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Thousands march in Oamaru to protest cut-backs

Author
Alicia Burrow,
Publish Date
Sun, 5 Jul 2015, 1:01PM
(Source: Melanie Tavendale)
(Source: Melanie Tavendale)

Thousands march in Oamaru to protest cut-backs

Author
Alicia Burrow,
Publish Date
Sun, 5 Jul 2015, 1:01PM

UPDATED 4.00pm: Thousands have shown their support for the local hospital in Oamaru today.

A march was held to protest proposed funding cuts that will see residents forced to travel to Dunedin for specialist care.

Waitaki District Councillor Melanie Tavendale said the community has fought to keep local health services before, and will continue to fight this time around.

Ms Tavendale says the added distance splits up families at times when they most need each other.

She believes that "losing hospital services loses some of the heart."

Waitaki mayor Gary Kircher also said he is very pleased at the Oamaru community's support at today's march against funding cuts to the local hospital.

He said the estimated 2500 people ranging from families to the elderly sends a message about the community's attitude to the local health service.

Mr Kircher said they are very passionate about the primary level hospital, and that even though it's a basic service, they don't want any further cuts.

He said expecting residents to go to Dunedin for specialist care due to funding cuts is unacceptable.

 

 

 

 

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