As you will be aware Canterbury is currently experiencing a measles outbreak. The College continues to liaise with the Canterbury District Health Board (CDHB), Community and Public Health specialists about the specific measles outbreak in Canterbury. However we understand that midwives and women in other regions may have questions and concerns.

The College is deeply saddened, shocked and distressed by the targeted terrorist attacks on two Christchurch Mosques last Friday 15th March. Our hearts go out to the families of the victims and to the Muslim communities in Christchurch and throughout New Zealand.

The College is liaising very closely with the Canterbury District Health Board (CDHB), Community and Public Health specialists and of course our member midwives.

The New Zealand College of Midwives has a very simple message for its members and women around the country today, March 8th – you’re awesome and be kind to yourself.

National Health Advisory Notification of MMR immunisation advice for healthcare workers ADVISORY SUMMARY: The Ministry wishes to remind all healthcare professionals and other people working in health care facilities, who were born on 1 January…

You may be aware of the following stories in the news over the last few days.

All robust research is valid and welcomed by the New Zealand College of Midwives, especially if it assists in improving and developing maternity services for the benefit of women and their babies.

It is not unusual nor exceptional for the College and Ministry to discuss issues regarding research.

MERAS, the union representing midwives, has withdrawn its strike for Nelson-Marlborough DHB in light of the continuing state of emergency.

Industrial co-leader Jill Ovens says the union recognises the stress that our members, women, and the community have been through and that this is continuing.

“We have heard from members who have been volunteering to help in the community, supporting those affected by the fires in practical ways, and they felt strongly that we should cancel the strike,” Ms Ovens said.

“If you love your Mama, march with midwives next week”.

That’s the call from midwives planning a symbolic hikoi starting in the North and the South, moving towards Parliament over four days from next Monday (11 Feb) to Thursday (14 Feb).

The midwives’ union, MERAS, is cautiously optimistic following a positive session of the full negotiating teams in facilitation today. MERAS industrial co-leader, Jill Ovens, says a counter-offer to their proposal has been made by the…