Labor welcomes Jeremy Rockliff's announcement of support for Labor's policy to make the 97 paramedics currently on temporary contracts permanent.
This is a victory for Tasmanians, HACSU, and Labor, as we have campaigned hard on this issue for months.
But as would be expected from a tired Government that is now relying on the Opposition to solve its health crisis, the Liberals have only done half the job.
There are currently also 33 intern paramedics set to lose their jobs in March if the Government doesn't make them permanent.
Jeremy Rockliff has said they can apply for a new position, which gives them no assurances about their future.
These interns have been gaining valuable experience working in the field. We need their skills now, and cannot risk losing even one of them to the mainland.
After nearly a decade of Liberal Government, ambulance response times have increased 25 per cent and ramping is rife at our major hospitals. Our paramedics are under immense pressure and we know there are difficulties with unsustainable staff shortages and excessive overtime.
Our paramedics are at breaking point, and deserve a Government that will properly support them.
A Labor Government will support our paramedics and prioritise the important service they provide to our communities.
Anita Dow MP
Shadow Minister for Health
