An independent investigation will be commissioned by the Tasmanian Government into the serious allegations regarding a deceased former employee of the Launceston General Hospital.
The charges laid and allegations made against the deceased former nurse are abhorrent, and we acknowledge the community is concerned about these very serious matters.
With information coming to light, last week the Government asked the Secretary of the Department of Health to examine the THS’s policies and processes relating to these issues, including in respect to this particular case.
As part of this work, further information has been received by Government, and it has been agreed that the most appropriate next step is an independent investigation into this matter.
The independent investigation will be empowered to examine a range of issues, including any complaints and processes followed in relation to this specific individual, as well as the broad mechanisms and procedures in place to ensure appropriate action is taken when allegations are made to any Government agency or organisation.
We need assurance that the safeguards we have in place today are the best they can be for our health system, and we are committed to ensuring that the policies, practices and procedures utilised by the Tasmanian Heath Service now operate in a way that minimises the risk of child sexual abuse.
The Government will take advice on the most appropriate form for the investigation and will have more to say in coming days.
The outcomes of the investigation will be released to the public.
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