Making a difference to the people of Medway
Success for health meeting in the community
Press release posted on Friday, 21 August 2009
More than 30 local residents turned up to speak and listen last night (20 August 2009) at the first Health Committee meeting to be held in the community.
Instead of its usual venue at Medway Council’s Gun Wharf building, the meeting was held at Rainham Mark Social Club. It is hoped to emulate this success with future meetings across Medway.
Chair of the Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee Cllr Mike O’Brien commented “this is a first for Medway and gave local residents the opportunity to ask questions and engage on these important health issues affecting Medway”.
Topics discussed at the meeting included the potential health implications of phone masts and the preparedness of Medway’s health services for the winter, especially in light of Swine Flu.
The issue of telecommunication masts came about after a 3G mast was installed next to St Mary’s RC School in Greenfield Road, despite objections from Medway Council.
After listening to officers and local campaigners it was decided to hold a special committee meeting to further explore the potential health implications and the siting of masts near schools, with representatives of telecommunication companies and other experts being invited.
Cllr Mike O’Brien said
“Most of the research on phone masts and health seems to be prior to the introduction of 3G technology and we want to explore this issue further with phone companies to make sure that all potential health implications on children and residents are fully considered.”
ENDS
Notes for Editors
- The agenda for the Health and Adult Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee from 20 August 2009 can be found here