Labour spokesperson Ayesha Verrall has welcomed the reinstatement of Health New Zealand's board after a period of turmoil under commissioner Lester Levy.
A destructive and secretive tenure has come to an end with Labour calling for change last week. Levy, appointed by National leader Christopher Luxon, was criticised for cutting over 3,000 jobs and failing to deliver a turnaround plan. He also removed benefits from new parents before backtracking on the decision. Additionally, Levy's lack of transparency and data led to hiring freezes at hospitals and significant cuts to Health NZ's workforce.
The reinstatement is seen as an opportunity to stop the cuts and allow the healthcare system to run smoothly. Verrall has called for this change and Labour hopes that a new board will be able to deliver the necessary improvements to New Zealand's health services.