Budget Disappointment for Mental Health Sector
Ingrid Leary expressed her disappointment with the government’s budget, which she believes has neglected the mental health sector. She pointed out that despite the National Party’s election manifesto commitment to increase psychiatric registrar places from 37 to 50 annually, there has been little progress. The lack of funding and support has left the sector struggling to meet the needs of New Zealanders with mental health issues.
Leary emphasized that the Minister for Mental Health, Matt Doocey, has had six months to develop a comprehensive workforce plan and recruitment campaign. However, the budget cuts and hiring freeze at Te Whatu Ora have made it challenging to attract and retain specialist mental health workers. This situation has led to many professionals being lured to Australia, where they are offered better pay and working conditions.
The Labour spokesperson also criticized the government’s failure to provide meaningful investment in mental health services. She argued that the current budget barely covers the basic operational costs, let alone the necessary improvements and expansions needed to support those with mental illnesses. Leary called for immediate action to address these issues and ensure that mental health becomes a priority in future budgets.
Workforce Shortages and Recruitment Challenges
One of the major concerns raised by Ingrid Leary is the ongoing workforce shortages in the mental health sector. She highlighted that the government’s lack of action has exacerbated the problem, making it difficult to provide adequate care for those in need. The hiring freeze at Te Whatu Ora has further compounded the issue, leaving many positions unfilled and increasing the workload for existing staff.
Leary pointed out that the government’s failure to implement a targeted recruitment campaign has resulted in a significant gap in the mental health workforce. This gap has made it challenging to attract new talent and retain experienced professionals. The Labour spokesperson stressed the importance of addressing these shortages to ensure that mental health services can meet the growing demand.
The situation has also led to a brain drain, with many mental health professionals choosing to work in Australia due to better pay and working conditions. Leary urged the government to take immediate steps to improve the situation and make New Zealand an attractive destination for mental health workers. She called for competitive salaries, better working conditions, and a supportive work environment to retain and attract talent in the sector.
Call for Urgent Action and Leadership
Ingrid Leary’s statement underscored the need for urgent action and leadership from the government to address the mental health crisis. She emphasized that the current budget falls short of providing the necessary resources and support for the sector. Leary called on Minister Matt Doocey to prioritize mental health and take concrete steps to improve the situation.
Leary argued that the government’s inaction has left the mental health sector in a precarious position, with many professionals feeling undervalued and overworked. She stressed the importance of developing a comprehensive workforce plan that includes targeted recruitment and retention strategies. This plan should focus on attracting new talent, retaining experienced professionals, and providing ongoing support and development opportunities.
The Labour spokesperson also highlighted the need for increased funding and investment in mental health services. She called for a budget that goes beyond just keeping the lights on and provides meaningful support for those with mental illnesses. Leary urged the government to take immediate action to address these issues and ensure that mental health becomes a priority in future budgets.
