Labor votes against extra Cochlear implants for Queenslanders

A Labor vote to reject Government plans that would wipe out the waiting list for cochlear implants and provide the gift of sound to up to 141 Queenslanders has been condemned by Health Minister Lawrence Springborg.

Mr Springborg said Labor’s decision to oppose the 2013-14 budget was a slap in the face for Queenslanders suffering hearing loss.

“One of the many good health initiatives provided by this second Newman Government budget is the commitment to provide a total of $7.8 million to wipe out the waiting list for cochlear implant surgery,” Mr Springborg said.

“The positive community response to this move has been overwhelming. But in Parliament the Labor Party has responded by trying to deny supply – that is, to deny support for the Appropriation Bill and deny funds for this valuable Government initiative.

“In 24 years as an MP, I have never seen an Opposition react with such callous disregard for the value of their own vote and their standing in the community.

“The so-called bionic ear is an Australian invention and providing access to its benefits is something that deserves strong bipartisan support.

“Labor has lost sight of its parliamentary responsibilities.

“It may disagree with the LNP but its behaviour reflects its failure to understand its role in Opposition and its lack of preparedness to work in the best interest of the wider community.”

[ENDS] 7 June 2013

Media contact: Cameron Thompson 0407 585 230