30 July 2008 Media Statement

Wednesday 30 July 2008

Ministers welcome resumption of services at Kenepuru

Health Minister David Cunliffe and Mana MP Luamanuvao Winnie Laban welcomed Capital and Coast District Health Board’s (C&C DHB) decision to restore around the clock services at Kenepuru Accident & Medical Clinic.

Health Minister David Cunliffe said it was a vital service and restoring it to 24/7 status had been a priority.

Winnie Laban said the local community reacted strongly as this is a service utilised by many of our people, and particularly our grass root communities who often experience health disparities.

"When I learnt of this decision, I immediately contacted Health Minister David Cunliffe who gave me his assurance that the Ministry of Health and C&C DHB were working together to give restoration of full services at Kenepuru their urgent attention.

"I have been actively working with both the Health Minister and C&C DHB to ensure that this issue remained high on the agenda.

"It was important that the solution to restoring 24 hour services was long term and sustainable. I am extremely pleased that the necessary arrangements have now been put in place to ensure that these services are available to our community.

"Access to 24 hour accident and medical services at Kenepuru is vital to both our local area and region. It is great to see that the voices of the many diverse communities in the area have been heard,” Laban said.

The Board announced today that a 24/7 service will resume at Kenepuru from 4 August.

ENDS

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