❓ Opposition questions the Health Minister regarding claims of unsafe rural healthcare made by a former WA Country Health Service executive. The Minister refutes the claims, highlighting significant government investment in regional health infrastructure.
AnsweredQoN 120Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
COUNTRY HEALTH SERVICES — COMMENTS BY CHRISTINE O’FARRELL
Given the public condemnation of the WA Country Health Service by former chief executive Christine O’Farrell in The West Australian on Wednesday, 26 March and her claims that some parts of rural Western Australia have been left with “blatantly bloody unsafe” health care — (1) Has the minister taken steps to ascertain from Mrs O’Farrell what locations are now “blatantly bloody unsafe”; and, if not, why not? (2) What does the minister say about Mrs O’Farrell’s claim of “ongoing relentless chronic neglect” in primary health care and emergency medical management due to the “‘metrocentric’ attitudes” of governments and bureaucrats? (3) Does the minister concede that Mrs O’Farrell, who says she has been involved in the country health system for 40 years, might be correct about the dangerous side effects of the minister’s government’s country health policy? (4) Did Mrs O’Farrell raise any of her alarming claims with the minister while she still held the top job in country health, or would that have been a sackable offence? Mr J.A. McGINTY
Given the public condemnation of the WA Country Health Service by former chief executive Christine O’Farrell in The West Australian on Wednesday, 26 March and her claims that some parts of rural Western Australia have been left with “blatantly bloody unsafe” health care — (1) Has the minister taken steps to ascertain from Mrs O’Farrell what locations are now “blatantly bloody unsafe”; and, if not, why not? (2) What does the minister say about Mrs O’Farrell’s claim of “ongoing relentless chronic neglect” in primary health care and emergency medical management due to the “‘metrocentric’ attitudes” of governments and bureaucrats? (3) Does the minister concede that Mrs O’Farrell, who says she has been involved in the country health system for 40 years, might be correct about the dangerous side effects of the minister’s government’s country health policy? (4) Did Mrs O’Farrell raise any of her alarming claims with the minister while she still held the top job in country health, or would that have been a sackable offence? Mr J.A. McGINTY
AnswerView source ↗
(1)-(4) The answer to the last question is no. Mrs O’Farrell, when she was in charge of country health services in Western Australia for a very long period of time, did not raise those matters in those terms with me. Therefore, I am a little surprised to hear her rather intemperate outburst; nonetheless, I take that on board as a comment from somebody — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr J.A. McGINTY : — who was once in charge of administering this area of health care. I have not spoken to Mrs O’Farrell since, if my memory serves me correctly, I spoke and wished her well on her retirement from the health department last year. A massive investment is taking place throughout Western Australia today in health services in the country, and the member for Merredin knows that perfectly well. The member sitting immediately behind the member for Merredin is benefiting from a magnificent new hospital in his electorate in Denmark, and I understand that is coming on very well at the moment. Other members on the National and Liberal side of the house are aware of the very significant investment that is taking place throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia—this includes the Leader of the Opposition who will be the beneficiary of a magnificent new hospital, which is 50 per cent larger than the old hospital that it will replace, in Busselton. In the Kimberley region, for instance—where I know members opposite were recently trying to find a candidate to contest that seat—the government is rebuilding every hospital. Fitzroy Crossing has a magnificent new facility that the member for Kimberley and I opened in recent weeks. Halls Creek got a brand-new hospital last year. The Premier went to Kununurra late last year and opened a very significant extension to the Kununurra District Hospital. We are effectively rebuilding Broome District Hospital with a $50 million investment. Most recently announced and most importantly, because the matter was raised by the coroner in his report on alcohol-related deaths in the Kimberley, for the first time for the northern half of the state, a mental health inpatient unit is being constructed to service both the Pilbara and the Kimberley regions that will result in about 30 additional mental health professionals being located in the northern half of the state. This is a story that goes on throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia. There is a brand-new hospital in Port Hedland; stage one is already completed and stage two construction is about to start on a magnificent facility. The new hospital in Geraldton, which we committed to and have built, was opened by the Premier, I think, two years ago—it was about that time. We have massive investment lined up to go into all the areas that we are designating as regional resource centres. I have already mentioned Broome, Port Hedland and Geraldton, but there is also Kalgoorlie, a $50 million investment in Albany, and a massive investment in Bunbury. Many members opposite were in Bunbury recently when we opened not only the new dental facility, but also the new mental health clinic, which resulted in a doubling of the size of the mental health inpatient unit to service the people of the south west of Western Australia. I could go on; there are many other examples that I have not had time to mention today. Several members interjected. Mr J.A. McGINTY : Therefore, can I just say this: I appreciate there is an interplay between the Liberals and the Nationals in respect of any issue in the bush. However, I think anyone can see an unprecedented level of government commitment that is delivering excellence in health care so that a lot more people can be treated locally in the regions where they live so they do not have to travel to Perth for treatment.
