QLD: LNP leader may still work as dentist

AAP General News (Australia)
04-06-2009
QLD: LNP leader may still work as dentist

By Natalie Gregg

BRISBANE, April 6 AAP - Liberal National Party leader John-Paul Langbroek has flagged
he may continue to work as a dentist if given the go-ahead from the Queensland Integrity
Commissioner.

While Mr Langbroek does not intend to work in his Gold Coast practice, he says he may
need to work in the field for a certain period each year to maintain his registration.

Mr Langbroek is awaiting advice on whether his profession conflicts with his new role.

"I'm not working in my dental practice and I'm not going to work in my dental practice
- the issue of my registration is a separate matter," Mr Langbroek told reporters in Brisbane
on Monday.

"This is obviously an ongoing issue for us as to whether we are going to welcome people
from all aspects of society (into parliament) and that is an important question for us
going forward.

"I am completely committed to this job and doing the best that I can whilst also maintaining
that in the future I want to retain my registration."

Premier Anna Bligh said members of parliament were free to take on a second job but
she didn't think ministers would have enough spare time.

"If he (Langbroek) can meet his responsibilities at the same time as having some development
in his practice, that's entirely a matter for him," she said.

"I think the proof will be in the pudding."

Mr Langbroek is also seeking information from Queensland's dental board.

A board spokeswoman said Queensland dentists are currently not required to fulfil a
minimum number of hours practice to maintain their registration.

But under new approved policy, which is under legislative review, the minimum hours
of practice will increase to 250 hours a year.

AAP ng/pjo/apm

KEYWORD: LNP LANGBROEK

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