18 January 2023: Closing Statements, Barbara Scott
The next unrepresented core participant, Barbara Scott, spoke about her husband Ronald. She gave a brief summary of the infection of Ronald, including how he was told “casually” that he had been infected by HIV.
Ms Scott wanted the final report to give her the overview of what actually happened, since the Government seemed unwilling to let he understand what had happened and why her husband had died in the way he did. She also wanted it to be recognised that the various politicians had acted without respect for those harmed, including in providing financial support. “Why pay people who are going to die anyway?” seemed to be the thinking, she suggested. In an aside worthy of the most astute and wry political commentator, Ms Scott then alluded to the certainty of infected people and their families using any money they might have received going to offshore accounts.
With great dignity and articulateness Ms Scott presented her closing statement. She commented on a few of the main issues presented in evidence, such as the State healthcare system and the way Government have responded, or not responded, to the Contaminated Blood Scandal. “Time is critical, as it has already run out for some people”, she concluded.
After a respectful pause, those in attendance clapped their appreciation for a brave and dignified woman who was obviously still missing her husband Ronald.
The Chair simply responded by adding his own thanks on behalf of those in attendance who had applauded Ms Scott for her short but very thoughtfully presented and poignant statement.
Comments
Post a Comment