NSW Opposition Leader Michael Daley has promised the party will allocate an additional $60 million to deliver the full $100 million upgrade to upgrade Manning Hospital, if it wins the State Election in March.
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Flanked by Labor candidate for Myall Lakes Dr David Keegan and Shadow NSW Health Minister Walt Secord, Mr Daley claimed the NSW Government has underspent on the hospital and it “hasn’t been getting the funding it deserves.”
“The Liberals have promised $40 million – we’re going to more than double that funding to $100 million.
“This will mean the world for people who live in this area, this is a once in a generation investment.
“It will mean we can provide many services here after the upgrade is done so that the people don’t have to go to Port Macquarie, people won’t have to go to John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle, they’ll be able to get the services they need right here at the hospital.
“I’m certain that if we get elected, if I’m your Premier, this is an iron clad guarantee for the people of Myall Lakes,” Mr Daley said.
As a tenured health professional of the local area, Dr Keegan outlined his vision for the hospital if the extra funding was to be granted.
His wish list includes improvements to the emergency department, a transition lounge for patients awaiting tests or requiring transport, an additional operating theatre and improved cardiac services.
The party has also promised $1.25 million for palliative care groups in the area if elected.
“Palliative care is so important to this area,” Mr Daley said.
Manning Valley Push 4 Palliative representative Robyn Lee said the patients would welcome the funding.
“We would very much welcome the $1.25 million that the Labor Party is offering,” Ms Lee said.
“There are a lot of people in regional Australia who are underserviced for palliative care and this money would allow us to make a position for a palliative care specialist at Manning Hospital as well as go a long way to support other services.”
Ms Lee added that the current NSW Government has been a strong supporter of their work and needs.