(1) Has the minister taken steps to ascertain from Mrs O’Farrell what locations are now “blatantly bloody unsafe”; and, if not, why not? (2) What does the minister say about Mrs O’Farrell’s claim of “ongoing relentless chronic neglect” in primary health care and emergency medical management due to the “‘metrocentric’ attitudes” of governments and bureaucrats? (3) Does the minister concede that Mrs O’Farrell, who says she has been involved in the country health system for 40 years, might be correct about the dangerous side effects of the minister’s government’s country health policy? (4) Did Mrs O’Farrell raise any of her alarming claims with the minister while she still held the top job in country health, or would that have been a sackable offence? Mr J.A. McGINTY replied: (1)-(4) The answer to the last question is no. Mrs O’Farrell, when she was in charge of country health services in Western Australia for a very long period of time, did not raise those matters in those terms with me. Therefore, I am a little surprised to hear her rather intemperate outburst; nonetheless, I take that on board as a comment from somebody — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr J.A. McGINTY : — who was once in charge of administering this area of health care. I have not spoken to Mrs O’Farrell since, if my memory serves me correctly, I spoke and wished her well on her retirement from the health department last year. A massive investment is taking place throughout Western Australia today in health services in the country, and the member for Merredin knows that perfectly well. The member sitting immediately behind the member for Merredin is benefiting from a magnificent new hospital in his electorate in Denmark, and I understand that is coming on very well at the moment. Other members on the National and Liberal side of the house are aware of the very significant investment that is taking place throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia—this includes the Leader of the Opposition who will be the beneficiary of a magnificent new hospital, which is 50 per cent larger than the old hospital that it will replace, in Busselton. In the Kimberley region, for instance—where I know members opposite were recently trying to find a candidate to contest that seat—the government is rebuilding every hospital. Fitzroy Crossing has a magnificent new facility that the member for Kimberley and I opened in recent weeks. Halls Creek got a brand-new hospital last year. The Premier went to Kununurra late last year and opened a very significant extension to the Kununurra District Hospital. We are effectively rebuilding Broome District Hospital with a $50 million investment. Most recently announced and most importantly, because the matter was raised by the coroner in his report on alcohol-related deaths in the Kimberley, for the first time for the northern half of the state, a mental health inpatient unit is being constructed to service both the Pilbara and the Kimberley regions that will result in about 30 additional mental health professionals being located in the northern half of the state. This is a story that goes on throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia. There is a brand-new hospital in Port Hedland; stage one is already completed and stage two construction is about to start on a magnificent facility. The new hospital in Geraldton, which we committed to and have built, was opened by the Premier, I think, two years ago—it was about that time. We have massive investment lined up to go into all the areas that we are designating as regional resource centres. I have already mentioned Broome, Port Hedland and Geraldton, but there is also Kalgoorlie, a $50 million investment in Albany, and a massive investment in Bunbury. Many members opposite were in Bunbury recently when we opened not only the new dental facility, but also the new mental health clinic, which resulted in a doubling of the size of the mental health inpatient unit to service the people of the south west of Western Australia. I could go on; there are many other examples that I have not had time to mention today. Several members interjected. Mr J.A. McGINTY : Therefore, can I just say this: I appreciate there is an interplay between the Liberals and the Nationals in respect of any issue in the bush. However, I think anyone can see an unprecedented level of government commitment that is delivering excellence in health care so that a lot more people can be treated locally in the regions where they live so they do not have to travel to Perth for treatment.
(2) What does the minister say about Mrs O’Farrell’s claim of “ongoing relentless chronic neglect” in primary health care and emergency medical management due to the “‘metrocentric’ attitudes” of governments and bureaucrats? (3) Does the minister concede that Mrs O’Farrell, who says she has been involved in the country health system for 40 years, might be correct about the dangerous side effects of the minister’s government’s country health policy? (4) Did Mrs O’Farrell raise any of her alarming claims with the minister while she still held the top job in country health, or would that have been a sackable offence? Mr J.A. McGINTY replied: (1)-(4) The answer to the last question is no. Mrs O’Farrell, when she was in charge of country health services in Western Australia for a very long period of time, did not raise those matters in those terms with me. Therefore, I am a little surprised to hear her rather intemperate outburst; nonetheless, I take that on board as a comment from somebody — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr J.A. McGINTY : — who was once in charge of administering this area of health care. I have not spoken to Mrs O’Farrell since, if my memory serves me correctly, I spoke and wished her well on her retirement from the health department last year. A massive investment is taking place throughout Western Australia today in health services in the country, and the member for Merredin knows that perfectly well. The member sitting immediately behind the member for Merredin is benefiting from a magnificent new hospital in his electorate in Denmark, and I understand that is coming on very well at the moment. Other members on the National and Liberal side of the house are aware of the very significant investment that is taking place throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia—this includes the Leader of the Opposition who will be the beneficiary of a magnificent new hospital, which is 50 per cent larger than the old hospital that it will replace, in Busselton. In the Kimberley region, for instance—where I know members opposite were recently trying to find a candidate to contest that seat—the government is rebuilding every hospital. Fitzroy Crossing has a magnificent new facility that the member for Kimberley and I opened in recent weeks. Halls Creek got a brand-new hospital last year. The Premier went to Kununurra late last year and opened a very significant extension to the Kununurra District Hospital. We are effectively rebuilding Broome District Hospital with a $50 million investment. Most recently announced and most importantly, because the matter was raised by the coroner in his report on alcohol-related deaths in the Kimberley, for the first time for the northern half of the state, a mental health inpatient unit is being constructed to service both the Pilbara and the Kimberley regions that will result in about 30 additional mental health professionals being located in the northern half of the state. This is a story that goes on throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia. There is a brand-new hospital in Port Hedland; stage one is already completed and stage two construction is about to start on a magnificent facility. The new hospital in Geraldton, which we committed to and have built, was opened by the Premier, I think, two years ago—it was about that time. We have massive investment lined up to go into all the areas that we are designating as regional resource centres. I have already mentioned Broome, Port Hedland and Geraldton, but there is also Kalgoorlie, a $50 million investment in Albany, and a massive investment in Bunbury. Many members opposite were in Bunbury recently when we opened not only the new dental facility, but also the new mental health clinic, which resulted in a doubling of the size of the mental health inpatient unit to service the people of the south west of Western Australia. I could go on; there are many other examples that I have not had time to mention today. Several members interjected. Mr J.A. McGINTY : Therefore, can I just say this: I appreciate there is an interplay between the Liberals and the Nationals in respect of any issue in the bush. However, I think anyone can see an unprecedented level of government commitment that is delivering excellence in health care so that a lot more people can be treated locally in the regions where they live so they do not have to travel to Perth for treatment.
