When Health Minister Kon Vatskalis explained why he had misled the Legislative Assembly while answering a question about the hamfisted treatment by the Royal Darwin Hospital of visiting gynaecological oncologist Professor Margaret Davy, he said he had been misinformed about the contents of a letter , was “ furious” and the “next time” he would “expect resignations.”
Well , Little Darwin has received information from several sources indicating that the minister is again “ furious ”, claiming he did not know another abrupt letter had been sent to Professor Davy . Furthermore , he has been heard fulminating on the phone about the letter to the Adelaide based specialist who has been coming to the Territory for 20 years.
The minister had earlier stated that Professor Davy would make several more trips to the Territory this year. However, it is understood that the good doctor was so frustrated by the hospital’s continued less than enthusiastic response , she indicated she would not be coming back. Patients, naturally, were concerned , and complained to the minister who, it seems, claimed he knew nothing. How could such a situation exist after the Legislative Assembly apology ? Surely the minister insisted that he be kept informed of every letter and communication with Professor Davy ?
Well , Little Darwin has received information from several sources indicating that the minister is again “ furious ”, claiming he did not know another abrupt letter had been sent to Professor Davy . Furthermore , he has been heard fulminating on the phone about the letter to the Adelaide based specialist who has been coming to the Territory for 20 years.
The minister had earlier stated that Professor Davy would make several more trips to the Territory this year. However, it is understood that the good doctor was so frustrated by the hospital’s continued less than enthusiastic response , she indicated she would not be coming back. Patients, naturally, were concerned , and complained to the minister who, it seems, claimed he knew nothing. How could such a situation exist after the Legislative Assembly apology ? Surely the minister insisted that he be kept informed of every letter and communication with Professor Davy ?
This matter is certain to be raised during this month's sitting of the Legislative Assembly in Alice Springs and the continuing shabby treatment of Professor Davy demands a full explanation . Little Darwin understands the Health Department is hurriedly trying to organise one more visit by Professor Davy this year, an act which could be interpreted as a measure to prevent the guillotine blade from falling.
