COMMUNICATIONS

CDHB Welcomes Ngai Tahu Representative

Canterbury District Health Board members today formally introduced Ngai Tahu representative Dr Matea Gillies as an observer to the Board.

Following a karakia lead by Board kaumatua Maurice Gray, the Board chair Syd Bradley warmly welcomed Dr Gillies saying that “having a Ngai Tahu perspective would be a considerable advantage to the Board as it dealt with one of the most difficult problems facing New Zealand health authorities – the over-representation of Maori in all areas of health need.”

“Through Dr Gillies, we hope to draw on the collective wisdom of Ngai Tahu about issues facing Canterbury Maori,” he said.

Dr Gillies, a Hornby GP who has had 28 years medical experience in Australia and Christchurch, said that through his involvement with the Board he hoped to contribute to reducing Maori health disparities and those of all people in need.

He said he had worked for many years with Aboriginal people and has a strong interest in the health of indigenous people. “Belonging to Ngai Tahu, it is a special privilege to be able to use this experience locally.”

Dr Gillies is also chair of Manu Whenua Ki Waitaha, a collective of health representatives from seven runanga in Canterbury and lectures in Maori health at the Christchurch School of Medicine.

A deputation from Te Runanga o Ngai Tahu including Kaiwhakahaere Mark Solomon brought Dr Gillies to the Board.

Mr Solomon said he was very happy to have a Ngai Tahu representative sitting on the board even if at this stage it was as an observer.

“It has been a long journey getting to this point. I know Dr Gillies will do a good job on the Board for both Maori and Pakeha in the community,” he said.

CDHB Board member and Maori representative Norm Dewes, said he was pleased that Ngai Tahu would now have representation around the board table.

“It is specially important that Dr Gillies has been given the full mandate of the kaiwhakahaere of Te Runanga o Ngai Tahu to speak on behalf of the iwi, he said.

ENDS