MINISTER’S SYMPATHY WITH HOSPITAL NURSES

Manawatu Times, Volume LIV, Issue 6809, 12 January 1929, Page 8

MINISTER’S SYMPATHY WITH HOSPITAL NURSES

BETTER WORKING CONDITIONS. Per Press Association. CHRISTCHURCH, Last Night. That the country was now in ft sound economic position, that confidence was evident in the business community and that a noto of optimism regarding futuro prosperity was being sounded, were tho views expressed this morning by the lion. A. J. Stallworthy, Minister of Health, who is in Christchurch for a few days, visiting relatives.

The Ministor said that in touring round the country, one was at onoo cognisant of a change in the atmosphere in business and farming circles and the depression of tho past year or so had given way to a new expansion and feeling of confidence since tho election.

There was no doubt, he said, that the people had wanted a change and that they wero looking to the United party to improve and stabilise conditions. Mr. Stallworthy was emphatic in his declaration that in the administration of his department, he would adopt a humanitarian policy. He would consider the human element and always attempt to be fair and just in all matters. He was a firm advocate and follower of the late Mr. Seddon’s humanitarian policy. The Minister was very sympathetic when approached on tho question of the improvement of tho working conditions of nurses. “Nursing is an honourable profession, and I shall use my influence to mako it as attractivo as possible in order to make it an inducement to the young womanhood of the countrj’’,” he said. “Cases havo come to my knowledge of nurses working for such long hours and under such ardous conditions that both the nurses themselves and their patients aro prejudiced. I realise that the question is largely a domestic one with local hospital hoards and do not wish to interfere but I shall certainly take steps to ensure an improvement in working conditions for nurses.’’ He was fully aware of tho seriousness of unemployment in New Zealand and said that tho government would treat the question as one of the most urgent and important matters coming before the party. Other matters, embracing living conditions, housing, otc., were discussed by tho Minister, who said legislation was being prepared for theso matters. Already there was more money about and a big improvement in economic affairs was evident.