Cassy O’Connor MP | Greens Leader and Education spokesperson
The Greens welcome the Deputy Premier and Education Minister’s announcement of an independent inquiry into child sexual abuse in state schools. This will provide some comfort to survivors.
The Department was complicit in a terrible wrong and although these crimes are historical, reparation was needed. Many survivors and their families have received no justice or closure.
We commend Minister Rockliff for committing to an open and honest independent investigation, that we trust will provide clarity, confidence and comfort to survivors.
Tasmania’s Department of Education has never fully explained its historical wrongs that left vulnerable children prey to paedophile teachers who were moved from school to school. We hope this investigation, in conjunction with the Royal Commission, will do that – and assist in the healing process for survivors.
The Greens proposed an independent investigation as the first step in May this year, and we thank Mr Rockliff for engaging with us in the path forward. It’s clear the Deputy Premier recognised the gravity of the situation, and the pain of those who suffered abuse at the hands of people with whom they should have been safe.