been a true democracy for some time.]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2009 15:53:38 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733787&title=paula-bennett#733787 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Did the women in question state...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733781&title=paula-bennett#733781 Author: jazzy
Subject: 27742
Posted: 29 July 2009 at 3:46pm

Did the women in question state their income at any stage????
If they did then there is not a problem, however if they did not & the information was got by making phone calls etc, then that is different.

I think there are two issues here
-privacy
-benifits

If my family's income was made public knowledge due to my complaining about something then I would hold my head high as it was earnt by hard work & going without when needed.

So maybe the issue is pride. If these women are doing the traing to better their lives & their kids then they should be proud of that. Or is there more to this??????]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2009 15:46:57 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733781&title=paula-bennett#733781 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Parki wrote:Bizzy - But by...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733767&title=paula-bennett#733767 Author: surfergirl
Subject: 27742
Posted: 29 July 2009 at 3:33pm

Originally posted by Parki Parki wrote:

Bizzy - But by making it public they have opened themsleves up for things like this to happen.

I totally disagree. I do NOT think that if I complain about something (anything!) it gives someone in a position of power and knowledge (Paula Bennett) any right to disclose information about me or my finances.

For example, I could say (but I'm not) that I pay good taxes and I'm unhappy with the state funded services I've recieved during my pregnancy. This does not give anyone the right to access my IRD records, discover how much tax I paid and then release to the media..."Surfergirl cannot complain, she only paid $xxx.xx in taxes and her care has cost $yyy.yy - she should have had a better paying job or paid more tax if she wants to complain"

As far as I'm concerned I know little about the 'issue' (TIA) BUT I do think this is a gross misuse of power and knowledge. I am not impressed!

I (apparently) live in a democratic society and removing peoples right to protest/complain/disagree because of the threat of disclosure is terrible and quite frankly horrifiying. If this was happeneing somewhere else our government would have somethign to say about it.

Edited by surfergirl]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2009 15:33:24 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733767&title=paula-bennett#733767 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : I came across this before Wednesday,...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733732&title=paula-bennett#733732 Author: jazzy
Subject: 27742
Posted: 29 July 2009 at 2:53pm

I came across this before

Wednesday, 29 July 2009 - 4:06am
NZPA political reporters

Wellington, July 29 NZPA - Social Development Minister Paula Bennett says she's ready to talk to two solo mothers at the centre of a privacy row but she isn't going to apologise for releasing details of their welfare payments.

Labour has complained to Privacy Commissioner Marie Schroff about Ms Bennett's action, which was in response to the women publicly criticising the Government's decision to scrap the training incentive allowance (TIA).

Ms Bennett revealed that Natasha Fuller was receiving $715 a week and Jennifer Johnston $554 a week.

Ms Fuller says that without the TIA's $28 a week she won't be able to finish courses and get a job.

I am sure she could find $28 a week to finish her training.
We have to give up things all the time to get something we want.]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2009 14:53:51 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733732&title=paula-bennett#733732 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Febgirl wrote: Parki wrote: They...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733713&title=paula-bennett#733713 Author: kiwisj
Subject: 27742
Posted: 29 July 2009 at 2:41pm

Febgirl wrote:

Parki wrote:

They inform the public how much funding goes into everything else in NZ, why is this different?

My understanding is the same Febgirl. Staff at WINZ/IRD aren't allowed to give that sort of info out to anyone other than the beneficiary. If an MP can make benefit info public then what's stopping them making other information public when they need to "round out an argument."

]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2009 14:41:00 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733713&title=paula-bennett#733713 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : i havent read all the replies...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733710&title=paula-bennett#733710 Author: WRXnKids
Subject: 27742
Posted: 29 July 2009 at 2:39pm

i havent read all the replies but IMO if you are going to go public about something you should expect your background/circumstances to be dug into. I havent really followed it all but i think those details should have been released.

SIT is free on some courses but is only a polytech and everyone should be entitled to a student loan to pay back. Heaps of people move here or distance learn through SIT. Education isnt a right you work for it and i believe entry requirements should be the same for everyone regardless of age, circumstance or race.

