STILL NO ANSWER WHY GAUTENG HEALTH HEAD LEFT

I am disappointed that six months after the departure of Gauteng Health Department Head Dr Hugh Gosnell in September last year we still do not have a clear answer why he left.

In reply to my questions in the House this morning, Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu said that there was a "frank discussion" and that they "separately amicably with no bad blood".

Dr Gosnell left after only one year in office, which is very unusual especially after the praise heaped on him when he was appointed.

I am also concerned that it took so long to advertise for a new head of department, which only took place in the press this past weekend.

This department desperately needs a permanent head with the expertise to decisively fix up the many problems which lead to poor service in Gauteng hospitals and clinics.

According to Mahlangu, Gosnell was paid R69 000 for outstanding leave, and the rest according to contractual obligation, which I estimate at more than R2 million for the remainder of his 3 year contract.

I hope that the new head is appointed as soon as possible and is able to restore confidence in the running of this department.

Statement issued by Jack Bloom MPL, DA Gauteng Shadow Health MEC, March 17 2015

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