By MATT NICHOLLS
ARMIDALE Hospital could be forced to wait several years – perhaps even a decade – for its $60 million redevelopment after the Federal Government ruled out short-term funding last week.
Local politicians Barnaby Joyce and Adam Marshall met with Federal Health Minister Peter Dutton in Canberra last Thursday, where they were told that there would be no commitment to the hospital.
“The Minister said he is aware of the merits of the project and supportive, but given the difficult fiscal situation inherited from the previous Labor Government, he cannot make any commitment at this time,” a spokesman for Mr Dutton said.
“State Governments remain the hospital system owners and managers, and are responsible for hospital expansion and development.
“The Commonwealth continues to support hospital services through health reform funding.”
Mr Marshall said he understood the Federal Government’s financial position, but the Member for Northern Tablelands said he would not give up trying.
“I have requested NSW Health Minister Jillian Skinner allocate additional funds to allow for the review and update of the upgrade plans, which are three years old,” Mr Marshall said.
“I want to ensure we have the detailed planning for an upgrade which caters for the health needs of Armidale and Tablelands region for now and the next 20-30 years.
“It’s also essential that the costings are accurate,” he said.
“This will ensure that when the Commonwealth is in a position to re-open a funding round, that our project for Armidale is ready to go and at the top of the list.”
The State Government has committed $10 million to the hospital project, but any work is dependent on the Federal Government making a $50 million contribution.
Mr Joyce said he understood that tough and unpopular decisions had to be made by the Federal Government.
“I remain committed to this project and will continue to lobby for it,” the Member for New England said.
“It is important we stay on the front foot and keep driving the issue for our region.”
