Presbytery Concerned At Tokanui Conditions

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30823, 7 August 1965, Page 24

Presbytery Concerned At Tokanui Conditions

(New Zealand Press Association*

HAMILTON, Aug. 6. The Waikato Presbytery has told the Government it is concerned about Tokanui Hospital. It has asked the Government to give assurances that definite and effective steps will be taken soon to remedy the poor conditions there. The Presbytery says it is appalled to learn that four doctors are faced with the staggering task of treating more than 1000 patients; that there are 160 children as patients but no wards specifically designed for them; that there is serious over-crowding in the wards, many of which can now only be called sub-

standard: and that there is a general shortage of staff and a deplorable lack of modern facilities. Under such conditions, adequate treatment is obviously impassible, says the presbytery. “Consideration has been given to other ways in which the Church may support those who are treating the mentally ill. Younger members planning their careers could be faced with the needs and challenge of this field of work. “Further action will be taken in the light of whatever reply is received from the Government,” says the presbytery.