Feet up Ferguson thinks his job’s finished

Having finally made a decision on the future of the Royal Hobart Hospital, Health Minister Michael Ferguson appears to think his job is done.

Before work has even restarted the Minister’s already declared “this project is officially now rescued”.

But Shadow Health Minister Rebecca White says Mr Ferguson has many more questions to answer.

“The Health Minister still hasn’t explained how the additional cost of the redevelopment will be paid for,” Ms White said.

“Michael Ferguson lambasted the previous government for cost overruns but now he’s in charge it’s suddenly not an issue anymore.

“Where will the additional $70 million come from?

“Labor supports redeveloping the Royal Hobart Hospital but it’s only fair that the Liberal Government is open about the cost.

“The Liberals continue to be very tricky when it comes to the budget, claiming a record spend in health at the same time they’re cutting jobs.

“And the Minister has failed to address the issue of decreasing funding from the Federal Government.

“Michael Ferguson doesn’t seem to care that Tasmania is being short changed by the Commonwealth yet again.

“Analysts suggest we could be $86 million worse off as a result of the Midyear Economic and Fiscal Outlook. Mr Ferguson must explain how this shortfall will be funded or what services will be cut as a result.”
Rebecca White MP Shadow Minister for Health