In a statement issued late this afternoon the 39-year-old mother of two said the relationship, understood to be with Government driver Ben Chaffey, was consensual and ended earlier this year after a period of some months.

``I take responsibility for my being involved in this relationship and I regret the hurt caused to anyone, including my family.

``I feel this statement is warranted to put the facts in context given the media interest.

``I have medical advice that I am suffering from depression and have been for some time. I hope that the media will respect the privacy of myself and my family as I make my recovery.

``I wish to thank all those people who have expressed their good wishes and offers of support.''

Ms Wriedt was rushed to the Royal Hobart Hospital on Monday after a suicide attempt. Premier David Bartlett had earlier informed her a Government employee was taking legal action against the Government.

Mr Bartlett has taken on Ms Wriedt's portolios of Economic Development and Tourism until her future is decided.

Earlier today Mr Bartlett said he was saddened by the behaviour of Greens' Leader Nick McKim in demanding information on the legal action against the Government.

``I invited Mr McKim into my office for a one-on-one briefing yesterday,'' Mr Bartlett said.

``I explained the process to Mr McKim and that, in the short-term, the priority must be for Paula's health and the wellbeing of the two families involved.

``As is proper process, I will be taking my legal advice directly from the Solicitor-General, not Mr McKim, in regard to any legal matters.

``I have publicly promised the Tasmanian people that I will make all the relevant information available soon as I am able to.

``We are in the middle of a live legal process,'' Mr Bartlett said.

Ms Wriedt, who was elected to the Tasmanian Parliament in 1996, separated from her husband Dale Rahmanovic earlier this year.