Government must act on sexual abuse and misconduct

Tasmanian Labor
  • Another in a series of disturbing allegations involving young Tasmanians
  • Government must swiftly release Terms of Reference of Commission of Inquiry
  • Tasmanians need to know young people will be safe
  • Revelations of yet another
    public servant stood down amid allegations of sexual misconduct demand answers
    from the Liberal government.

    Shadow Attorney General Ella
    Haddad said today’s revelation is the latest in a series of disturbing
    allegations of sexual misconduct or abuse.

    “The Tasmanian community
    deserves to know that children and young people are safe in the care or
    vicinity of officers of the state service.

    “The government has been
    secretive about the details of recent instances where public servants have been
    stood down. These are disturbing allegations, and must be swiftly and
    comprehensively resolved.

    “That’s why Labor has called
    for Peter Gutwein to release the terms of reference for the Commission of
    Inquiry into historical allegations of sexual abuse before the end of this year
    and set a date for when hearings will begin.

    “It’s especially important
    for Tasmanians who want to give evidence and tell their stories to the
    Commission that they are kept informed of progress and that they are fully
    aware of how the hearings will proceed.

    “This is going to be a difficult and traumatic experience for survivors of sexual abuse and people wanting to come forward and be heard require guidance and support through the process.

    “That’s why it’s important the mechanics of the Inquiry are explained with a degree of urgency and that’s why the government and the Premier must release the terms of reference as a priority.”

    Ella Haddad MP

    Shadow Attorney General

    /Public Release. View in full here.