Chris Hayes is one of the nice guys of Australian politics.
So it was no surprise that when he collapsed on his chair during a speech in parliament last Thursday and the footage made that evening’s TV bulletins across the country his office was inundated with messages of support.
The long time Campbelltown resident, who first entered federal parliament as the local representative in the iconic seat of Werriwa in 2005, moved to Fowler, which is based around Fairfield and Cabramatta, in 2010.
Chris Hayes, who is 65 years of age, has now issued a statement, mainly to thank everyone who expressed their support and wished him a speedy recovery.
“As you are aware, I recently suffered a medical episode while delivering a speech in the Federal Parliament on child sexual abuse, and was taken to Canberra Hospital,’’ he wrote.
“I am pleased to advise I was released from hospital on Friday 30 October 2020 after undergoing several tests and the cause has been identified and happily, is treatable.
“I will be undergoing a procedure later but meanwhile I would like to thank everyone for their concern and well wishes – it has meant a lot to Bernadette and me.
“I would also like to thank Dr Mike Freelander and Dr David Gillespie, as well as Tanya Plibersek for their immediate assistance.
“I would also give special thanks to the paramedics, doctors, nurses and staff at Canberra Hospital for their professionalism and care.
“I hope to be back at work soon, however, please be assured my office will still provide the same level of service, should you need it.’’
