The New Zealand Nurses Organisation Dunedin delegate, Linda Smillie, has called on all members to join the “no cuts” march scheduled for this Saturday. According to Smillie, any reductions in hospital resources will result in substandard care, longer wait times in the emergency department, and delays in necessary surgeries.
Recent reports have revealed that Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora (HNZ) is considering various cuts and changes to the construction plans for the new Dunedin hospital, which has yet to begin construction.
The protest is set to kick off at noon on Saturday from the University of Otago faculty of dentistry and will make its way to the Octagon, led by Mayor Jules Radich and city councillors. Nurses will be joined by junior doctors in voicing their concerns.
Specialty Trainees of NZ, a union representing junior doctors, have expressed interest in participating in the march after being informed of the event. Richard Thomson, a key organizer behind previous healthcare campaigns in Dunedin, emphasized the importance of the protest and expected a strong turnout.
The proposed changes for the new hospital include relocating short-stay beds from the ED to acute wards, reducing the number of operating theatres, and other modifications. HNZ commissioner Lester Levy has indicated that all aspects of the new hospital and the healthcare system are currently under review.
Despite the uncertainties surrounding the future of the new hospital, community leaders and activists are determined to make their voices heard. The call for transparency and accountability from Health Minister Dr. Shane Reti has been echoed by many, urging him to address concerns directly with the residents of Dunedin.
As the protest gains momentum, Mayor Jules Radich and city councillors have joined in solidarity by releasing a new rally song titled “Build our Hospital.” The song, a revamped version of a popular Highlanders anthem, aims to rally support for the Hospital Cuts Hurt campaign.
With the community united in their fight against healthcare cuts, the march in Dunedin signifies a growing movement for change and accountability in the healthcare system.
