Minister's son treated for depression

Ben Gommers, with his mother, Arts Minister Ros Bates. Photo: Supplied

Arts Minister Ros Bates's son Ben Gommers has been hospitalised for depression after "incorrect and sensational" media reports put him under enormous stress, according to his mother.

Ms Bates released a statement this afternoon saying she informed the Premier she will be taking additional medical leave to recover from shoulder surgery as well as spend time with her 25-year-old son who is under the care of a specialist while he seeks treatment for depression.

The statement comes after a week in which the Transport Director-General Michael Caltabiano stepped down to face a parliamentary probe over allegations he misled estimates hearings over his professional connection to Mr Gommers' lobbying firm Entree Vous.

"My attempts to return to work were premature and Ive accepted medical advice that further rest is required," Ms Bates said.

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"During this period, Ill be spending time with my son Ben who has been under enormous stress and continued scrutiny from often incorrect and sensational reporting of his chosen career.

"On Monday, October 22, Ben was admitted to hospital to be treated for depression

"I will always be a mother first and an MP and Minister second. His recovery, and my own, will be my current priority."

Mr Gommers is currently the subject of a Crime and Misconduct Commission investigation into his appointment as a departmental liaison officer in the Department of Transport and Main Roads after weathering accusations of nepotism.

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Minister's son treated for depression