DA calls for investigation into overcrowding at psychiatric hospitals

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The Democratic Alliance in the Eastern Cape says it is imperative that the Health Portfolio Committee of the Provincial Legislature investigates how overcrowding created by infrastructure backlogs, are affecting the wellbeing of patients in psychiatric hospitals.

The party's shadow MEC of Health, John Cupido made the remark after the recent suicides at the Elizabeth Donkin Hospital in Port Elizabeth, and allegations of maltreatment at this and other hospitals in the Eastern Cape.

He says he has written to the Chairperson of the Health Portfolio Committee, Mxolisi Dimaza to request an immediate investigation by the committee on these matters.