New allegations of historic child sexual abuse at the Launceston General Hospital reinforce the need for the Commission of Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse to move forward quickly and transparently.
Labor's Shadow Minister for Child Safety, Sarah Lovell, said the latest allegations once again demonstrate the Gutwein Government's secrecy.
"Allegations on the ABC about the sexual assault of a 13-year-old boy by a male nurse in 1989 are deeply disturbing," Ms Lovell said.
"Equally disturbing is the fact this was disclosed by a journalist and not proactively disclosed by the government.
"There is already an unacceptable level of secrecy surrounding the 13 people who to date have been stood down in the public sector, pending further investigation into abuse claims.
"The Premier, Peter Gutwein, and his Ministers have not adequately explained why they are refusing to release details of the agencies accused individuals worked in.
"These latest allegations underline the need for full transparency in relation to the Commission of Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse, and for appropriate supports to be put in place for those people making submissions and giving evidence.
"Survivors who are speaking out should be commended for their bravery and fully supported by the government.
"The only way to restore confidence in the institutions and systems involved in this is to shine a light on it - as LGH workers have said, sunlight is the best disinfectant.
"We need to fully investigate what has happened in the past, and the Government must ensure that it keeps the community informed and does all it can to keep children safe now."
Sarah Lovell MLC
Shadow Minister for Child Safety
