The city and Otago Regional Councils have stopped short of adopting some of the radical changes being applied in Auckland as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Auckland Council yesterday said it was closing art galleries, museums, libraries and pools for two weeks, to try to slow Covid-19’s spread.
Dunedin City Council chief executive Sue Bidrose said Dunedin would not follow suit.
The cities were different in terms of population size and density.
‘‘They [Auckland] have very serious concern that they have multiple cases, many people are in isolation and they simply are not able to do social distancing in their libraries and facilities.
‘‘They are closing for a couple of weeks while they see if they can work that through.’’
A nationwide Covid-19 response framework, which had the broad approval of the Ministry of Health, had been created ‘‘so that all councils can make consistent decisions to suit local circumstances’’.
Council facilities would stay open, as it fitted with the current recommendations, although this would be constantly reviewed, she said.
‘‘The physical and mental health and well-being of our community are paramount and remain the driving considerations in today’s discussion.’’
Related Stories
Comments
When will our city leaders wake up to the seriousness of this crisis? Things are going to get a lot worse before they get better. The economic and social impact will be huge. Hawkins as elected leader of this city you need to come out of hiding, put your big boy pants on and start making some tough decision. Your actions now could save lives, businesses and livelihoods. Your inaction could cost them. People are already suffering and so far you have done nothing to protect them. You need to stop being reactive and start being proactive. You need to get ahead of this NOW! The city and most of its people are in for some hard times, I think that trip to museum can wait!
SHUT DOWN and close all facilities now..regardless what Sue is telling us this in one decision she will not win.
Do you have staff agreement?
Quote- "Dunedin City Council chief executive Sue Bidrose said Dunedin would not follow suit."
The arrogance is stifling and palatable. However I see now pools and libraries have been closed. Sue, you really need to move on.
And yes I agree with your comments Pat and Peeppoo, where is Aaron? sitting at home looking for his big boy pants, wringing his hands and mumbling, walking around in circles as the sky falls in on him.
For goodness sakes man, take some leadership. Put our University to good use and serve our community with TESTING. Lets show NZ how we Dunedinites get the job done. Create some solutions instead of decent......