ACT Health Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith has responded to police claims regarding a recent knife siege at Canberra Hospital, calling for a comprehensive review of the incident. The siege, which occurred earlier this week, involved a patient who allegedly brandished a knife, prompting a lockdown and a response from armed police.
Minister's Statement
In a statement issued on Thursday, Stephen-Smith acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and expressed gratitude that no one was physically harmed. She emphasized that the safety of patients and staff remains the top priority. The minister confirmed that she has requested a detailed report from the hospital's management and the ACT Policing to understand the sequence of events and identify any areas for improvement.
Police Allegations
Police have claimed that the incident was more severe than initially reported, with the patient allegedly threatening staff and patients. The police report suggests that the response could have been more coordinated. Stephen-Smith stated that she takes these allegations seriously and will ensure that all aspects of the incident are thoroughly examined.
Hospital Response
Canberra Hospital has implemented additional security measures following the siege, including increased patrols and enhanced training for staff on handling such situations. The hospital's management has also initiated an internal review to assess the effectiveness of their emergency protocols.
Community Concerns
The incident has raised concerns among the local community about safety in public hospitals. Some residents have called for better mental health support and security infrastructure. Stephen-Smith acknowledged these concerns and reiterated the government's commitment to improving healthcare services.
She also highlighted the importance of supporting the mental health of both patients and staff, noting that the government has invested in additional resources for mental health care. The minister urged the public to wait for the outcome of the investigations before drawing conclusions.
Further updates are expected as the review progresses.
