Cerebral Palsy Society of New Zealand

Equity for Illness Fight
From left:Todd Fernie-CP Society, Mike Gourley-DPA: Melanie Trevethick :Neurological Foundation, Cancer Society.	On 18th March, Todd Fernie, Executive Board member of the Cerebral Palsy Society, travelled to Wellington to represent the Society in supporting Melanie Trevethick in her crusade to create a legal precedent which will revolutionize how health funding is allocated to disabled people in New Zealand. Melanie Trevethick has Multiple Sclerosis and has led the campaign for change since 2003. “I believe it is our birthright as New Zealanders to live in a society where equality is the cornerstone on which government practice is based. Health and disability legislation currently promotes active discrimination against New Zealanders. It is my intention to see this changed.” Todd sat alongside the Cancer Foundation, the
Neurological Society, MS Society New Zealand and Mike Gourley president of DPA, at the press conference held at the Holiday Inn. Todd’s quote “the policy seemed more disabling than the impairment” was picked up by Radio Live and given significant air time. On the previous day in the Wellington High Court, the two legal arguments regarding the MoH’s contention that there was ‘no comparative group’ and that ‘cause’ was a separate issue (under legislation) were argued. The results of these arguments will be known in a few weeks. If the judge rules against the MoH and for Melanie then the case proceeds to the Human Rights Commission, otherwise the only remaining avenue is to appeal the decision. For more information go to www.equity-for-illness.org.nz

Ross Flood- Editor 55 Hillside Road Papatoetoe Auckland Phone/Fax (including answer phone) (09) 278-7106 Email Ross Flood