Letters to the Editor, The Herald

POOR POLITICAL HEALTH

by Robert Gregg

Is there a trend emerging here on health? In safe Labor seats hospitals are being run down to the point of disgrace.

The State Government blames the Feds. The Feds blame the State - but really we are all to blame.

While ever we allow ourselves to be represented in Parliament by politicians with big majorities we will watch our loved ones die through poor health services.

Two hospitals are in the news this week - The Mater and Nepean, both in blue ribbon Labor Party seats where the Labor Party can afford to have some supporters die off without affecting majorities or their futures.

I wonder just how much equipment we could have purchased with the money spent on the News Year's eve bash in Sydney Harbour.

And wasn't it great to see so many of the Labor Party faithful and hangers on enjoying the fully catered parties in prime positions?

The Labor Party used to represent the man in the street - it is now run by the chardonnay set who don't give a thought about people suffering in the public hospital system.

As a recently-resigned ALP member, let me say how sad it is to see this party lose its direction and be so devoid of strong parliamentary members. With the exception of Joel Fitzgibbon, I feel the people of the lower Hunter face many years of being represented by people more skilled at branch recruitment then representing their electorates with a strong and viable voice.

I joined the ALP in 1970 when I was just 16 years old. After 30 years it seems the party has become unrecognisable.

So Hunter residents - if you want better hospitals and services make your electorates marginal. Force the Parties to field candidates qualified to represent you, or else live by the old saying: you get the politicians you deserve.