The Queensland Nurses and Midwives' Union (QNMU) is appalled at comments made by LNP frontbencher and Opposition Health Spokesperson Ros Bates in Parliament today - calling regional health staff employed by Queensland Health 'duds'.
This is a slap in the face for all of our highly-professional members working in regional Queensland health settings.
As we know, the COVID pandemic has stretched resources and placed enormous pressure on our frontline health professionals. They have worked incredibly hard, and continue to work incredibly hard, around the clock, providing quality care to their patients in rural and regional communities.
Ros Bates, they are not 'duds'.
It is an absolute disgrace that frontline health workers in regional Queensland can be insulted like this in such an insensitive manner.
QNMU members are furious.
As a matter of urgency, Ros Bates must walk back in to the Chamber and retract her comments and apologise.
Queensland health workers must be commended for the contributions they make each and every day, in keeping our community safe and healthy.
Ros Bates and the LNP must show regional health workers the respect and courtesy they deserve.
Authorised by Beth Mohle, QNMU Secretary.
