(Community Recognition Statement, Legislative Assembly, NSW Parliament)

On behalf of the Sydney electorate, I wish to put on record our gratitude for the extraordinary work of frontline health workers. 

During the pandemic, we've seen huge pressures on hospitals and health care workers, from paramedics through to nurses, doctors, ward staff, cleaners and call centre staff. As COVID case numbers have risen, we've been protected and cared for by thousands of people who put themselves at risk to do their job.

We've seen media reports of the pressures in hospital emergency departments and intensive care units, with staff wearing uncomfortable PPE for hours, with beds full and surge capacity stretched. We've seen how they've cared for people very ill and dying while family and friends couldn't be there in person.

Sadly some of those workers have also fallen ill with COVID or been forced to isolate, and they've been shut down under stay-at-home orders like everyone else when not at work.

Many constituents have expressed their thanks and appreciation for the work and care shown by frontline health workers and I add my voice to theirs to say thank you so much.