Hearings are now finally under way in the Royal Commission into aged care.
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Commissioner Richard Tracey is quoted by media saying, “the hallmark of a civilised society is how it treats its most vulnerable people – and our elderly are often among the most physically, emotionally and financially vulnerable”.
On May 4, 2017 I introduced to the Legislative Assembly of NSW Parliament the Public Health Amendment (Registered Nurses in Nursing Homes) Bill 2016.
That bill, if passed by the parliament, would have legislated registered nurses in nursing homes and aged-care facilities 24 hours a day, seven days a week to provide around-the-clock clinical nursing care to our most vulnerable.
You cannot put a price on the protection of our elderly, but that is exactly what the Nationals-Liberal government did.
You cannot put a price on the protection of our elderly, but that is exactly what the Nationals-Liberal government did, citing cost to support their vocal opposition to this important protection bill.
Various members of the government shamelessly debated against the bill before a vote was held on May 11, 2017.
The Hansard record will reflect the fact that every member of the government who was present in the chamber that day voted against the bill.
The government’s conscious and deliberate action opposes the hallmark of a civilised society, as described by Commissioner Tracey.
In doing so the Berejiklian-Barilaro government contributed to the ongoing neglect and continued delivery of sub-standard care.
No one from the government crossed the floor of Parliament that day, I can assure you.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE BANJO PATERSON FESTIVAL
IT’S now only days from the start of the Banjo Paterson Australian Poetry Festival, which for eight days celebrates the legend’s poetry which is now immortalised in Australian folklore and recited almost infinitely.
A.B. ‘Banjo’ Paterson was more than a poet; as fortune would have it Alf Cantrell of the Banjo Paterson Museum gave me a comprehensive chronology of the life and times of this iconic Aussie poet and adventurer.
One of the many events being held during the festival is the Banjo Paterson Festival Dinner under the Stars in the Village Green at Molong.
I won’t miss this entertaining event which includes a three-course meal with local beer, wine and cider available while being entertained with poetry, music and dancing.
For more information head to www.visitorange.com.au.
ALWAYS KEEN TO HEAR FROM THE ELECTORATE
REGARDLESS of whether there is an election coming up, I have always and will continue to make sure to stay connected with our community and to hear what matters to you.
Last weekend I hosted another barbecue at Robertson Park and was thrilled by how many people stopped by to say hello.
I’ve also been door-knocking throughout the electorate, which I’ve done since being elected.
Many people have voiced their opinions on matters such as palliative care, police numbers and crime, road and rail connectivity between the Central West and metropolitan Sydney, and much more.
I appreciate your time, openness and feedback.
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