ANDREW WILKIE WELCOMES $100M FOR THE RHH

The Independent Member for Denison, Andrew Wilkie, has welcomed the Federal Government’s confirmation of $100 million to start rebuilding the Royal Hobart Hospital this year.

Yesterday’s Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook included the promised $100 million for the Royal Hobart Hospital among the expenses to be met in the 2010-2011 Federal Budget.

“The Royal Hobart Hospital is one of the worst hospitals in Australia,’’ Mr Wilkie said.

“That is still provides such a high level of care is testament to the hard-working staff.

“I’m proud to have been able to secure this money for the hospital and the people of Denison, who for too long have been ignored by Canberra.

“This is a good first step towards delivering a fair go for Denison.

“Finally work can start on building a better hospital, not just for the people of Denison, but for Tasmanians more generally.’’

The $100 million is part of the $340 million for the Royal Hobart Hospital Mr Wilkie negotiated as part of his agreement to ensure supply to Prime Minister Julia Gillard’s Federal Government.

Mr Wilkie said the next step was for the State Government to submit its application for $240 million to the Federal Government’s Health and Hospitals Fund before the December 3 deadline.

“The Royal Hobart Hospital meets the criteria to receive a grant and the Prime Minister Julia Gillard, and more recently the State Government, have assured me the bid for $240 million will be successful,’’ Mr Wilkie said.
Andrew Wilkie MP Independent Member for Denison