Gro attacked for operations
Embattled former prime minister Gro Harlem Brundtland is in the midst of yet a new brouhaha. It appears the Norwegian health system will foot the bill for operations that should have been paid for by France, Brundtland's current place of residence. More controversy for Gro Harlem Brundtland. PHOTO: JASON deCROW / AP |
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Shortly before the story about her operation in Norway hit the headlines, Gro had announced she would move back to her homeland Norway to try and reconcile herself with tax questions and accusations. A loophole in international treaties means that Brundtland was not required to pay tax on her retirement salary of over USD 100,000 per year.
However, her domicile in France also requires special papers -- the so-called E112 form -- be filled out if one is to be operated in another European land, something that Brundtland neglected to do before undergoing operations in Norway on her hip. The former prime minister and World Health Organization head underwent operations in Norway in February and June last year.
Harald Nesvik, the head of the health and welfare committee in the Norwegian Parliament, pointed out that Brundtland should be expected to know the regulations better than the average person. "It is her responsibility to know that this form should be in order," he said.
Meanwhile, in a twist on the story, the doctor who approved the first operation has come out with a declaration that he takes full responsibility for the break in regulations.
"I realized the formalities were not in order and that the French authorities would not pay the bill when Gro Harlem Brundtland was operated in February last year," said Olav Røise, the head of the orthopedic center at Ullevåll University Hospital at the time. "The decision about the operation was made by me ... this is not something Gro Harlem Brundtland should be burdened with."
When asked if this would have consequences for his career, he answered: "I don't know. That's not what is the most important right now. What matters is to get the correct version out."
The surgeon continued: "I think she deserved it. And let it be said that I do not belong to her (political) party. I have never voted for the Labor Party (Brundtland's party)".
Røise stands by his decision, although he admits he would not do the same today.
It is unclear now whether or not Brundtland herself will end up footing the bill for the operations.
Catherine Stein
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