HEALTH WORKERS TO OBSERVE TWO MINUTES' SILENCE

People who work in the Canterbury Health System will have the opportunity to observe two minutes' silence at 12:51pm today - the time the quake struck on Tuesday 22 February 2011.

Chief executive David Meates said thousands of people who worked right across the health system would have the opportunity to take two minutes out of their day to reflect on the enormity of what has happened and what the future holds.

"Tragically, we have lost valued members of our health community; some staff have lost loved ones, while others have been seriously injured and many have lost their homes and livelihoods.

"I have been humbled by the professionalism and altruism of those who work in health. It's reinforced to me that working in health is more than a job - it's a calling. I've been incredibly proud of the way
people have risen to the challenges they've faced and continue to go above and beyond the call of duty.

"I encourage the health 'family' of Canterbury to take time out to observe two minutes' silence today - and continue to support each other over the coming weeks and months.

"Together you have all risen to meet the immediate challenges and we know the high demand for health services will continue for some time yet," David Meates said.

"Whether you work in a hospital setting, primary care, aged care, mental health, public health or drive an ambulance - you have all come together and saved lives and provided excellent care to the people of
Christchurch and I would like to personally thank you for your efforts," David Meates said.

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