NZ News: Medical Council leadership shake-up and financial warnings issued
Health Minister Simeon Brown’s decision to replace leadership at the Medical Council has raised concerns among doctors about political interference. In other news, the government has issued warnings to several firms over money laundering rules, and climate experts are predicting a record-breaking El Niño event later this year.
Doctors are warning that patient safety could be at risk following a leadership shake-up at the Medical Council, the body responsible for regulating the medical profession. Health Minister Simeon Brown declined to reappoint the council’s chair and deputy chair, leading to accusations of an "ideological agenda" and political interference in the health sector.
The Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) has issued formal warnings to six law firms and one real estate agency. The move is part of a crackdown on anti-money laundering laws. The DIA found these companies were not following the required rules during a recent review of the industry.
The Ministry of Education is under scrutiny for hiring an Australian company to rewrite New Zealand’s school curriculum. Local companies were not given the chance to bid for the work because the Ministry was already working with the firm, Learning First.
Climate scientists from Earth Sciences New Zealand (ESNZ) warn that an "unprecedented" El Niño could develop later this year. El Niño is a climate pattern caused by warming sea temperatures that can significantly change weather. This upcoming event has the potential to be one of the strongest ever recorded.
A waste disposal company is asking for "fast-track" government approval to build a controversial landfill in Dome Valley, north of Auckland. The project has faced legal delays, but the company says it is needed because the current Redvale landfill is set to close by 2028.
Emergency officials are researching the dangers of a landslide-triggered tsunami in Milford Sound. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) told MPs that survival rates are currently very low if such an event occurs, and they are looking for ways to improve safety in the area.
In the agricultural sector, North Island wool prices have reached their highest level in 30 years at a recent auction in Napier. A survey by Rabobank shows that sheep and beef farmers are feeling more positive about the industry, though fruit and vegetable growers remain less confident due to rising costs.
For more on these stories and other news, visit the app’s News section. Read about the SPCA’s search for foster homes for farm animals and reports on leaked international political agreements.