2 November 2000

Greens call for full inquiry into Parry's treatment of Northland women

Green Party MP Sue Bradford this morning called for a full and independent inquiry into the treatment given to Northland women by disgraced gynaecologist Graham Parry.

Mr Parry was today found guilty of disgraceful conduct over his treatment of Bay Of Islands woman, Colleen Poutsma, who is now dying of cervical cancer.

"Having met with some of the affected women at the centre of this scandal in Whangarei this morning I am convinced that nothing other than a full public inquiry is needed to uncover exactly how many women have been affected - and to what extent - by Mr Parry's appalling treatment of Northland women," said Ms Bradford.

Ms Bradford said she believed the victims of Mr Parry's poor treatment may be widespread, with many currently unidentified.

"Along with a full inquiry the Green Party want to see Mr Parry held accountable for his actions, we want to see the affected women become immediately eligible for legal aid and also to be compensated fully for their suffering."

Ms Bradford said the scale of the problem was strikingly similar to the Gisborne Cervical Screening fiasco involving retired pathologist Michael Bottrill, and that a similar investigation was obviously needed.

"A full inquiry must be launched to not only investigate the scale of Mr Parry's terrible treatment but to also look at the failure of the system that has allowed this to occur for as long as it has," said Ms Bradford.

"The Green Party would like to see the role of Northland Health, Whangarei Hospital, ACC and various medical bodies held up to thorough scrutiny in relation to this issue.

"Mr Parry has been practicing in Northland for many years and the affects of his terrible treatment may be extremely widespread throughout this community. A full inquiry is the only way we are ever going to uncover the full extent of the harm caused by this man," said Ms Bradford.

Sue Bradford MP: 025 243 4239 Jonathan Hill (press secretary): 04 470 6719, 021 440 090

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