Still a lot to be said for our wonderful hospital

YOU’D think that with the grim economic forecasts ahead, only the most urgent governmentfunded projects would be proceeded with, and I don’t put a new hospital for Dunedin in that category.

Having spent nearly four months in the current hospital last year, and having explored most of the nooks and crannies while learning to walk again after knee replacement operations, I had ample opportunity to satisfy my natural curiosity.

True, there there were gloomy wards, some unoccupied with piles of old furniture and beds while other facilities felt more akin to the Edwardian era.

But most wards and their nurses, doctors, nurse aides, services and equipment were modern, efficient and friendly.

True, I didn’t go underground, and maybe the foundations aren’t looking too solid, but imagine what’s under the new site just a few metres from the harbour shore. Patients will be told to pack their swim togs in case they might be needed.

STV voting

I. Williams Ravensbourne

MOST of the Dunedin city councillors voted to keep STV (ODT, 29.7.20). That is like giving a fox the key to the henhouse.

Why don’t these councillors ever listen to the people? Noone wants to keep wasting money but it appears that a poll may be required in order for the voters to show their preferences.

If voters want an opportunity for a better method of voting for local body councillors, they should sign a petition available at the business of Sue Todd or Brent Weatherall. Thank you to the working group for preparing this petition which can be signed at local businesses (ODT, 3.8.20).

STV is definitely not the best method for choosing the best people to lead any city.

Don’t waste time. Sign now.

Alex Armstrong

North East Valley