Mandatory Vaccinations

The results are out. 86% of Australians want childhood vaccination to be compulsory. I do not find these statistics a shock. Its common sense. Why put ALL children at risk? Only 10% are opposed with the other 4% undecided. Therefore, it is overwhelming clear of Australia’s stance on this issue. The below statistic is from the USA, signifying that this is a global issue that needs to be addressed. 

Once again, I believe that the law should exist to suit and change towards the expectations of society. There is no use having laws that were valid hundreds of years ago, as we have all changed as a nation, and therefore, should be governed under contemporary and relevant laws that are appropriate and match our societies’ inherent expectations and moral views/standpoints. Such that, those who refuse to vaccinate their children; should be prosecuted (introduction of laws to make vaccinations in children compulsory). The video below discusses the overall topic discussed within this blog post on whether vaccinations should be mandatory, highlighting some key points.

Therefore, I strongly believe that we should enact news laws to make it compulsory for ALL children to have vaccinations. There is no other way. No argument which could justify otherwise. I just don’t understand who that 10% are and what there reasoning is behind their ludicrous views. This follows successful policy changes and campaigns that have been implemented (e.g. “No Jab, No Play" campaign) which ensured that all kids attending childcare are fully vaccinated. I think that this was and is a fantastic initiative, and is an important step towards full implementation and introduction of these reform measures. I believe that the next step is undoubtably, law reform.

At the end of the day, all this is about is protecting the next generation; our next leaders of our great nation. It is preventing harmful diseases and illnesses from ever occurring. I do not understand why this is an issue. Why we would need to be discussing this. It is a no brainer and clear common sense. This is not a political debate. It is pure common sense. I just don't get it. Something needs to change. I am glad that we are working as a nation to eradicate these immoral views and take a stand towards protecting all children. Another big issue is that some babies are too young to get vaccinated, and thus, those children who are older (old enough to be vaccinated) and their parents decided against it, is directly putting others at risk. It is selfish. All children deserve the right to be vaccinated and shouldn't be dictated by uninformed or ill parents. The below video showcases a key debate on this issue and provides many arguments for and against this issue.

What do you think?

Reference for Text:

http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/galaxy-poll-86-per-cent-of-australians-want-childhood-vaccination-to-be-compulsory/story-fni0cx12-1227290503812?sv=dbb0697ac274f0ee35b497dbd921be7a 

http://www.chainofprotection.org/vaccinations/ 

Reference for Image:

http://www.ebola.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Measles_Vaccines_Required-679x382.jpg

http://www.gannett-cdn.com/-mm-/34f3c12e46e775b6bc7e523d797ba40d553715a7/r=540&c=540x304/http/videos.usatoday.net/Brightcove2/29906170001/2015/02/29906170001_4029717216001_video-still-for-video-4029675097001.jpg

Reference for Youtube Videos:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TIHl2H5PtUw

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jAQzqyXxk3w

Mobile Phone Usage whilst Driving

This is always a current topic within the law; and something that I have been asked about many times; about what the relevant laws and regulations are, in terms of using a mobile phone whilst driving; and exactly what the relevant rules and legislation are; and my opinion on the matter. 

Under regulation 300 of the Road Rules Act (NSW) of 2014, the use of a mobile phone whilst driving is actually permitted, if the phone is secured in a mounting device affixed to the vehicle (shown in the image below). If this is done, then the person is legally allowed to make or receive phone calls (via bluetooth), perform audio functions or even as a GPS. Such that the person must not touch the phone at all; or have it resting on a part of their body during the time they are driving. 

I think that this is a reasonable rule; as if you have the phone in your hand; and not in the mounting device, it can cause immediate distractions, placing not only you at risk, but everyone else in the road. Therefore, I believe that it is vital and very important to follow this rule as it is directly in place to protect the lives of everyone on the road. Obviously, the incorrect usage of mobile phone whilst driving, represents negligence and carelessness, as the driver would be heavily distracted; not exercising the right amount of care or attention which would be reasonably expected whilst driving.

However, the part of the law that I do not agree with, is that if you are on your provisional license (P1 or learners) you are NOT to have your phone on at all whatsoever, whilst driving. I believe that P plate drivers should be treated in the same regard as other drivers on the road; seeing as they share the road with everyone else and should be entitled to the same rulings. This is because, if used correctly, the phone is not touched nor does it play a role in distracting the driver completely off the road, if it is in a mounting device. Until this changes, it is important that everyone on the road follows the rules to prevent the likelihood of mobile phones playing a part in accidents whilst driving.

Reference for Text:

http://www5.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/nsw/consol_reg/rr2014104/s300.html

Reference for Images:

http://i1-news.softpedia-static.com/images/news2/Why-You-Shouldn-039-t-Use-A-Mobile-Phone-While-Driving-2220

http://thumbs.ebaystatic.com/images/g/l48AAOSwEK9Tw0Lr/s-l225.jpg
http://net4surf.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Avoid-Mobile.jpg