Wellington nurse to stand for District Health Board

Media release: Health First
1 August, 2013

Wellington Hospital staff nurse Grant Brookes today announced he will stand for election to the Capital & Coast District Health Board on a “Health First” ticket. Brookes has worked for Capital and Coast DHB for 11years and is currently a member of the New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO) board of directors. He is endorsed in his bid by the NZNO Greater Wellington Regional Council.

Health First goals for the health of the district are putting the “care” back into aged care; no cuts, no privatisation; local democracy, not remote bureaucracy; placing the ambulance at the top of the cliff; and Whānau Ora – family well-being for all.

“I will advocate for the health of low-income, migrant, Pasifika and Māori communities, who together make up the disadvantaged majority. Although standing for Health First, I am also privileged to carry the public endorsement of the MANA Movement.”

“Moves towards health equality requires effort both outside and inside the boardroom, so I will support staff and community groups taking action for health, Brookes says.

Brookes was spurred to stand by the need to maintain a nursing voice on the District Health Board. As reported in the Kapi-Mana News this week, the sole nurse on the current Capital and Coast Board is standing down. Margaret Faulkner cited frustration at the level of ministerial control over Board affairs for her decision not to seek re-election.

“I have been able to talk in-depth with Ms Faulkner and I understand her frustration. The law as it stands gives the Minister of Health a lot of say. It is up to the majority of Board members to make sure DHB elections aren’t mere window dressing for government cuts.”

“If elected I hope to be part of a new Board, which can chart a fresh direction,” Brookes says.

ENDS

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