Kiama MP Gareth Wards rebukes free rapid antigen tests for state MPs

Kiama MP Gareth Ward has criticised the decision for NSW politicians to be supplied with free rapid antigen tests as the need for the tests soar amid the Omicron crisis.

Kiama state Independent MP Gareth Ward has blasted the decision for he and his colleagues to be given free rapid antigen tests as healthcare workers, truck drivers and supermarket staff continue to struggle to get their hands on the elusive pieces of plastic.

On Tuesday it was revealed NSW parliament had secured nearly 2000 RATs which would be delivered to MPs around the state.

The information was released a day before Premier Dominic Perrottet announced people who fail to report positive RAT results via the Service NSW app could face a $1000 fine.

Independent Kiama MP Gareth Ward watching the cricket while isolating at home a day after testing positive for Covid via a rapid antigen test on Tuesday, January 6. Picture: Supplied

Mr Ward, who was recently diagnosed with Covid, said it was ridiculous that politicians were being ‘gifted’ tests which have been seen being sold for more than $20 a pop.

“Members of parliament are among some of the most fortunate at this time,” he said.

“We have a job and a wage. Spare a thought for those without a roof over their heads who are very susceptible to upper-respiratory diseases and those on the frontline working to help get people off our streets.

“From what I can gather, most members of parliament are currently on holiday. How can we be gifting these tests to MPs when so many don’t seem to even be at work?

“As an aside, I am stunned that Australia is producing RAT tests but all are being exported overseas. I’m sure this news will come as a shock to so many Australians.”

The Liberal-turned-Independent MP is joining a group of his colleagues, including Transport Minister David Elliott, by donating the free tests to organisations in the social services sector.

“Real leadership isn’t about standing in front of cameras, it’s leading by example,” the former Families, Communities and Disability Services Minister said.

“There are plenty of frontline workers doing it tough and the last group of people who need these tests are MPs.

“I will be donating half of our RAT tests to Flagstaff which supports local people with disabilities and the other half to Salt Ministries for their work with the homeless. Both are local social services sector organisations.

“These tests are as scarce as hen’s teeth; I want these vital tests going to those that are keeping vital services running at this really difficult time.”

Earlier, Mr Perrottet said: “I don’t think that the delivery of those tests was necessary at all. I think that most members of parliament in the main, should not be going into high risk settings. If they are required to for official purposes, then they should have a rapid energy test before they go in.”

Mr Ward has also called on other MPs to pass on the RATs to groups in the social services sector.

Mr Ward continues to isolate at home after testing positive to Covid last Tuesday, the isolation period lifts this evening, but he has signalled he will keep working from home until Friday.