Premier launches independent investigation into ‘abhorrent’ LGH paedophile nurse James Griffin

An independent investigation will be launched into serial paedophile nurse James Geoffrey Griffin to ensure there is no further risk of child sex abuse in hospitals. LATEST >>

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THE state government has announced an independent inquiry into a serial paedophile who worked in the children’s ward of Launceston General Hospital.

James Geoffrey Griffin, 69, of Legana, was charged with more than a dozen offences last October relating to crimes against children as young as 11.

He had worked in Paediatric Unit attached to Launceston hospital since 2001.

Griffin died in soon after being charged after taking a dangerous cocktail of drugs.

Premier Peter Gutwein on Thursday announced an independent investigation into the allegations.

“The charges laid and allegations made against the deceased former nurse are abhorrent, and we acknowledge the community is concerned about these very serious matters,” he said.

“With information coming to light, last week the government asked the Secretary of the Department of Health to examine the Tasmanian Health Service’s policies and processes relating to these issues, including in respect to this particular case.

Tasmanian and Launceston General Hospital James (Jim) Geoffrey Griffin. SOURCE: SUPPLIED

“As part of this work, further information has been received by government, and it has been agreed that the most appropriate next step is an independent investigation into this matter.”

Mr Gutwein said the investigation would have the power to examine issues including any complaints about Griffin and the response, as well as what was in place to ensure appropriate action in similar situations.

“We need assurance that the safeguards we have in place today are the best they can be for our health system, and we are committed to ensuring that the policies, practices and procedures utilised by the Tasmanian Heath Service now operate in a way that minimises the risk of child sexual abuse,” he said.

Further details of the investigation will be released in the coming days.

The inquiry is in addition to an independent inquiry into Department of Education’s responses to child sexual abuse, which was announced in August.

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