Royal Commission Hears Testimonies on Social, Health, and Economic Effects of Lockdowns

As the Royal Commission of Inquiry into the Government’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic continues its public hearings, experts and community representatives have highlighted the profound and often overlooked impacts of the extended lockdowns in Auckland and Northland in 2021. These testimonies reveal the human, social, and economic toll of the measures, particularly on vulnerable groups such as the disabled, the elderly, and the Pasifika community.

Grant Illingworth, KC, the inquiry’s chairman, is leading the investigation into how the Government managed the crisis. The Commission is examining all facets of the pandemic response, including the effects of lockdowns, vaccine mandates, and public health strategies. This week’s hearings have focused on the long-term consequences of the strict lockdown measures and the challenges faced by various communities during the pandemic.

Dr. Antje Deckert, a research expert, provided testimony on the ineffectiveness of public reporting mechanisms during lockdowns. She noted that over 63,000 breaches were reported to the police during levels 4, 3, and 2, but this system was often burdensome and unproductive. She pointed out that police road stops were also problematic, as officers frequently lacked clear guidance on enforcing lockdown rules. The tension between the Government’s message of kindness and the need for strict enforcement created confusion and stress for many citizens.

Vulnerable groups were especially affected. Barry De Geest, co-chair of an Auckland Council disability advisory group, shared how disabled individuals faced discrimination due to mask and vaccine exemptions. Many were targeted with verbal abuse, with some even breaking down in tears. De Geest emphasized the need for more social and emotional support for disabled people during lockdowns, including creative ways to keep them engaged and entertained.

The Pasifika community also faced significant challenges. Debbie Sorensen, CEO of Pasifika Future, highlighted that 27% of all Covid-19 cases during the Delta-strain outbreak were among Pacific people. She noted a 30% higher mortality rate among those over 60, and said the community was over-represented in nearly every aspect of the outbreak. The Commission is examining how systemic inequalities and lack of targeted support contributed to these disparities.

General practitioner Dr. Fiona Bolden supported the necessity of lockdowns, stating that without them, New Zealand’s health system would have been overwhelmed. While acknowledging the economic and social costs, she argued that the lockdowns likely saved lives and prevented a far worse scenario, as seen in many other countries.

Senior citizens were also significantly impacted, particularly by the digitization of essential services. Karen Billings-Jensen of Age Concern New Zealand explained how many elderly individuals struggled with the shift to online systems, especially those who were already socially isolated. The loss of in-person support networks made the lockdown period even more challenging for them. Many remain hesitant to leave their homes due to fears of exposure to new strains of the virus.

On Monday, the Commission heard from business representatives from Auckland, Northland, and the Waikato region, who described the economic devastation caused by the lockdowns. Businesses faced closure threats, staffing shortages, and operational difficulties, highlighting the need for long-term recovery strategies and support for small enterprises.

Labour leader Chris Hipkins has been cooperating with the inquiry, working through a lengthy list of questions submitted by the Commission. The ongoing hearings are expected to provide critical insights into the successes and failures of the Government’s pandemic response, with a focus on learning lessons for future public health crises.

The Royal Commission’s findings will likely shape public policy and health strategies in New Zealand for years to come. As the inquiry continues, its ability to address systemic issues and advocate for vulnerable communities will be crucial in ensuring a fair and effective response to future public health emergencies.