When you stood in this place responding to the tabling of the commission of inquiry report, you had nothing to say about the Paul Reynolds abuse matter. That was despite those commissioners making it clear further action was needed.
The Liberals’ commitment to closing Ashley Youth Detention Centre has looked shaky for a long time, but it’s under more of a cloud than ever after responses made by the Premier and Minister for Children in Parliament.
The commission of inquiry wrapped up early, citing the live and current risk to children and young people in Ashley. The commission's clear direction to the government was to close it ASAP and end the suffering and trauma of young people in it.
Staffing in child safety has been an ongoing issue under the Liberals, but new information provided to the Greens shows the situation has reached a desperate new low in recent weeks.
Two weeks ago in commission of inquiry response hearings, department staff presented information that showed 31 per cent of child safety officer positions across the combined north and north west were vacant.
The Greens stand with CPSU and HACSU child safety workers taking strike action today. The Liberal Government must ensure there are enough staff to care for our children, and that staff have the support they need.
The Tasmanian Greens strongly support workers in the child safety system who are on strike today, and call on the Rockliff government to act on their concerns. Staffing in child safety has long been an issue, but things have become even worse in the last couple of years.
The Weiss Review into Senior Sergeant Paul Reynolds, established after repeated calls from the Greens, has exposed shocking findings of his abuse and made important recommendations. However, the limited Terms of Reference and powers means there remain serious unanswered questions.
The genesis of the commission of inquiry is what was revealed was happening, and had happened, and the damage that had been caused at the Launceston General Hospital, but also through our education system.
Deputy Speaker, the Greens will be supporting this bill. At the outset I thank the minister's office and department for the briefing provided to me and my staff, and the additional information provided since our briefing