Best wishes extended to departing Commissioner

Media release

Tuesday 19 June 2007

Mental Health Commission extends best wishes to departing Commissioner

The Mental Health Commission has thanked departing Commissioner Mary O’Hagan for her dedicated contribution to its work since 2000.

Mental Health Commissioner Mary O’Hagan has written to Health Minister Pete Hodgson informing him of her resignation from the Mental Health Commission on 27 July, says Chair Commissioner. Ruth Harrison.

Since her appointment in 2000, the Commission, the mental health sector and people who use services have benefited from her leadership because of the depth of understanding that Mary had gained as a consultant and consumer in the field of mental health and disability issues, Ruth Harrison said.

“Her commitment to ensuring that service users are treated with respect and equality in mental health services, and are able to develop their personal resourcefulness, has been admirable.

“Mary has been working in the mental health sector for over 20 years, as an advocate and consultant in New Zealand and overseas. She is returning to her consultancy work. Her commitment to improving the quality of mental health services, particularly in the areas of anti-discrimination and recovery-oriented services, has helped the Commission to make a difference for service users.

“We thank Mary, know that she won’t be lost from the sector, and wish her well for the future,” Ruth Harrison said.

ENDS

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