Wale slams Government’s plan to send Health workers to Cook Islands

LEADER of Opposition Hon Matthew Wale has slammed the government’s intention to explore a labour mobility scheme that would see Solomon Islands nurses and doctors sent to the Cook Islands, describing it as short sighted and reckless. 

In a statement today, Hon Wale said the Prime Minister’s recent announcement reflects his disconnect from the harsh realities faced by Solomon Islanders within the country’s ailing health system.

“Our health system is in crisis. What ordinary Solomon Islanders all throughout the Country face daily is a system plagued by chronic underfunding, dilapidated infrastructure, and a severe shortage of essential medicine, equipment, and medical professionals,” Hon. Wale said. 

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The Opposition Leader described the proposal as lacking basic common sense.

“Government should be focused on recruiting, training, and retaining more health professionals, not exporting the few we have left. Every clinic and hospital across the country is in urgent need of staff. That should be the priority,” Hon Wale said.

Hon Wale said the Prime Minister’s announcement demonstrates a troubling lack of policy direction and vision.

“There is no coherent policy here. It is deeply concerning that this is what Government is offering at a time when our people are crying out for better services and improved healthcare access. It is a sad indictment on this government’s leadership,” Hon. Wale said.