A retired Launceston police officer says a phone call to police went unanswered for 23 minutes and wants to know how often callers are left waiting.
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The man, who does not want to be identified, was in the force for 30 years and said he rang 131 444 recently about an incident at Invermay.
“There were some very loud voices and it was a developing incident so I rang 131 444,” he said.
“It took 23 minutes for my call to be answered, in the finish I just gave up hoping someone else would have more success.
“The police did turn up.”
The former policeman said he had heard of another caller in Hobart who wanted to report a dangerous driver but also gave up because her call was unanswered.
“This is not good enough and I ask the question how often does this happen?” he said.
“Does the Police Commissioner or the Police Minister know what is going on within their department.
“I found the situation appalling.
“If you cannot get through on the 13 number what hope is there for Crime Stoppers?”
Acting Inspector Julien Puurand said police were unable to confirm the man’s particular case.
“However, calls to 131444 are for non emergency inquiries only,” Inspector Puurand said.
“Tasmanians are reminded to call Triple Zero (000) in an emergency as these calls are given priority.
“While we understand that it may be frustrating at times, it’s imperative that priority is given to Triple Zero calls.”
Labor’s police spokesman Dr Shane Broad has written to Police Minister Michael Ferguson about the matter.
“Can you please inform me if this is an ongoing issue, and if so when will it be rectified?” Dr Broad wrote.