'Education, Free Condoms A Must To Stop... (Press, 18 January 1988)

On 18 January 1988, the Wellington Gay Task Force emphasised the urgent need for free and easily accessible condoms to prevent a potential A.I.D.S. epidemic in New Zealand. The group highlighted that A.I.D.S. affects both heterosexuals and homosexuals, posing significant social policy challenges. In their submission to the Royal Commission on Social Policy, they advocated for the creation of a trade union A.I.D.S. centre under the Council of Trade Unions. This centre, funded by the Health Department, the State Services Commission, and employer groups, would focus on educating the public about A.I.D.S. prevention. The Gay Task Force argued that this approach would be more effective than traditional methods such as the distribution of leaflets and media ad campaigns, as it would foster better understanding and encourage the necessary behavioural changes to curb the epidemic. They asserted that using fear tactics or promoting celibacy and monogamy were ineffective in preventing the spread of A.I.D.S. Instead, they stressed the importance of promoting condom use, not just as a means of contraception but also as protection against various sexually transmitted infections, including chlamydia, syphilis, and A.I.D.S. The group noted that A.I.D.S. represents a complete breakdown of the immune system due to human immunodeficiency virus (H.I.V.) infection and expressed concern that there is little hope for a cure or vaccine in the near future. While full A.I.D.S. is a notifiable condition, they argued against the necessity of notifying lesser manifestations of H.I.V. due to the absence of specific treatments. They also highlighted the need to respect the privacy of individuals with positive H.I.V. antibodies, especially considering the emotional implications associated with A.I.D.S. The Gay Task Force opposed any legislation requiring the notification of H.I.V.-positive tests, citing that such measures in New South Wales had led to individuals avoiding testing and refusing to disclose their contacts. They rejected the idea of mandatory H.I.V. testing, particularly for prisoners, deeming it unjustifiable. Furthermore, they raised concerns regarding hospital practices where individuals, particularly those perceived to be gay, were tested for H.I.V. without their consent. They maintained that H.I.V. antibody testing should only occur with the informed consent of the individual, labelling any unauthorized testing as an assault. Overall, the Gay Task Force's submission underscores the need for comprehensive education and an emphasis on consent in addressing the A.I.D.S. crisis, aiming to foster a supportive and informed community response to the epidemic.

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