AN ACCIDENT WARD AT LYTTELTON.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 755, 24 October 1870, Page 2

AN ACCIDENT WARD AT LYTTELTON.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE STAR. Sir, —lv the name of humanity I must protest against the unpardonable neglect exhibited by the Government in not ere this providing an accident ward in Lyttelton. I am led to make these remarks by observing in the Lyttelton Times of this morning that a seaman on board the barque William Ackers, on Saturda\ last, is reported to have fallen from aloft, and sustained such injuries as rendered him insensible. There b ing no accident ward in Lyttelton, the man, although sensible when brought ashore from the barque, was obliged to be kept in the boat until a doctor could be obtained ; it appears he was then, by Dr Donald's direction, taken to the Railway Station, and ultimately sent to the Christchurch Hospital. I ueed scarcely remind you that the public hare before this drawn attention to the absolute necessity of there being at least an accident ward in Lyttelton ; aud in a busy port like this is at this time of the year, where accidents are likely to be numerous, it is out of the question altogether to force any injured man to have to rely upon the charity of strangers for attention (not to speak of the danger arising from want of immediate proper attendance) until an opportunity can be found for the unfortunate to be sent to the Christchurch Hospital to receive surgical attention. I may express myself somewhat forcibly on this subject, but not more than' its importance deserves ; and I consider that mariners trading to the port of Lyttelton (without mentioning the inhabitants) have at least a right to expect thar, when an accident does occur, speedy aud efficient surgical attendance and necessaries will be provided by the Government Your obedient servant, MICHAEL HART. Christchurch, Oct. 24,1870.