REPLY TO CRITIC

Hokitika Guardian, 22 April 1932, Page 6

REPLY TO CRITIC

AUCKLAND HOSPITAL BOARD. (By Telegraph —Ber Brest Association) AUCKLAND, April 22. “I regret exceedingly that Mr A. S. Richards has seen fit to make such a statement regarding the Auckland Hospital,” said Mr Wallace (Chairman ol the Board) in referring to Mr Richards (Roskill) allegations in the House last night. The Hoard’s position is difficult enough at present and such statements only help to create a spirit of unrest, and annoyance amongst the staff.

“We have fought for years for an ■eight lum:' day and we got it eventually, and we stuck to it except in special cases and when nurses are undertaking special theatre training. In my opinion nurses who are not willing to undertake extra duties when needed, are not worthy to he members of the noble . profession, and not "worth their salt as nurses. During the epidemic of 1918 when half the hospital staff was down, we had nurses volunteering for duty when they were scarcely able to move about. The same spirit prevails to-dav.”

Mr Wallace said no complaints had been received about, the food, though the nurses had ample opportunity to make representations if they desired. He also stated that Mr Richards’ daughter was nofc a qualified Sister, hut a loupth.year probationer.