The Green Party calls for investment in the nation's healthcare.
The Royal Commission of Inquiry into the Covid-19 Response has underscored the need for a robust health system to tackle future pandemics. According to Hūhana Lyndon, Green Party Health Spokesperson, "the Commissioner's report highlights glaring gaps in our pandemic response, particularly when it comes to Māori communities." The report notes that cutting back on public health services while a pandemic remains possible is a concerning development.
The Green Party urges the Government to prioritize the health of its people and provide adequate resourcing for a more resilient healthcare system. Lyndon emphasizes that investing in public health is crucial, especially when it comes to vulnerable communities such as Māori, Pasifika, immunocompromised individuals, disabled people, the elderly, and young people.
The report's findings have sparked concerns over the Government's decision to slash jobs in public health. The Green Party maintains that this approach will only exacerbate existing inequities and leave the nation ill-prepared for future pandemics. As Lyndon points out, "the Government must begin to build an equitable health system that prioritizes our most vulnerable communities."