A socialist society would protect NHS

THE weekend saw hundreds of demonstrations marking the 72nd anniversary of the NHS. A few celebrated its past, a number praised its present, but the most significant ones were those that sought to protect its future.

Were it not for the Covid-19 pandemic and the magnificent way in which health and care staff have risen to the challenge of a generation, there may have been few — if any — events to mark this birthday.

The foundation of the NHS in 1948 and the securing of the principle that healthcare would be free at the point of use and available to every citizen from the cradle to the grave was among the most significant social developments of the 20th century.

These changes were not given freely; they were won by the struggles of the organised working class.

Seven decades later neither that principle nor the institution itself are safe from private enterprise and greed.

Only a few months ago the Royal College of Nursing had to call on its members to take industrial action. For the last 10 years NHS budgets have been slashed by Tories in Westminster and Stormont.

Some will celebrate the NHS while forgetting to look up at the circling vultures.

The life-changing principles gained over 70 years ago have transformed our health and wellbeing. In the coming period we need to be prepared to defend those principles.

A publicly funded health and social care service designed to deliver quality outcomes is central to a humane and decent society.

Only a socialist society can guarantee that — for this and future generations.

LILY KERR

Workers Party Springfield Road, Belfast