Question Time

Women's and Children's Hospital

Mr MALINAUSKAS (Croydon—Leader of the Opposition) (14:03): My question is to the Premier. When did the Premier first become aware of a letter sent by 215 doctors to the Women's and Children's chief executive in October last year warning that that hospital was on the brink of collapse?

Members interjecting:

The SPEAKER: The member for Kaurna is called to order.

The Hon. J.A.W. GARDNER (Morialta—Minister for Education) (14:04): I thank the member for the question. The letter, which is obviously part of the public debate as of today, is I think—

Dr Close interjecting:

The SPEAKER: The deputy leader is called to order. We have had the question; let's hear the answer.

The Hon. J.A.W. GARDNER: I think it's clearly symptomatic of some issues and, potentially, after 16 years of Labor, it's not surprising that there are some issues that this government has been grappling with in the health system. What this government has been doing, of course, is seeking to work with clinicians—

Members interjecting:

The SPEAKER: Order, members on my left!

The Hon. J.A.W. GARDNER: —and we will continue to do so in the months and years ahead.

Members interjecting:

The SPEAKER: Member for Hammond! I think I will chuck him out if he continues to interject.