(3) Does the minister concede that Mrs O’Farrell, who says she has been involved in the country health system for 40 years, might be correct about the dangerous side effects of the minister’s government’s country health policy? (4) Did Mrs O’Farrell raise any of her alarming claims with the minister while she still held the top job in country health, or would that have been a sackable offence? Mr J.A. McGINTY replied: (1)-(4) The answer to the last question is no. Mrs O’Farrell, when she was in charge of country health services in Western Australia for a very long period of time, did not raise those matters in those terms with me. Therefore, I am a little surprised to hear her rather intemperate outburst; nonetheless, I take that on board as a comment from somebody — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr J.A. McGINTY : — who was once in charge of administering this area of health care. I have not spoken to Mrs O’Farrell since, if my memory serves me correctly, I spoke and wished her well on her retirement from the health department last year. A massive investment is taking place throughout Western Australia today in health services in the country, and the member for Merredin knows that perfectly well. The member sitting immediately behind the member for Merredin is benefiting from a magnificent new hospital in his electorate in Denmark, and I understand that is coming on very well at the moment. Other members on the National and Liberal side of the house are aware of the very significant investment that is taking place throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia—this includes the Leader of the Opposition who will be the beneficiary of a magnificent new hospital, which is 50 per cent larger than the old hospital that it will replace, in Busselton. In the Kimberley region, for instance—where I know members opposite were recently trying to find a candidate to contest that seat—the government is rebuilding every hospital. Fitzroy Crossing has a magnificent new facility that the member for Kimberley and I opened in recent weeks. Halls Creek got a brand-new hospital last year. The Premier went to Kununurra late last year and opened a very significant extension to the Kununurra District Hospital. We are effectively rebuilding Broome District Hospital with a $50 million investment. Most recently announced and most importantly, because the matter was raised by the coroner in his report on alcohol-related deaths in the Kimberley, for the first time for the northern half of the state, a mental health inpatient unit is being constructed to service both the Pilbara and the Kimberley regions that will result in about 30 additional mental health professionals being located in the northern half of the state. This is a story that goes on throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia. There is a brand-new hospital in Port Hedland; stage one is already completed and stage two construction is about to start on a magnificent facility. The new hospital in Geraldton, which we committed to and have built, was opened by the Premier, I think, two years ago—it was about that time. We have massive investment lined up to go into all the areas that we are designating as regional resource centres. I have already mentioned Broome, Port Hedland and Geraldton, but there is also Kalgoorlie, a $50 million investment in Albany, and a massive investment in Bunbury. Many members opposite were in Bunbury recently when we opened not only the new dental facility, but also the new mental health clinic, which resulted in a doubling of the size of the mental health inpatient unit to service the people of the south west of Western Australia. I could go on; there are many other examples that I have not had time to mention today. Several members interjected. Mr J.A. McGINTY : Therefore, can I just say this: I appreciate there is an interplay between the Liberals and the Nationals in respect of any issue in the bush. However, I think anyone can see an unprecedented level of government commitment that is delivering excellence in health care so that a lot more people can be treated locally in the regions where they live so they do not have to travel to Perth for treatment.
