Premier Peter Gutwein had the opportunity in Parliament today to send a clear message that state service employees would not only be encouraged, but also supported, if they voluntarily choose to participate in the Commission of Inquiry into the Response of Tasmanian Government Institutions to Child Sex Abuse.
Labor Leader Rebecca White said unfortunately, the Premier refused to make it clear that state service employees will not face consequences if they choose to speak up.
"The Commission of Inquiry has the very important task to look at how we keep children safe," Mr White said.
"The Commission also has the very important responsibility to inquire into past failures.
"To perform its role well it needs to hear from those who have worked, or still work, in the Tasmanian state service.
"The Premier should provide leadership and make sure that not only he, but all communication from departments across the state service, encourages and supports people who want to participate in the Commission of Inquiry process.
"The Premier should also make it clear that state service employees who voluntarily choose to participate in the Commission of Inquiry will have access to legal support.
"Unfortunately for Peter Gutwein, history shows his government has not always acted with integrity and transparency on this issue.
"The Premier has already said he became aware of the serious allegations against James Griffin in late 2019 but the Commission of Inquiry was not established until 15 March 2021 and, even then, only after the allegations were exposed by the media.
"Former Minister for Health, Sarah Courtney, actively tried to prevent the public disclosure of the allegations.
"It's vital that the Premier now demonstrates he will act with integrity and transparency to give confidence to victim-survivors and state service employees that they can participate in the Commission of Inquiry process without any fear of reprisal."
Rebecca White MP
Labor Leader
