In recent weeks that authority has been challenged to its core by revelations border security staff were not being routinely tested, despite assumptions they were. As well, the coming election has inevitably polarised the debate about the causes and source of New Zealand’s most recent Covid-19 outbreak. It described the “regular health check and asymptomatic testing of all border facing workers”. Being aware of the nuances and difficulties facing quarantine staff would have made for a stronger leadership recommendation – for instance, by emphasising the compulsory nature of the testing. Perhaps it is time for a greater focus on systems of local decision-making and for having some faith in the “triumph of community”.

Source: Stuff August 26, 2020 21:22 UTC