(4) Did Mrs O’Farrell raise any of her alarming claims with the minister while she still held the top job in country health, or would that have been a sackable offence? Mr J.A. McGINTY replied: (1)-(4) The answer to the last question is no. Mrs O’Farrell, when she was in charge of country health services in Western Australia for a very long period of time, did not raise those matters in those terms with me. Therefore, I am a little surprised to hear her rather intemperate outburst; nonetheless, I take that on board as a comment from somebody — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr J.A. McGINTY : — who was once in charge of administering this area of health care. I have not spoken to Mrs O’Farrell since, if my memory serves me correctly, I spoke and wished her well on her retirement from the health department last year. A massive investment is taking place throughout Western Australia today in health services in the country, and the member for Merredin knows that perfectly well. The member sitting immediately behind the member for Merredin is benefiting from a magnificent new hospital in his electorate in Denmark, and I understand that is coming on very well at the moment. Other members on the National and Liberal side of the house are aware of the very significant investment that is taking place throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia—this includes the Leader of the Opposition who will be the beneficiary of a magnificent new hospital, which is 50 per cent larger than the old hospital that it will replace, in Busselton. In the Kimberley region, for instance—where I know members opposite were recently trying to find a candidate to contest that seat—the government is rebuilding every hospital. Fitzroy Crossing has a magnificent new facility that the member for Kimberley and I opened in recent weeks. Halls Creek got a brand-new hospital last year. The Premier went to Kununurra late last year and opened a very significant extension to the Kununurra District Hospital. We are effectively rebuilding Broome District Hospital with a $50 million investment. Most recently announced and most importantly, because the matter was raised by the coroner in his report on alcohol-related deaths in the Kimberley, for the first time for the northern half of the state, a mental health inpatient unit is being constructed to service both the Pilbara and the Kimberley regions that will result in about 30 additional mental health professionals being located in the northern half of the state. This is a story that goes on throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia. There is a brand-new hospital in Port Hedland; stage one is already completed and stage two construction is about to start on a magnificent facility. The new hospital in Geraldton, which we committed to and have built, was opened by the Premier, I think, two years ago—it was about that time. We have massive investment lined up to go into all the areas that we are designating as regional resource centres. I have already mentioned Broome, Port Hedland and Geraldton, but there is also Kalgoorlie, a $50 million investment in Albany, and a massive investment in Bunbury. Many members opposite were in Bunbury recently when we opened not only the new dental facility, but also the new mental health clinic, which resulted in a doubling of the size of the mental health inpatient unit to service the people of the south west of Western Australia. I could go on; there are many other examples that I have not had time to mention today. Several members interjected. Mr J.A. McGINTY : Therefore, can I just say this: I appreciate there is an interplay between the Liberals and the Nationals in respect of any issue in the bush. However, I think anyone can see an unprecedented level of government commitment that is delivering excellence in health care so that a lot more people can be treated locally in the regions where they live so they do not have to travel to Perth for treatment.
Mr J.A. McGINTY replied: (1)-(4) The answer to the last question is no. Mrs O’Farrell, when she was in charge of country health services in Western Australia for a very long period of time, did not raise those matters in those terms with me. Therefore, I am a little surprised to hear her rather intemperate outburst; nonetheless, I take that on board as a comment from somebody — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr J.A. McGINTY : — who was once in charge of administering this area of health care. I have not spoken to Mrs O’Farrell since, if my memory serves me correctly, I spoke and wished her well on her retirement from the health department last year. A massive investment is taking place throughout Western Australia today in health services in the country, and the member for Merredin knows that perfectly well. The member sitting immediately behind the member for Merredin is benefiting from a magnificent new hospital in his electorate in Denmark, and I understand that is coming on very well at the moment. Other members on the National and Liberal side of the house are aware of the very significant investment that is taking place throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia—this includes the Leader of the Opposition who will be the beneficiary of a magnificent new hospital, which is 50 per cent larger than the old hospital that it will replace, in Busselton. In the Kimberley region, for instance—where I know members opposite were recently trying to find a candidate to contest that seat—the government is rebuilding every hospital. Fitzroy Crossing has a magnificent new facility that the member for Kimberley and I opened in recent weeks. Halls Creek got a brand-new hospital last year. The Premier went to Kununurra late last year and opened a very significant extension to the Kununurra District Hospital. We are effectively rebuilding Broome District Hospital with a $50 million investment. Most recently announced and most importantly, because the matter was raised by the coroner in his report on alcohol-related deaths in the Kimberley, for the first time for the northern half of the state, a mental health inpatient unit is being constructed to service both the Pilbara and the Kimberley regions that will result in about 30 additional mental health professionals being located in the northern half of the state. This is a story that goes on throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia. There is a brand-new hospital in Port Hedland; stage one is already completed and stage two construction is about to start on a magnificent facility. The new hospital in Geraldton, which we committed to and have built, was opened by the Premier, I think, two years ago—it was about that time. We have massive investment lined up to go into all the areas that we are designating as regional resource centres. I have already mentioned Broome, Port Hedland and Geraldton, but there is also Kalgoorlie, a $50 million investment in Albany, and a massive investment in Bunbury. Many members opposite were in Bunbury recently when we opened not only the new dental facility, but also the new mental health clinic, which resulted in a doubling of the size of the mental health inpatient unit to service the people of the south west of Western Australia. I could go on; there are many other examples that I have not had time to mention today. Several members interjected. Mr J.A. McGINTY : Therefore, can I just say this: I appreciate there is an interplay between the Liberals and the Nationals in respect of any issue in the bush. However, I think anyone can see an unprecedented level of government commitment that is delivering excellence in health care so that a lot more people can be treated locally in the regions where they live so they do not have to travel to Perth for treatment.
