Dad demands apology from WA government after daughter's lockdown death
The young woman, who battled with mental health, was blocked from entering the state twice, seeking to return home from NSW.
A heartbroken father has demanded an apology from the Western Australian government following the death of his daughter who was blocked from entering the state from NSW during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Alain D'argent said the government should be held accountable for his daughter Robyn, 31, dying by suicide at the height of the pandemic after repeatedly being denied entry into the state. Mr D'argent said Robyn was mentally unwell and tried at least two times to return to her home in WA from Sydney, but was blocked each time due to the state's strict border controls.
"My daughter took her own life, I want that apology from the government. I want a personal apology," D'argent told Nine News.
The father pointed blame at Western Australia's G2G pass — an online application that was required to enter the state during the Covid years — which he said "has hurt a lot of people".
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His sentiment comes in stark contrast to a new report that found the government "acted appropriately" when slamming shut the state's borders — despite criticism from separated families.
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Mr D'argent said not only was Robyn blocked from entering WA, he himself was denied a G2G pass when retrieving his daughter's ashes, which would've allowed him access back into the state.
An expert panel, selected by the state government, reviewed WA's response to the pandemic and found protocols put in place were an appropriate response to the situation, issuing 35 recommendations and few criticisms. The report cost the WA taxpayers upwards of $400,000.
Mr D'argent lashed the report, claiming it still leaves many questions unanswered. "It's very vague and open," he said. "What does it mean?".
Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636, Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.
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