Independent health assessment still needed on TPPA
The New Zealand Medical Association Chair Dr Stephen Child (NZMA) is pleased the Government appears to have listened to many of the concerns raised by the health sector in reaching a deal on the Trans Pacific Partnership.
“From what we have seen so far, the fears about what might happen with pharmaceuticals appear not to have been realised,” says Dr Child. “We understand that New Zealand’s existing measures will be adequate to meet the provisions put in place to protect the development of biologic medicines. There is no change to New Zealand’s standard 20-year patent period, and efficient processes in New Zealand mean that it is unlikely there will be many applications to extend patent terms.
“There are also provisions that allows the Government to rule out ISDS challenges over tobacco control measures.
“However, we still need to see the details of the agreement, and a careful, thorough analysis is needed. There is a lot more to learn—and, to understand fully its impact on health, we still believe that an independent Health Impact Analysis is needed.”
ENDS

Gordon Campbell: On How US Courts Are Helping Donald Trump Steal The Mid-Terms
NZ National Party: Judith Collins’ Valedictory Speech
Forest And Bird: Government Biodiversity Credit Scheme Welcomed As Opportunity For Restoration
Office of the Ombudsman: Ombudsman Publishes Findings On Ministry Of Education Sensitive Claims Scheme
Nelson City Council: Mayor Welcomes Auditor-General Decision Not To Prosecute Councillor
Johnnie Freeland: Ko Tātou Tātou - Climate Action In Aotearoa Begins With Relationship
Zero Waste Network Aotearoa: Container Return Scheme Bill Would Double Recycling Rates And Put Money Back In Households

