4th February 2000

Media Release

Grey Power congratulates the Government on its forthright action in commencing to implement the policies contained in the “ Focus on Patients “ document which detailed the Labour policy on health.

The mix of government appointed Health Board members with a majority of publicly elected members effectively means that the public will be able select their representatives who will be supported by the government members appointed for their special skills .

The further establishment of Primary Health Advisory committees and a Hospital committee with the responsibility of providing for the Health Board the effective and efficient management of community care and hospital based care is welcomed .

The representation of non government organisations as well as medical practitioners and specialists on these two committees will greatly enhance the ability of these committees to give practical and accurate advice to the Board .

Grey Power has always believed that the public health system would be greatly enhanced if there was meaningful consultation . We see this announcement as an indication that the government does truly wish to involve the expertise that is available to it in the public arena.

We wholeheartedly applaud this move and will take keen interest in its detailed implementation.

Ends

G.D.Stairmand ,
Health spokesperson for Health

contact 03 351 3096

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