Getting our priorities right

The residential complex set up in 1966 by the Laura Fergusson Trust was supported over all the years by volunteers and others who donated time and money because they understood what a wonderful amenity it was.

Not long ago the land it was on was sold but is now back on the market as it’s no longer profitable for the purchaser to build there. The Laura Fergusson complex has 40 units that could house disabled people right now, and the specialist gym and hydrotherapy pool could be re-opened. About 250 people relied on its service and 62 people had to find new homes when the property was sold. The problem is money, about $11 million annually. Recently, $113 million was found to give to welloff, able-bodied people to help them buy a new EV. Nobody buys a new car, yet alone an EV, unless they’re already doing okay. It’s disgraceful that we can find money to help those people, but no money to provide an essential service for people in our community who most need help. Encouraging us to use EVs is a very small step towards reducing emissions, but providing disabled people with a home and services to help them live a full and happy life is one huge step for them.

As a society and a community, we need to examine our priorities and put our money where it matters most.