(1)-(4) The answer to the last question is no. Mrs O’Farrell, when she was in charge of country health services in Western Australia for a very long period of time, did not raise those matters in those terms with me. Therefore, I am a little surprised to hear her rather intemperate outburst; nonetheless, I take that on board as a comment from somebody — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr J.A. McGINTY : — who was once in charge of administering this area of health care. I have not spoken to Mrs O’Farrell since, if my memory serves me correctly, I spoke and wished her well on her retirement from the health department last year. A massive investment is taking place throughout Western Australia today in health services in the country, and the member for Merredin knows that perfectly well. The member sitting immediately behind the member for Merredin is benefiting from a magnificent new hospital in his electorate in Denmark, and I understand that is coming on very well at the moment. Other members on the National and Liberal side of the house are aware of the very significant investment that is taking place throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia—this includes the Leader of the Opposition who will be the beneficiary of a magnificent new hospital, which is 50 per cent larger than the old hospital that it will replace, in Busselton. In the Kimberley region, for instance—where I know members opposite were recently trying to find a candidate to contest that seat—the government is rebuilding every hospital. Fitzroy Crossing has a magnificent new facility that the member for Kimberley and I opened in recent weeks. Halls Creek got a brand-new hospital last year. The Premier went to Kununurra late last year and opened a very significant extension to the Kununurra District Hospital. We are effectively rebuilding Broome District Hospital with a $50 million investment. Most recently announced and most importantly, because the matter was raised by the coroner in his report on alcohol-related deaths in the Kimberley, for the first time for the northern half of the state, a mental health inpatient unit is being constructed to service both the Pilbara and the Kimberley regions that will result in about 30 additional mental health professionals being located in the northern half of the state. This is a story that goes on throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia. There is a brand-new hospital in Port Hedland; stage one is already completed and stage two construction is about to start on a magnificent facility. The new hospital in Geraldton, which we committed to and have built, was opened by the Premier, I think, two years ago—it was about that time. We have massive investment lined up to go into all the areas that we are designating as regional resource centres. I have already mentioned Broome, Port Hedland and Geraldton, but there is also Kalgoorlie, a $50 million investment in Albany, and a massive investment in Bunbury. Many members opposite were in Bunbury recently when we opened not only the new dental facility, but also the new mental health clinic, which resulted in a doubling of the size of the mental health inpatient unit to service the people of the south west of Western Australia. I could go on; there are many other examples that I have not had time to mention today. Several members interjected. Mr J.A. McGINTY : Therefore, can I just say this: I appreciate there is an interplay between the Liberals and the Nationals in respect of any issue in the bush. However, I think anyone can see an unprecedented level of government commitment that is delivering excellence in health care so that a lot more people can be treated locally in the regions where they live so they do not have to travel to Perth for treatment.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr J.A. McGINTY : — who was once in charge of administering this area of health care. I have not spoken to Mrs O’Farrell since, if my memory serves me correctly, I spoke and wished her well on her retirement from the health department last year. A massive investment is taking place throughout Western Australia today in health services in the country, and the member for Merredin knows that perfectly well. The member sitting immediately behind the member for Merredin is benefiting from a magnificent new hospital in his electorate in Denmark, and I understand that is coming on very well at the moment. Other members on the National and Liberal side of the house are aware of the very significant investment that is taking place throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia—this includes the Leader of the Opposition who will be the beneficiary of a magnificent new hospital, which is 50 per cent larger than the old hospital that it will replace, in Busselton. In the Kimberley region, for instance—where I know members opposite were recently trying to find a candidate to contest that seat—the government is rebuilding every hospital. Fitzroy Crossing has a magnificent new facility that the member for Kimberley and I opened in recent weeks. Halls Creek got a brand-new hospital last year. The Premier went to Kununurra late last year and opened a very significant extension to the Kununurra District Hospital. We are effectively rebuilding Broome District Hospital with a $50 million investment. Most recently announced and most importantly, because the matter was raised by the coroner in his report on alcohol-related deaths in the Kimberley, for the first time for the northern half of the state, a mental health inpatient unit is being constructed to service both the Pilbara and the Kimberley regions that will result in about 30 additional mental health professionals being located in the northern half of the state. This is a story that goes on throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia. There is a brand-new hospital in Port Hedland; stage one is already completed and stage two construction is about to start on a magnificent facility. The new hospital in Geraldton, which we committed to and have built, was opened by the Premier, I think, two years ago—it was about that time. We have massive investment lined up to go into all the areas that we are designating as regional resource centres. I have already mentioned Broome, Port Hedland and Geraldton, but there is also Kalgoorlie, a $50 million investment in Albany, and a massive investment in Bunbury. Many members opposite were in Bunbury recently when we opened not only the new dental facility, but also the new mental health clinic, which resulted in a doubling of the size of the mental health inpatient unit to service the people of the south west of Western Australia. I could go on; there are many other examples that I have not had time to mention today. Several members interjected. Mr J.A. McGINTY : Therefore, can I just say this: I appreciate there is an interplay between the Liberals and the Nationals in respect of any issue in the bush. However, I think anyone can see an unprecedented level of government commitment that is delivering excellence in health care so that a lot more people can be treated locally in the regions where they live so they do not have to travel to Perth for treatment.
