Children’s Commissioner’s recommendations should be implemented
Government jolted into gear by report after secrecy and inaction
Labor would support a tri-partisan approach to child protection
Shadow Minister for Child Safety Josh Willie has commended Children’s Commissioner Mark Morrissey on the report released today into children in out of home care.
“This is an significant piece of work on one of the most important issues in our community,” Mr Willie said.
“The Children’s Commissioner’s recommendations will provide independent oversight and accountability and should be adopted.
“Labor welcomes the Government’s response to the report but it doesn’t excuse three years of secrecy and blame-shifting from Minister Petrusma.
“It shouldn’t take a report from the Children’s Commissioner to jolt the Hodgman Government into gear.
“Between the missed notifications on the North West Coast and the Safe Pathways debacle, the Government’s track record is appalling.
“Nothing is more important than protecting vulnerable young people in Tasmania.
“The Minister needs to the ensure there is funding in the May budget to address the Commissioner’s recommendations.
“Labor calls on Minister Petrusma to bring political leaders from all sides together to work on a non-partisan way forward.
“We’ve seen a successful tri-partisan stand against family violence and the same approach can apply to child protection.
“Labor stands ready to work constructively with all stakeholders to put policies in place to protect vulnerable young people.”
Josh Willie MLC Shadow Minister for Housing, Disability and Child Safety
