The special meeting of Harwich Town Council sought by Labour councillors over the future of Harwich’s Maternity Unit took place on Friday and Labour councillors were out in force to discuss the issue with local MP, Bernard Jenkin.
The meeting had been requested by Labour after representatives of the Hospital Trust were dismissive of the concerns raised by Harwich Town Council, even suggesting that they were doing the council a favour by attending the meeting.
Labour’s Ivan Henderson took the opportunity to ensure that Bernard Jenkin was fully aware of all that takes place in the unit and why it is so important that all of the existing maternity services are retained. His words were backed up by Labour’s Garry Calver, Charlie Powell and Pam Morrison with Labour District Councillor for West Ward, John Hawkins, suggesting from the public gallery that the consultation process was so seriously flawed that the entire process should be withdrawn.
The meeting was courteous and respectful and, although initially cautious in what he said, as Labour expanded on its case, Bernard Jenkin confirmed that he supported the retention of all existing services and agreed to visit the unit again. He suggested that Ivan Henderson join him on the visit which Ivan immediately agreed to do in order to ensure that the MP had talks with the staff actually carrying out the day to day work within the unit.
Members of staff and members of the public were present at the council meeting and gave their support to the unit both during the public question time and after the meeting.
Harwich’s Labour councillors have promised to do everything possible to retain the existing services presently available at Harwich’s Maternity Unit and this meeting was another occasion when they were able to put the case for this to happen.
For further information please contact: Harwich Labour Press Officer Garry Calver Tel:01255 – 551940 Email garrycalver@btinternet.com