‘Is this why we can’t get staff?’

LABOR says the findings of the latest Integrity Commission investigation into an incompetent senior Tasmanian Health Service manager could explain why the government has trouble recruiting and retaining medical staff.

The Mersey Community Hospital’s emergency department is only open during business hours because the state government is struggling to recruit full-time staff to ease the reliance on fly-in locums.

Braddon MP Anita Dow said the findings of the commission’s investigation into the conduct of former director of corporate services Simon Foster showed there were systemic cultural issues across the THS — particularly in the North-West.

The commission’s report found Mr Foster had victimised employees, gained inappropriate personal advantage from his position, influenced the appointment of friends and stolen government-owned property. His underperformance also caused project delays and Mr Foster was often found asleep on the job.

Health Minister Sarah Courtney has asked the secretary of the Department of Health to review the report and provide advice on whether further action was needed.

“Further, I have asked the secretary to ensure that the Health Executive uses this as an opportunity to ensure the new governance structure, announced in February 2020, fully realises the intended aims of strengthening accountability and empowering local leadership to deliver the support our hospitals need,” Ms Courtney said.

She said the report raised serious concerns.

“It is not the first investigation to highlight serious problems. It is time to address systemic issues with the culture in the THS,” Ms Dow said.

“Is this why we cannot recruit and retain staff?”