Barrett Centre inquiry: LNP government not to blame for closure, Lawrence Springborg says

The ABC reports (26.2.16) on Opposition Leader, Lawrence Springborg’s, evidence provided to the inquiry into the closure of the Barrett Centre youth mental health facility in 2014.

Former Health Minister in the Newman Government, Springborg claimed that the closure came as a result of clinical expert advice provided to the Health Department at the time.

‘The former LNP government was not to blame for the closure of Queensland’s only residential youth mental health facility, Opposition Leader Lawrence Springborg says.

‘The Barrett Centre in Brisbane was shut by theLiberal National government in early 2014. Within eight months of the centre’s closure, three former patients — Will Fowell, Caitlin Wilkinson and Talieha Nebauer — died.

‘Mr Springborg, who was Queensland’s health minister at the time, is giving evidence at the commission of inquiry and spoke to the media this morning outside the court ahead of his appearance. He said the ultimate decision sat with experts, not the government.’

• LNP government not to blame, Springborg says »
• Lawrence Springborg fronts Barrett Adolescent Centre inquiry »
• Lawrence Springborg asked for oversight of possible cuts to service provision, inquiry told »
• Former judge Margaret Wilson to head inquiry into closure of youth mental health unit »