NZ Doctor Strike The Breaking Point

The New Zealand National Party-led government is implementing significant cuts to the public health system, including proposed pay cuts for doctors and nurses. This is occurring despite previous promises of improved healthcare and is being justified by the government as necessary to address budget deficits. The article argues these cuts are part of a broader austerity program aimed at benefiting the wealthy elite. Specifically, the government intends to cut $70 million from Health New Zealand in the coming year, followed by even deeper cuts in subsequent years. This involves reducing spending on frontline services and restructuring the workforce, including the potential elimination of jobs. The proposed pay cuts for healthcare workers are presented as a cost-saving measure, despite the ongoing strain on the health system and the dedication of medical professionals. The article links these cuts to broader economic policies designed to shift wealth upwards, including tax cuts for the wealthy. It criticizes the Labour Party for paving the way for these austerity measures during their time in power. Furthermore, it emphasizes the global context of these cuts, highlighting similar attacks on healthcare systems in other countries. The article argues that these policies will exacerbate existing inequalities and undermine public health, ultimately impacting the working class. find the original article here: https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2025/05/03/gsic-m03.html