A split is emerging in Liberal ranks over the impact of the State Government’s proposed health reforms on the North-West Coast.
“Federal Liberal Brett Whiteley has publicly cautioned Michael Ferguson against downgrading the Mersey Community Hospital because he’s worried about a backlash from voters,” Labor Leader Bryan Green said.
“Mr Ferguson is failing to convince his own colleagues about the effect on service delivery in regional Tasmania, so how can he expect communities to have any confidence.
“Mr Whiteley clearly has an eye on the next Federal election and fears he will lose his job.
Mr Green called on Braddon’s four State Liberal members to also break their silence over the effect the health reforms will have on the region.
“We haven’t heard a word from Jeremy Rockliff, Adam Brooks, Joan Rylah or Roger Jenesch.
“Before the election Mr Rockliff said categorically there would be no downgrading of the Mersey and his Braddon colleagues are now too afraid to speak up.
“Despite what Mr Ferguson says about listening to the community people are not fools and can see through his duplicity.
“It’s not fair to continue playing communities off against each other like we’re seeing over the future of maternity services.
“It’s misleading to suggest the Mersey will be the centre for day surgery because Mr Ferguson says people will not be forced to travel to the North-West
Mr Ferguson needs to come clean now instead of leading people on.”
Bryan Green MP Labor Leader
