Ken Shirley Media Release -- Health

Mr Shirley, who is also ACT’s health spokesman, was commentating on an answer to a Parliamentary question in which Health Minister Annette King said she could not provide an answer because her Ministry did not hold information on the number of operating theatres in state-owned institutions.

“It is also clear she does not know the number of theatres available in our private hospitals either,” Mr Shirley said.

“No wonder the health system is struggling to cope with huge waiting lists and staff shortages when the Minister is in the dark about her own portfolio,” Mr Shirley said

“It defies all logic as to how Ms King can even attempt to persuade New Zealanders that her health reforms will lead to a more efficient health system, when she does not know the extent of essential existing facilities such as operating theatres.”

Mr Shirley said the Minister was “anaesthetised” by her own ideology.

Ends.

© Scoop Media