Major concerns have been raised over the Ministry of Health's vaccine consent for 12-15 year olds.
From 20 August, as parents or guardians became eligible to book their vaccinations, they could also book for 12- to 15-year-olds in their whānau.
But some whānau have aired their āwangawanga via social media at the wording on the Ministry of Health website that states, "where possible we recommend discussing the vaccination with your whānau or a trusted support person or adult."
However, as a 12 to 15-year-old, a parent or guardian’s permission is not required if their health care provider is confident the 12-15 year old are deemed competent to give consent.
"A health professional will discuss the vaccination with you prior to getting the vaccine. You can ask any questions you have, and if you have a good understanding, you can say yes to getting the vaccine/provide your own informed consent. Your parent or caregiver can provide consent if you would prefer."
A parent who wished to remain unnamed said he did not accept the ministry's stance.
"If adults are having trouble deciding whether or not to get a vaccine then how is it that you think a 12 year old can make an informed decision? Further, is a health professional at a vaccine centre who is under pressure capable of determining whether a 12 year old understands what they are saying?"
In a statement, the ministy said, "those aged between 12 and 15 years who go to their usual health care provider or a COVID-19 vaccination centre for a COVID-19 vaccine can provide informed consent, if deemed competent to consent, and be given the vaccine."
"A parent or caregiver is also able to give informed consent on behalf of the young person. As with other vaccination programmes and under New Zealand law, children under the age of 16 years may give or withhold consent to health care treatment, so long as they are competent to do so. It is the role of the health care professional to decide whether a child is competent."
"A child can be considered competent to consent ‘when a child achieves sufficient understanding and maturity to fully comprehend the proposed treatment’. Under the code of consumer rights, every consumer, including a child, has the right to the information they need to make an informed choice or to give informed consent."
"Therefore, a younger person can provide their own informed consent and a parent or guardian does not need to provide consent or be present."
Minister Henare said he has raised concerns with the Ministry over the matter. "It is concerning that a 12 year old has the option as they are still adolescent. I've encouraged my people up north to ensure they accompany their children at all times to the doctor to discuss this issue and make an informed decision as a whānau."
"This is a breach of the rights of parents. I have communicated that to health officials. I can't assure you that the rule will change, but I am talking to the ministry about this issue." - Peeni Henare.