The SPEAKER : Order! Mr J.A. McGINTY : — who was once in charge of administering this area of health care. I have not spoken to Mrs O’Farrell since, if my memory serves me correctly, I spoke and wished her well on her retirement from the health department last year. A massive investment is taking place throughout Western Australia today in health services in the country, and the member for Merredin knows that perfectly well. The member sitting immediately behind the member for Merredin is benefiting from a magnificent new hospital in his electorate in Denmark, and I understand that is coming on very well at the moment. Other members on the National and Liberal side of the house are aware of the very significant investment that is taking place throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia—this includes the Leader of the Opposition who will be the beneficiary of a magnificent new hospital, which is 50 per cent larger than the old hospital that it will replace, in Busselton. In the Kimberley region, for instance—where I know members opposite were recently trying to find a candidate to contest that seat—the government is rebuilding every hospital. Fitzroy Crossing has a magnificent new facility that the member for Kimberley and I opened in recent weeks. Halls Creek got a brand-new hospital last year. The Premier went to Kununurra late last year and opened a very significant extension to the Kununurra District Hospital. We are effectively rebuilding Broome District Hospital with a $50 million investment. Most recently announced and most importantly, because the matter was raised by the coroner in his report on alcohol-related deaths in the Kimberley, for the first time for the northern half of the state, a mental health inpatient unit is being constructed to service both the Pilbara and the Kimberley regions that will result in about 30 additional mental health professionals being located in the northern half of the state. This is a story that goes on throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia. There is a brand-new hospital in Port Hedland; stage one is already completed and stage two construction is about to start on a magnificent facility. The new hospital in Geraldton, which we committed to and have built, was opened by the Premier, I think, two years ago—it was about that time. We have massive investment lined up to go into all the areas that we are designating as regional resource centres. I have already mentioned Broome, Port Hedland and Geraldton, but there is also Kalgoorlie, a $50 million investment in Albany, and a massive investment in Bunbury. Many members opposite were in Bunbury recently when we opened not only the new dental facility, but also the new mental health clinic, which resulted in a doubling of the size of the mental health inpatient unit to service the people of the south west of Western Australia. I could go on; there are many other examples that I have not had time to mention today. Several members interjected. Mr J.A. McGINTY : Therefore, can I just say this: I appreciate there is an interplay between the Liberals and the Nationals in respect of any issue in the bush. However, I think anyone can see an unprecedented level of government commitment that is delivering excellence in health care so that a lot more people can be treated locally in the regions where they live so they do not have to travel to Perth for treatment.
Mr J.A. McGINTY : — who was once in charge of administering this area of health care. I have not spoken to Mrs O’Farrell since, if my memory serves me correctly, I spoke and wished her well on her retirement from the health department last year. A massive investment is taking place throughout Western Australia today in health services in the country, and the member for Merredin knows that perfectly well. The member sitting immediately behind the member for Merredin is benefiting from a magnificent new hospital in his electorate in Denmark, and I understand that is coming on very well at the moment. Other members on the National and Liberal side of the house are aware of the very significant investment that is taking place throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia—this includes the Leader of the Opposition who will be the beneficiary of a magnificent new hospital, which is 50 per cent larger than the old hospital that it will replace, in Busselton. In the Kimberley region, for instance—where I know members opposite were recently trying to find a candidate to contest that seat—the government is rebuilding every hospital. Fitzroy Crossing has a magnificent new facility that the member for Kimberley and I opened in recent weeks. Halls Creek got a brand-new hospital last year. The Premier went to Kununurra late last year and opened a very significant extension to the Kununurra District Hospital. We are effectively rebuilding Broome District Hospital with a $50 million investment. Most recently announced and most importantly, because the matter was raised by the coroner in his report on alcohol-related deaths in the Kimberley, for the first time for the northern half of the state, a mental health inpatient unit is being constructed to service both the Pilbara and the Kimberley regions that will result in about 30 additional mental health professionals being located in the northern half of the state. This is a story that goes on throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia. There is a brand-new hospital in Port Hedland; stage one is already completed and stage two construction is about to start on a magnificent facility. The new hospital in Geraldton, which we committed to and have built, was opened by the Premier, I think, two years ago—it was about that time. We have massive investment lined up to go into all the areas that we are designating as regional resource centres. I have already mentioned Broome, Port Hedland and Geraldton, but there is also Kalgoorlie, a $50 million investment in Albany, and a massive investment in Bunbury. Many members opposite were in Bunbury recently when we opened not only the new dental facility, but also the new mental health clinic, which resulted in a doubling of the size of the mental health inpatient unit to service the people of the south west of Western Australia. I could go on; there are many other examples that I have not had time to mention today. Several members interjected. Mr J.A. McGINTY : Therefore, can I just say this: I appreciate there is an interplay between the Liberals and the Nationals in respect of any issue in the bush. However, I think anyone can see an unprecedented level of government commitment that is delivering excellence in health care so that a lot more people can be treated locally in the regions where they live so they do not have to travel to Perth for treatment.
