On behalf of the Greens, in Parliament today I was pleased to table a petition signed by 961 Tasmanians calling for the reintroduction of masking requirements for high risk settings, such as medical facilities and aged care facilities.
The petition also calls for the creation of a ‘Vaccines Plus’ education campaign as strongly recommended by independent experts.
While the Liberals are trying to pretend Covid-19 is over, many Tasmanians are still gravely worried about the risks posed by this highly infectious and deadly virus – especially to clinically vulnerable people.
Reintroducing masks in higher risk settings is a common-sense step. It recognises access to medical care and essential services needs to be made safe for everyone.
All Tasmanians should have the right to access much needed care and support without being put at increased risk of contracting Covid. This especially so for the elderly, disabled and immune compromised.
Establishing a comprehensive, evidence-based education campaign to inform Tasmanians about the dangerous nature of Covid and reducing transmission risk is common sense. It is a crucial step to ensure Tasmania remains as safe as possible for everyone.
Recent months have shown when this deadly virus is allowed to circulate unchecked in the community, it has tragic consequences.
It’s time for Jeremy Rockliff to show some leadership and listen to experts and vulnerable Tasmanians. Reintroducing mask mandates in high risk settings is the least he can do.
The Greens urge the Rockliff Government to give this petition the consideration it deserves, and change their approach to Covid. Tasmanians have the right to be as safe as possible when they are at their most vulnerable.