The Oticon Foundation in New Zealand has today awarded a research grant of almost $350,000 to the University of Canterbury to investigate the prevention of hearing loss during ear surgery.

Wellington, Nov 25 NZPA - A grant of $340,000 has been awarded to Canterbury University's Department of Communication Disorders for research into preventing hearing loss during ear surgery.

On this day exactly a year ago, the 19th of November 2008, the new National-led Government was sworn into office.

I remember the awesome feeling of responsibility as I took my oath that day.