The lady in the Sam Newman affair is being reported as a suicide attempt.
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/08/05/2324396.htmTasmanian Government staff are being told that State Government Minister Paula Wriedt tried to commit suicide yesterday.
Ms Wriedt is still in hospital after being rushed there in an ambulance yesterday afternoon.
The State Government is still refusing to say what is wrong with Ms Wriedt, but behind closed doors staff are being told it was a suicide attempt.
The Deputy Premier, Lara Giddings, says Ms Wriedt remains in hospital and so far only family have visited.
"We are concerned for her health and wellbeing, and it is really up to her family now to speak further about any of her medical or personal concerns," said Ms Giddings.
Ms Giddings says it is not appropriate to speculate on whether Ms Wriedt had been about to resign, or if she did attempt suicide.
Ms Wriedt's family has so far refused to comment on her condition, although the Government does expect them to make a statement today.
Premier, David Bartlett, has taken over Ms Wriedt's economic development and tourism portfolios and says she will need treatment and time to recover.
He says it is clear that in the short-term Ms Wriedt will be unable to perform her duties as a minister.
Ms Wriedt recently separated from her second husband and moved out of the family home.
The Chairman of Beyond Blue Jeff Kennett has told ABC local Radio Paula Wriedt is entitled to privacy while she recovers.
"The incident itself is a call and a cry for help, and I hope and expect that the Premier through to the vast majority of the Tasmanian community will all be extending their wishes for a fast and speedy recovery," he said.
Ms Wriedt made national news last week when television personality Sam Newman apologised for making lewd comments about her.
For help and advice people can call the SANE helpline on 1800 187 263.