I dont agree with how student allowances are worked out on parents or partners income and living costs that you pay back are also a crock it doesnt matter if you have kids or not if you chose to study money is going to be tight. If students can get by on $150 a week to pay for EVERYTHING then surely she can budget on $700 a week or maybe wait until the kids start school to study.

The whole family benefits system is a crock as well im better off not working and collecting $214 a fortnight than going to work and paying childcare and getting nothing because it works out the same amount. Sorry off topic i think but how stupid is that!! With the childcare subsidy we could get (worked out online) we can only afford to put josh in daycare if i dont work and if i do work and dont qualify for a subsidy it would be about half of my wage!

Also my auntie and uncle separated and my cousin is staying with her dad who earns massive amounts a year but my auntie still has to pay child support even tho she is on the bones of her ass and can barely afford to put food on the table.

The whole benefits systems need to be review]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2009 14:39:08 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733710&title=paula-bennett#733710 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Parki wrote: At the end of...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733709&title=paula-bennett#733709 Author: kiwisj
Subject: 27742
Posted: 29 July 2009 at 2:38pm

Parki wrote:

At the end of that day, these two woman drew public attention to the situation initially and as Paula Bennet said she wanted to make sure everyone knew the facts and that it was a rounded out arguement which I totally agree with!

It is easy to sit there and complain that they are not receiving enough benefits and get the sympathy vote etc when everyone thinks they are on a possibly minimal benefit, but I think it sheds a new and more realistic light on the situation now that people can see just how much some people actually get on while on the benefit.

If I was in the position where I was getting a benefit I would have no issue having it public knowledge.
They inform the public how much funding goes into everything else in NZ, why is this different?

OK but what if they were complaining about some other area of goverment spending. Would that mean you're happy to have your income announced to the public?

Paula Bennett says she wanted the argument to be more rounded. Perhaps. But the cynic in me reckons she knew EXACTLY what the public response would be to these women getting a decent chunk of money each week from a benefit. Everyone is outraged and wonders why they get so much for "doing nothing" when we all work so hard and don't get a handout.

And in amongst those feelings, the actual "argument" has been lost and we don't know any more about why the TIA has been cut or why it perhaps shouldn't be. ]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2009 14:38:38 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733709&title=paula-bennett#733709 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Bizzy - But by making it public...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733708&title=paula-bennett#733708 Author: Parki
Subject: 27742
Posted: 29 July 2009 at 2:37pm

Bizzy - But by making it public they have opened themsleves up for things like this to happen.

There are many things I'm sure we all complain about, but you don't make it public without expecting some sort of backlash.

I fully agree with Paula Bennet has done. She has stated facts so that NZ has a full picture and can therefore draw a fair conclusion and there is nothing wrong with that in my opinion.

As above Febgirl - If there is in fact a privacy law that has been breached then that is an issue but as far as I knew there hadn't been? (Could be wrong)

Edited by Parki]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2009 14:37:17 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733708&title=paula-bennett#733708 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Parki wrote: They inform the...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733707&title=paula-bennett#733707 Author: Febgirl
Subject: 27742
Posted: 29 July 2009 at 2:36pm

Parki wrote:

They inform the public how much funding goes into everything else in NZ, why is this different?

Because as I understand it (although I could be wrong) there are privacy laws preventing this sort of information being made public without the express permission of the person in question. By breaking the law, the minister is playing dirty to make a point - and that's the issue I have with this whole thing. ]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2009 14:36:39 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733707&title=paula-bennett#733707 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : but parki they werent just complaining...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733703&title=paula-bennett#733703 Author: Bizzy
Subject: 27742
Posted: 29 July 2009 at 2:32pm

but parki they werent just complaining for them but everyone who will be affected by the TIA changes... and i dont know if they did say oh woe is me! more like bugger, thats put a spanner in the works!

