The Liberal Government's hands off approach to revelations of serious health risks at the Royal Hobart Hospital is astonishing and unacceptable.
Shadow Health Minister Sarah Lovell said the response of the 'now you see her, now you don't' Health Minister is inexcusable.
"At a time when the health and safety of workers has potentially been compromised for weeks or months, the lack of interest from Sarah Courtney is breathtaking.
"Sarah Courtney must demonstrate leadership at a time of uncertainty and anxiety. That means showing up for the affected workers and showing up to reassure Tasmanians she has a grip on this crisis."
Ms Lovell said the contractor has made confusing statements about the safety of drinking water in K block, and in Sarah Courtney's only public statement she drops responsibility like a hot potato.
"What that means is there's no clarity on whether there is lead in the water, whether it's at dangerous levels, what the source of the lead is, and when and how K block will be made safe.
"This government has no solution to the crisis gripping Tasmania's health system other than the opening of K block.
"That's clearly not going to happen until significant health and safety concerns can be categorically resolved, despite assurances from the Liberals that K block would start taking patients this month.
"In the meantime, Tasmanians have not forgotten that ambulance ramping continues, emergency departments continue to be under pressure, and people are waiting longer than ever to get the surgery they need.
"Sarah Courtney and Peter Gutwein cannot dodge responsibility on this issue, and must demonstrate leadership or face the consequences."
Sarah Lovell
Shadow Minister for Health
