Media statement
For immediate release
Thursday, 30 March 2006
Dunne concerned at community lab moves
United Future leader and Ohariu-Belmont MP, Peter Dunne, is concerned at moves by the region's two district health
boards to take over the community laboratory services that have been run by private providers for the past 70-odd years.
"I'm concerned that a takeover by the state agencies of these functions will result in a less adequate service to my
constituents; indeed the people of the whole region.
"I fail to see how the DHB's, which are constantly reporting financial and operational problems, can suddenly provide a
better service than the one we have received for decades.
"Does this mean that people will have to travel great distances to queue at hospitals for their blood or other tests
when at present they can go to their local community laboratory for an excellent service?
"I want the DHB's to front up to the people of Wellington and tell them how this proposed change, which could result in
the loss of 100 jobs among pathologists, scientists and technicians, will improve the service currently being offered,"
said Mr Dunne.
ENDS