Aged Care Minister Richard Colbeck walked out of the Senate today after delivering a speech in defence of his handling of the coronavirus crisis.
Mr Colbeck made a trainwreck appearance before a parliamentary inquiry on Friday when he was unable to recall the number of residents in government-funded aged care facilities who had died from COVID-19.
On Thursday, he said: “I’ve spoken directly with scores of families.
“Through tears, they’ve told me of their mums and dads, the contributions they have made to their family and community, and how they should never have spent their final hours isolated and alone.
“For us, this has never been about politics, the operation of the National Cabinet demonstrates that.
“I have been working every day with the aged care sector – providers, staff and families – to ensure that these people in care, those who first cared for us, received the highest level of protection.
“Mr President (of the Senate), for this I am accountable.”
He again apologised for his inability to recall the fatalities last week.
Aged Care Minister Richard Colbeck. Picture: NCA NewsWire/Gary Ramage
Labor Senator Penny Wong suggested “maybe you should stay, Mr Colbeck” as the minister gathered his papers and walked out the door during her scheduled response to his address.
“Because as of yesterday, there were 353 Australians in residential aged care who had died from COVID-19 and today more than 360,” she said.
“And it is a disgrace that this minister leaves the chamber when the parliament is taking note of his statement.
“I hope all Australians can see how he just turned his back on his back on his accountability and responsibility in this parliament, and did not have the honour, did not have the honour and principle to stay and listen.”
Labor leader Anthony Albanese said: “Australians deserve so much better than this.”
Former Senator Derryn Hinch said Prime Minister Scott Morrison “must sack this incompetent”.
This is a disgrace. The Minister for Aged Care walks out of the Senate when Senator Wong is asking questions about the 360 Australians who have died in aged care under his so-called watch. ScoMo must sack this incompetent.
— Derryn Hinch (@HumanHeadline) August 27, 2020
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