Mid-north coast Nationals MPs have appealed to the public to respect and be kind to our frontline health workers.
Federal Nationals Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan said health workers were a lifeline for the community during the current coronavirus pandemic and their actions deserve our thanks, not abuse.
“I want to thank all of our frontline staff who are helping to fight this deadly virus,” he said.
“We are grateful to our local doctors, nurses, paramedics, police and cleaners who have been doing a great job to assist our community during this challenging time.
“We are also disappointed however about reports of abuse being directed at health workers manning COVID-19 testing clinics and nurses walking the streets in personal protective equipment.
“Apart from it being socially unacceptable, in some circumstances it may be a criminal offence to intimidate or cause fear in someone by your actions under the New South Wales Crimes Act. I encourage everyone to do the right thing and be patient and thankful to our healthcare and frontline workers.”
NSW Nationals Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh encouraged residents to work together and be supportive of one another during this trying time.
“If we listen to health advice and remain courteous and calm, we will overcome this and life will return to normal,” Mr Singh said.
“Tough new isolation rules are now in place whereby any resident returning home from overseas will be quarantined in a hotel under guard for two weeks.
“We are doing all we can to stop the spread of COVID-19 and I implore residents to keep doing the right things, practice good hygiene, exercise social distancing and be kind to one another.
“Any intimidation or abuse of frontline health workers will not be tolerated.”
