HUNDREDS of angry workers, patients, trade unionists and youth joined the mass picket of Chase Farm Hospital in Enfield yesterday.
They all said they were determined that the much-needed District General Hospital which is threatened with closure will be kept open.
Sue Fitzgerald, Chase Farm midwife said: ‘I think we should all go on the march to save the obstetrics unit. We need this high risk unit because mums prefer it and it will save lives.’
Consultant surgeon Anna Athow said: ‘We need this hospital as a consultant-led, 24-hour surgery and intensive care unit, accident and emergency with maternity, paediatrics and inpatient beds.’
Kevin Mousse, Haringey Council Education Department UNISON, joined the picket from 7am.
He said: ‘It is critical to the community from the youngest to the eldest and the range of services they provide that Chase Farm stays open.
‘If it closes the most affected will have to travel many miles to receive any health provision.
‘I will ask my UNISON rep to send a delegation to the march on July 26. I support an occupation and we need numbers to strengthen the fight to keep this hospital and others open.’
Lynda Trevers, Hertsmere Social Services worker, based at Chase Farm Hospital, said: ‘Nurses and doctors can’t find work and waiting lists will increase if they close this hospital. Everyone should come on the march on 26th.’
Bill Rogers said: ‘The reason the march is so important is that the final report from the Independent Reconfiguration Panel (IRP) is on July 31 to the Health Secretary.
‘The IRP is likely to rubber stamp the decision to close Chase Farm. Health secretary Alan Johnson will then use the decision of the IRP to justify the closure of Chase Farm and privatisation will be ushered into the health service via the polyclinics.
‘These polyclinics are the battering ram to privatise the NHS. We have to take to the streets and we will put it to the marchers on July 26 and I guarantee we’ll get a resounding yes for occupation.’
Postman and CWU member Alan Hutchings said: ‘How can you cut hospitals? – it’s ridiculous. You need to build more hospitals. I say cut the government ministers’ money and spend it on the NHS.’
