Dementia in Dubbo

Dear Editor,

A survey released by Alzheimer’s Australia, Dementia and the Impact of Stigma, has found people living with dementia and their carers often experience embarrassing situations, feel socially disconnected and less competent.

The same survey also found one in two members of the public is frustrated by their lack of understanding about dementia and want to know more.

During Dementia Awareness Month this September, Alzheimer’s Australia is raising awareness and understanding of dementia so people living with the condition can be better supported to feel less isolated and alone.

There are more than 413,000 Australians living with dementia and an estimated 1.2 million people involved in their care. In Dubbo there are currently 1,691 people with dementia, which is expected to grow to 3,538, by 2056.

The survey can be found online at fightdementia.org.au. I encourage your readers to find out more about dementia through our website or if they have any questions or concerns to call our National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500.

Maree Mccabe

The Matthews Report

Dear Editor

The Matthews Report into serious allegations of water theft by some irrigators is a shameful document. Even if you have no interest in how our water resources are managed, this report is still essential reading.

A strong, independent and unbiased public service administrating fairly and without bias is a cornerstone of our system of democratic government.

But Mr Matthews reports that when he looked into the NSW public service he saw failures to confront unethical behaviour, public servants deficient in their understanding of Westminster conventions and a culture that has nothing to do with the best traditions of Australian public administration.

The water rorts scandal has exposed the extent to which our public institutions have been debauched.

Under the Berejiklian Government, our supposedly independent public service has been hollowed out, degraded and debased.

I welcome the work done so far by Mr Matthews, and look forward to seeing his recommendations adopted and implemented.

Yours sincerely

Luke Foley

Leader of the Opposition