A class action taken against the Government is due to finish this Friday 16 September at the High Court in Wellington.
The case, which started on Monday August 5th, has seen the College of Midwives allege breach of contract and discrimination, the latter under the Bill of Rights.
It is expected Hon. Justice Cheryl Gwyn will reserve her decision until next year.
Alison Eddy, College Chief Executive, says taking the legal route was not the preferred option but it’s good to know there will finally be a decision in the not-too-distant future.
“I’d like to thank midwives and others from across the country who have shown their support over the last six weeks, and the College team who have worked hard on the case for many months,” she says.
Local midwives and supporters have attended the court when they could, and a number are expected to be in Wellington for the legal closings this week (Thursday and Friday).
Attached is a backgrounder/orientation document which explains some of the issues and the chronology related to them, over recent years.
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Alison Eddy will be very limited in what she can say to media however if you would like to speak with her or midwife/midwifery advisor Violet Clapham, please direct all inquiries to Ali Jones, Red PR 0272473112/ali@redpr.co.nz
References for background:
Aug 5, 2024: Click here Midwives take govt to court after long fight for better support
Aug 5, 2024: Click here Midwives launch class action against the Government at the High Court
Aug 31, 2022: Click here Midwives taking Ministry of Health to court over pay, support | RNZ News
The public statement that was annexed to the December 2018 Settlement Agreement (released by Health in January 2019) https://www.tewhatuora.govt.nz/for-health-professionals/health-workforce-development/maternity/sector-updates#2019-updates select ‘January’