Paula Bennett made it personal, those two women werent personally attacking anyone but rather questioning the changes to the TIA.]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2009 14:32:51 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733703&title=paula-bennett#733703 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : jazzy wrote:I am not really...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733702&title=paula-bennett#733702 Author: Parki
Subject: 27742
Posted: 29 July 2009 at 2:30pm

jazzy wrote:

I am not really interested how much people get on benifits, BUT when it is thrown in my face I will have my say. I would love to get $700 a week for staying home, but I don't. I don't get money when my kids are sick & have on going issues, my DH is studing & working full time, & we pay for it all ourselves & will keep paying.

Benifits are always going to be a hot topic.

100% agreed.]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2009 14:30:36 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733702&title=paula-bennett#733702 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Febgirl wrote: Public money...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733699&title=paula-bennett#733699 Author: Parki
Subject: 27742
Posted: 29 July 2009 at 2:27pm

Febgirl wrote:

[QUOTE=Parki]
Public money should equal public knowledge.

I don't believe individual benefits received counts as 'public money' in this context. /QUOTE]

Well, it is 'public money' in this case.
It is money generated by the tax payer (The public) and paid by the Government. It is not money they have 'earnt' personally.

At the end of that day, these two woman drew public attention to the situation initially and as Paula Bennet said she wanted to make sure everyone knew the facts and that it was a rounded out arguement which I totally agree with!

It is easy to sit there and complain that they are not receiving enough benefits and get the sympathy vote etc when everyone thinks they are on a possibly minimal benefit, but I think it sheds a new and more realistic light on the situation now that people can see just how much some people actually get on while on the benefit.

If I was in the position where I was getting a benefit I would have no issue having it public knowledge.
They inform the public how much funding goes into everything else in NZ, why is this different?

]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2009 14:27:43 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733699&title=paula-bennett#733699 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : I am not really interested how...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733695&title=paula-bennett#733695 Author: jazzy
Subject: 27742
Posted: 29 July 2009 at 2:25pm

I am not really interested how much people get on benifits, BUT when it is thrown in my face I will have my say. I would love to get $700 a week for staying home, but I don't. I don't get money when my kids are sick & have on going issues, my DH is studing & working full time, & we pay for it all ourselves & will keep paying.

Benifits are always going to be a hot topic.
]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2009 14:25:46 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733695&title=paula-bennett#733695 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : Peanut wrote:I can't understand...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733693&title=paula-bennett#733693 Author: kiwisj
Subject: 27742
Posted: 29 July 2009 at 2:25pm

Peanut wrote:

I can't understand why they shouldn't have to get a loan. much like everyone else has too - I want a journalist to ask them that question and see what their response to that it as haven't heard that question being asked. I think unfortunately with Paul Bennett realeasing the info the actually core problem is not being addressed, just the privacy issue when I would like to hear some responses on the core issue.

I agree with you Peanut, that's why I think it's a shame Paula Bennett released the info because now the issue has become "privacy" rather than the TIA.

I'm not sure why they can't get loans either - especially when one of the justifications for having student loans (vs free tertiary education) is that people will be able to pay them off because they will go into well-paying jobs. But as I said before, I'm not sure of the ins and outs of the TIA and whether it's additional to current benefits and whether there are any strings attached.]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2009 14:25:40 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733693&title=paula-bennett#733693 <![CDATA[Paula Bennett : ah see now we are all jumping...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733689&title=paula-bennett#733689 Author: Bizzy
Subject: 27742
Posted: 29 July 2009 at 2:23pm

ah see now we are all jumping to conclusions... we are assuming that she got a laptop for free, not that she might have saved and budgeted... or is that not something that beneficiaries do?! (

)

i dont know anything about the TIA but do know that being able to question our government without recriminations and being treated fairly and equally were two things i thought we could do as a nation.

Its not an us and them thing going on... there are many entitlements out there - childcare, accomodation, funeral grants, student loans, tax rebates, WFF, Parental tax credit, paid maternity leave etc... at some stage in our lives we might have to take advantage of one or some of these...so how would you feel if you were told you couldnt and when you questioned why your income was broadcast to the whole country?

oh and as an aside - must say renee i have never seen you so eloquent before !

]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2009 14:23:25 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=27742&PID=733689&title=paula-bennett#733689