Tuesday, 20 June 2023

 Gaelle BROAD (Northern Victoria) (13:07): (250) My constituent question is to the Minister for Health on behalf of employees of the Bendigo Health Care Group. Can the minister please explain why N95 respirator masks are still required to be worn by all staff regardless of their role at Bendigo Health? I spoke with nursing staff, administration staff and tradespeople who questioned why the N95 masks are still mandatory when they are no longer required at other hospitals across Victoria. Prior to the pandemic, masks were not required to be worn during the flu season, so perhaps masks can be voluntary rather than mandated or the less restrictive surgical masks can be used. Nursing staff have told me that the N95 masks reduce their oxygen levels and make it difficult for them to breathe and do their work. Staff are not wearing them properly and are less likely to take on additional shifts. I am sure we all recognise the huge workload and pressure that the COVID-19 pandemic placed on our health workforce and thank the staff for their important and ongoing contribution to our wellbeing. I would appreciate the minister’s review of the directives given to staff at Bendigo Health to ensure the best possible outcome.