ANF accused of scaremongering over hostel care

12/1/94

Disability Services Minister Kevin Minson has accused the Australian Nursing Federation of scare tactics by alleging handicapped people in hostels are being neglected medically and professionally.

Mr Minson said today the ANF was using scare tactics to further its industrial position in negotiations with the Disability Services Commission.

"The quality of care in the Commission's hostels is of a very high standard and there are a number of safeguards in place to protect people with disabilities," he said.

"One of these safeguards is a clearly defined reporting procedure which all staff, including nurses, are obliged to follow if they have concerns about the quality of care people are receiving.

"These concerns are then investigated."

Mr Minson said he wanted to reassure families of people with disabilities and the community that the quality of care in hostels would not be compromised when the Disability Services Commission continued its negotiations with the ANF about changing the mix of staffing.

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