In the Kimberley region, for instance—where I know members opposite were recently trying to find a candidate to contest that seat—the government is rebuilding every hospital. Fitzroy Crossing has a magnificent new facility that the member for Kimberley and I opened in recent weeks. Halls Creek got a brand-new hospital last year. The Premier went to Kununurra late last year and opened a very significant extension to the Kununurra District Hospital. We are effectively rebuilding Broome District Hospital with a $50 million investment. Most recently announced and most importantly, because the matter was raised by the coroner in his report on alcohol-related deaths in the Kimberley, for the first time for the northern half of the state, a mental health inpatient unit is being constructed to service both the Pilbara and the Kimberley regions that will result in about 30 additional mental health professionals being located in the northern half of the state. This is a story that goes on throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia. There is a brand-new hospital in Port Hedland; stage one is already completed and stage two construction is about to start on a magnificent facility. The new hospital in Geraldton, which we committed to and have built, was opened by the Premier, I think, two years ago—it was about that time. We have massive investment lined up to go into all the areas that we are designating as regional resource centres. I have already mentioned Broome, Port Hedland and Geraldton, but there is also Kalgoorlie, a $50 million investment in Albany, and a massive investment in Bunbury. Many members opposite were in Bunbury recently when we opened not only the new dental facility, but also the new mental health clinic, which resulted in a doubling of the size of the mental health inpatient unit to service the people of the south west of Western Australia. I could go on; there are many other examples that I have not had time to mention today. Several members interjected. Mr J.A. McGINTY : Therefore, can I just say this: I appreciate there is an interplay between the Liberals and the Nationals in respect of any issue in the bush. However, I think anyone can see an unprecedented level of government commitment that is delivering excellence in health care so that a lot more people can be treated locally in the regions where they live so they do not have to travel to Perth for treatment.
There is a brand-new hospital in Port Hedland; stage one is already completed and stage two construction is about to start on a magnificent facility. The new hospital in Geraldton, which we committed to and have built, was opened by the Premier, I think, two years ago—it was about that time. We have massive investment lined up to go into all the areas that we are designating as regional resource centres. I have already mentioned Broome, Port Hedland and Geraldton, but there is also Kalgoorlie, a $50 million investment in Albany, and a massive investment in Bunbury. Many members opposite were in Bunbury recently when we opened not only the new dental facility, but also the new mental health clinic, which resulted in a doubling of the size of the mental health inpatient unit to service the people of the south west of Western Australia. I could go on; there are many other examples that I have not had time to mention today. Several members interjected. Mr J.A. McGINTY : Therefore, can I just say this: I appreciate there is an interplay between the Liberals and the Nationals in respect of any issue in the bush. However, I think anyone can see an unprecedented level of government commitment that is delivering excellence in health care so that a lot more people can be treated locally in the regions where they live so they do not have to travel to Perth for treatment.
Several members interjected. Mr J.A. McGINTY : Therefore, can I just say this: I appreciate there is an interplay between the Liberals and the Nationals in respect of any issue in the bush. However, I think anyone can see an unprecedented level of government commitment that is delivering excellence in health care so that a lot more people can be treated locally in the regions where they live so they do not have to travel to Perth for treatment.
Mr J.A. McGINTY : Therefore, can I just say this: I appreciate there is an interplay between the Liberals and the Nationals in respect of any issue in the bush. However, I think anyone can see an unprecedented level of government commitment that is delivering excellence in health care so that a lot more people can be treated locally in the regions where they live so they do not have to travel to Perth for treatment.
(1) Has the minister taken steps to ascertain from Mrs O’Farrell what locations are now “blatantly bloody unsafe”; and, if not, why not? (2) What does the minister say about Mrs O’Farrell’s claim of “ongoing relentless chronic neglect” in primary health care and emergency medical management due to the “‘metrocentric’ attitudes” of governments and bureaucrats? (3) Does the minister concede that Mrs O’Farrell, who says she has been involved in the country health system for 40 years, might be correct about the dangerous side effects of the minister’s government’s country health policy? (4) Did Mrs O’Farrell raise any of her alarming claims with the minister while she still held the top job in country health, or would that have been a sackable offence? Mr J.A. McGINTY replied: (1)-(4) The answer to the last question is no. Mrs O’Farrell, when she was in charge of country health services in Western Australia for a very long period of time, did not raise those matters in those terms with me. Therefore, I am a little surprised to hear her rather intemperate outburst; nonetheless, I take that on board as a comment from somebody — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr J.A. McGINTY : — who was once in charge of administering this area of health care. I have not spoken to Mrs O’Farrell since, if my memory serves me correctly, I spoke and wished her well on her retirement from the health department last year. A massive investment is taking place throughout Western Australia today in health services in the country, and the member for Merredin knows that perfectly well. The member sitting immediately behind the member for Merredin is benefiting from a magnificent new hospital in his electorate in Denmark, and I understand that is coming on very well at the moment. Other members on the National and Liberal side of the house are aware of the very significant investment that is taking place throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia—this includes the Leader of the Opposition who will be the beneficiary of a magnificent new hospital, which is 50 per cent larger than the old hospital that it will replace, in Busselton. In the Kimberley region, for instance—where I know members opposite were recently trying to find a candidate to contest that seat—the government is rebuilding