Fri. Nov 22nd, 2024
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Tasmania’s child abuse inquiry has delivered scathing findings against the former head of medical services at the Launceston General Hospital over his handling of allegations against a notorious paedophile nurse and other medical personnel.

The commission of inquiry’s final report into the Tasmanian government’s responses to child sexual abuse was tabled in parliament on Tuesday.

The commission has made 75 findings and 191 recommendations designed to protect young people from abuse.

While most of the findings relate to institutions, it made five specific findings against Peter Renshaw, including misconduct.

“Dr Renshaw’s omissions and fabrications amount to misleading our Commission of Inquiry,” it stated.

“We do not make this finding lightly.

“Misleading a Commission of Inquiry undermines public trust and confidence in the process. Such an act by a senior state servant is unethical and unprofessional and brings the State Service into disrepute.”

A gurney sits next to an ambulance outside Launceston General Hospital.

The commission found Dr Renshaw’s failure to comply with mandatory reporting obligations in a timely manner also “had an adverse impact on later investigations”.(ABC News: Luke Bowden)

The commission described Dr Renshaw as an “unhelpful witness” who was “defensive and pedantic” during his appearance before the commission.

“Each of the concessions he made, once confronted by the evidence, had to be extracted from him during hearings,” it stated.

“We consider that Dr Renshaw failed to accept responsibility for his failures.

“He did not demonstrate even a modicum of self-reflection during our hearings.”

The commission said this “frustrated” victim-survivors and their families, who were seeking acknowledgement, reflection and apologies.

Framed photo of Zoe Duncan held by members of her family.

A photo of Zoe Duncan is held by members of her family at the Tasmanian parliament apology to victims of child sexual abuse in 2022.(ABC News: Luke Bowden)

Failure to comply with mandatory reporting obligations, inquiry finds

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