Danielle North has chosen to depart Ambulance Victoria after more than 25 years of loyal service. She most recently was director of regional operations. Ambulance Victoria thanked her for her service, for which she had spent 39 years providing Victoria with ambulance services. Her departure comes on the heels of a parliamentary inquiry. This investigation has been looking into possible violations of COVID-19 mandates during the pandemic.
Ambulance Victoria’s chief executive, Jordan Emery, confirmed North’s resignation and revealed that the organization would correct information previously submitted to the inquiry. This restitution is a welcome correction to the public record against North. For one thing, they likely misrepresented their roles in illegal meetups that occurred throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Controversial Incident
In 2021, amid Melbourne’s severe, often criticized, stage four lockdowns, Ambulance Victoria held two funerals with scores of people in attendance. Public gatherings were under severe constraints during that period. Even private gatherings such as funerals had a maximum of just 10 people. These meetings during COVID-19 restrictions were a blatant violation of the rules placed on all Victorians.
The incident attracted heavy media scrutiny and was at first reported to Victoria’s anti-corruption watchdog. More recently, it was elevated to the Victorian Ombudsman’s office to pursue further investigation. This recent development has raised serious questions about Ambulance Victoria’s response. They happened at a time when it was necessary for everyone to comply with health regulations.
Communication and Response
WRVO’s Danielle North talked with staffer Jennifer Wiggins earlier this summer about these funerals. Now, this discussion has emerged as a centerpiece in the ongoing impeachment inquiry. As for North’s exit, Ambulance Victoria has reserved comment so far. They have repeatedly stated that they cannot comment on specific staffing changes, even with the high-profile fallout of the investigation.
The ambiguity about the reasons for North’s resignation and the investigation has raised more questions than it’s answered. This secrecy, critics say, has undermined public trust and transparency. This is even more the case during a pandemic where adherence to public health guidelines is imperative to stopping the spread of COVID-19.
Looking Ahead
Ambulance Victoria are dedicated to protecting and serving Victorians in the face of these tough times. It has made a strong commitment to tackle all of the inquiry’s findings. The organization has thanked Danielle North for her years of service but faces ongoing scrutiny regarding the management of its operations during a public health crisis.
