MATERNITY HOMES.

Otaki Mail, Volume 26, 14 July 1919, Page 3

MATERNITY HOMES.

HOSPITAL BOARD'S "HARDY PERENNIALS." The much-vexed question of the establishment of a maternity home, which Dr. Whitaker referred to as the Board's "hardy perennial," was again discussed at some length by the Palmerston North Hospital and Charitable Aid Board ut its meeting on Thursday last. The question was introduced by Mrs Z. Gill, who moved in accordance with

notice of motion, "That a committee immediately bo set up to secure by rent, lease or purchase a suitable property to be converted into a maternity homo for the use of maternity patients in the Palmerston North Hospital district, and that all resolutions re maternity homes are hereby rescinded." Mrs Gill urged that .the matter was one that should not be delayed. A small building with from 10. to 12 beds was all that was required at present, and when a bigger institution was required the home could bo used as a rest home or convalescents' hospital. Mrs Gill emphasised the jioint that a great many people throughout the district had protested against tho maternity home being in the hospital grounds. Mr Vincent seconded the motion pro forma. i

Dr. Whitaker said if a mntornity home was erected in Palmerston North other centres would ask for similar institutions. He strongly deprecated the action of the Minister in regard to the question.

Mr Bramwell said there was no use playing with the question—it was piratically certain that the home would never be erected in the hospital grounds. He urged that they should persist in its endeavour to get a St. Helens hospital, properly equipped, which was what was wanted. ' After considerable discussion, an amendment, moved by Mr Brumv.ell and seconded by Mr Vincent, was curried. It was to the effect that all resolutions appearing on the minutes re the maternity home be rescinded, and that the Government be again urged to erect a St. Helens home in Palmerston North.