Peter Gutwein’s forced apology to health professionals at the Launceston General Hospital has revealed the Premier’s true colours and given Tasmanians a glimpse of his vindictive streak.
Labor Leader Rebecca White said the Premier regularly attacks anyone who dares question his government.
“The Premier was forced into backtracking on his outrageous claim that doctors did not write a letter detailing unsafe conditions at the LGH,” Ms White said.
“The LGH doctors’ letter provided a devastating account of conditions at the LGH, and raised serious questions about the hospital’s ability to provide adequate care for members of the community.
Peter Gutwein cut $210 million dollars out of health in his first budget and independent analysis from KPMG revealed that health was underfunded by $100 million every year.
“And it took a global pandemic for the Liberals to reverse $450 million in cuts to essential services, including health.
“Health has been operating under huge pressure for the entire period of the Liberal Government and the cuts have taken a toll on staff morale and, tragically, resulted in unnecessary patient deaths.
“Instead of attacking our overworked health professionals for trying to protect and care for their patients, the Premier needs to listen to their concerns and address them with meaningful action before more patients die needlessly.”
Rebecca White MP
Labor Leader
