REDWatch Media Statement
Residents seek
consultation to ensure harm minimisation works
Today Geoff Turnbull, spokesperson for the Redfern residents
group REDWatch, called on the state government
to begin consultations over its plans to open a primary health centre on Lawson
Street Redfern.
“REDWatch welcomes
the state government’s plans to increase resources for health care,
particularly in relation to drug issues, in Redfern. We recognise that drug use
is a reality in Redfern, and that a range of strategies need to be used to
address the issue, including providing users with clean equipment, counselling and support. We believe that harm
minimisation approaches will improve outcomes,
not only for drug users, but also for residents.
“It is important that this new centre works in
conjunction with existing services, such as those provided by the Aboriginal
Medical Service in Redfern. Concerns expressed by the AMS about a lack of
consultation are disturbing. For this new centre to be effective the government must bring existing providers, users and
residents along with it, rather than simply impose solutions.
“We are calling on the government
to enter into consultations with the AMS, other service providers, service
users and local residents. It may be that local knowledge can improve the
existing plan, ensure better coordination and avoid duplication. While we
support the government’s initiative,
we believe it is vital that the details of the plan be subject to community
input, and allow all those effected to have their say.”
Further Information Contact:
Geoff Turnbull 02 9318 0824 Email:
turnbullfamily@stassen.com.au
Ben Spies-Butcher
0414 744 758
REDwatch
C/- PO Box
1567
Strawberry Hills NSW 2012
Ph Wk: 9318 0824