Clare Curran
MP for Dunedin South

30 January 2009 Media Statement

Dunedin South MP questions Ryall’s judgement and motivation in seeking to sack Otago DHB Chair

Dunedin South MP Clare Curran today expressed dismay at the events unfolding at the Otago District Health Board, and questioned Health Minister Tony Ryall’s judgement and motivation in seeking to sack Board Chair Richard Thomson.

“Public accountability is important, but there is a difference between accountability and blame,” she said.

“Witch hunting and political reprisal is not a good look for a new minister seeking public credability and the respect of the health sector”.

There are two important issues behind this issue, Curran says.

“The first is democracy - Tony Ryall talks about loss of public confidence in the District Health Board, and the need for accountability.

“And yet, Richard Thomson was the second highest polling candidate in the 2007 local body elections. This was after the nearly $17 million dollar fraud at the Otago District Health Board had been made public.

“This high polling compares with eight letters to the editor in the Otago Daily Times over recent months calling for “heads to roll” on the issue.

“It seems to me that the vast majority of Otago voters expressed their views on this issue and the numbers just don’t stack up Mr Ryall”.

“The second issue is fairness. New Zealanders puts great stock in fairness and process. It greatly concerns me that this National Government appears to be determined to find reason to blame an individual”.

“Mr Ryall’s motivation and his judgement are under scrutiny here, rather than Mr Thomson’s record,” said Curran.

ENDS

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