Viewpoint – Keep calm and stop the spread

We are going through a difficult and unprecedented time in New Zealand with the current COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic. I know a lot of our people in Rodney are feeling overwhelmed and very unsure about what the ongoing impact the virus is going to have on their lives, whether it be on their health or economically.

It is important that calm is maintained, and as Kiwis we take a common sense and pragmatic approach to how we tackle this challenge. If you are self-isolating, working from home or simply feeling as though the developments are out of your control, and you need some help, advice or reassurance, please contact me on my personal mobile number 021 075 9501.

If you or anyone you know are worried and need to talk to a trained counsellor, they can free call or text 1737.

We are receiving new information about the virus every day with updates on how best to protect yourself. For that reason I won’t traverse those recommendations here but instead suggest that you check covid19.govt.nz for regular updates on how to be proactive and help reduce the spread of the virus.

The economic package that was announced this week is a good first step, but more needs to be done to ensure that jobs are protected and businesses receive the assistance they need now. It is pleasing to see there has been more investment in health. We need to be testing a lot more, so we welcome the half a billion dollars that should go towards this and other important aspects of the response. There does need to be more to ensure our health system is able to respond to the ongoing spread of the virus.

I want to thank and acknowledge our health workers who are working around the clock and put themselves on the front lines of the COVID-19 response. My office is open and ready to provide assistance to anyone needing or wanting it. Please do not hesitate to reach out on 426 6215 or via email: MP.Rodney@parliament.govt.nz.

Let’s watch out for one another and especially any of our senior Kiwis who are by themselves and may need assistance with groceries and prescriptions etc. Right now, if we look out for each other, remain calm, use common sense and follow the public health advice, we can help minimise the impact on our communities. I will ensure that I am there and available for you, while also working with and trying to ensure the Government is making the right decisions, and investing where it is most needed to get us through this challenge.

Mark Mitchell, National MP for Rodney
markmitchell.national.org.nz