Tuesday, 17 March 2020

COVID-19

Mr HALSE (Ringwood) (14:12): I would like to record my absolute appreciation for the work being undertaken by individuals in my community in light of the COVID-19 outbreak. On the weekend I visited a number of supermarkets and grocers in my area to get a sense of the situation. I witnessed the professionalism of retail workers who under considerable stress were going out of their way to assist older Victorians, those with a disability and pregnant women. I would like to thank every retail worker in the district of Ringwood for their calm and professional response.

I would also like to record my admiration for the thousands of health and hospital workers in my district who are working amid an unprecedented set of circumstances. To hospital workers, personal care attendants, nurses, doctors, mental health practitioners, paramedics and all who intersect with our local health system, thank you. To our aged-care workers, thank you. Your days ahead will be challenging, but know that I stand in solidarity with you today and always. We are all in this together, and we will get through this together.