Good health stories leave bitter taste for Nats

The more that Labour invests in health, the more bitter National's criticism becomes, Health Minister Pete Hodgson said today.

"The Labour-led government has put in a major new boost for child oral health," Pete Hodgson said. "We are setting up new community clinics. The plan is rolling out around the country.

"When we announced the new initiative this morning, we carefully avoided mentioning the complete rundown of dental health services in the 1990s - a shambles which we inherited and which is taking a long time to put right.

"Tony Ryall should deal with his anger and put petty politics aside for once. This is a major investment in services for young people. It's not waffle. It's not just a report. It's real money, for real services, to improve what is a real problem.

"Instead of just criticising, he should explain what his party would do about it. He should explain how National would improve health services while cutting funding, as his party promised at the last election."

ENDS

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