every hospital. Fitzroy Crossing has a magnificent new facility that the member for Kimberley and I opened in recent weeks. Halls Creek got a brand-new hospital last year. The Premier went to Kununurra late last year and opened a very significant extension to the Kununurra District Hospital. We are effectively rebuilding Broome District Hospital with a $50 million investment. Most recently announced and most importantly, because the matter was raised by the coroner in his report on alcohol-related deaths in the Kimberley, for the first time for the northern half of the state, a mental health inpatient unit is being constructed to service both the Pilbara and the Kimberley regions that will result in about 30 additional mental health professionals being located in the northern half of the state. This is a story that goes on throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia. There is a brand-new hospital in Port Hedland; stage one is already completed and stage two construction is about to start on a magnificent facility. The new hospital in Geraldton, which we committed to and have built, was opened by the Premier, I think, two years ago—it was about that time. We have massive investment lined up to go into all the areas that we are designating as regional resource centres. I have already mentioned Broome, Port Hedland and Geraldton, but there is also Kalgoorlie, a $50 million investment in Albany, and a massive investment in Bunbury. Many members opposite were in Bunbury recently when we opened not only the new dental facility, but also the new mental health clinic, which resulted in a doubling of the size of the mental health inpatient unit to service the people of the south west of Western Australia. I could go on; there are many other examples that I have not had time to mention today. Several members interjected. Mr J.A. McGINTY : Therefore, can I just say this: I appreciate there is an interplay between the Liberals and the Nationals in respect of any issue in the bush. However, I think anyone can see an unprecedented level of government commitment that is delivering excellence in health care so that a lot more people can be treated locally in the regions where they live so they do not have to travel to Perth for treatment.
(2) What does the minister say about Mrs O’Farrell’s claim of “ongoing relentless chronic neglect” in primary health care and emergency medical management due to the “‘metrocentric’ attitudes” of governments and bureaucrats? (3) Does the minister concede that Mrs O’Farrell, who says she has been involved in the country health system for 40 years, might be correct about the dangerous side effects of the minister’s government’s country health policy? (4) Did Mrs O’Farrell raise any of her alarming claims with the minister while she still held the top job in country health, or would that have been a sackable offence? Mr J.A. McGINTY replied: (1)-(4) The answer to the last question is no. Mrs O’Farrell, when she was in charge of country health services in Western Australia for a very long period of time, did not raise those matters in those terms with me. Therefore, I am a little surprised to hear her rather intemperate outburst; nonetheless, I take that on board as a comment from somebody — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr J.A. McGINTY : — who was once in charge of administering this area of health care. I have not spoken to Mrs O’Farrell since, if my memory serves me correctly, I spoke and wished her well on her retirement from the health department last year. A massive investment is taking place throughout Western Australia today in health services in the country, and the member for Merredin knows that perfectly well. The member sitting immediately behind the member for Merredin is benefiting from a magnificent new hospital in his electorate in Denmark, and I understand that is coming on very well at the moment. Other members on the National and Liberal side of the house are aware of the very significant investment that is taking place throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia—this includes the Leader of the Opposition who will be the beneficiary of a magnificent new hospital, which is 50 per cent larger than the old hospital that it will replace, in Busselton. In the Kimberley region, for instance—where I know members opposite were recently trying to find a candidate to contest that seat—the government is rebuilding every hospital. Fitzroy Crossing has a magnificent new facility that the member for Kimberley and I opened in recent weeks. Halls Creek got a brand-new hospital last year. The Premier went to Kununurra late last year and opened a very significant extension to the Kununurra District Hospital. We are effectively rebuilding Broome District Hospital with a $50 million investment. Most recently announced and most importantly, because the matter was raised by the coroner in his report on alcohol-related deaths in the Kimberley, for the first time for the northern half of the state, a mental health inpatient unit is being constructed to service both the Pilbara and the Kimberley regions that will result in about 30 additional mental health professionals being located in the northern half of the state. This is a story that goes on throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia. There is a brand-new hospital in Port Hedland; stage one is already completed and stage two construction is about to start on a magnificent facility. The new hospital in Geraldton, which we committed to and have built, was opened by the Premier, I think, two years ago—it was about that time. We have massive investment lined up to go into all the areas that we are designating as regional resource centres. I have already mentioned Broome, Port Hedland and Geraldton, but there is also Kalgoorlie, a $50 million investment in Albany, and a massive investment in Bunbury. Many members opposite were in Bunbury recently when we opened not only the new dental facility, but also the new mental health clinic, which resulted in a doubling of the size of the mental health inpatient unit to service the people of the south west of Western Australia. I could go on; there are many other examples that I have not had time to mention today. Several members interjected. Mr J.A. McGINTY : Therefore, can I just say this: I appreciate there is an interplay between the Liberals and the Nationals in respect of any issue in the bush. However, I think anyone can see an unprecedented level of government commitment that is delivering excellence in health care so that a lot more people can be treated locally in the regions where they live so they do not have to travel to Perth for treatment.
(3) Does the minister concede that Mrs O’Farrell, who says she has been involved in the country health system for 40 years, might be correct about the dangerous side effects of the minister’s government’s country health policy? (4) Did Mrs O’Farrell raise any of her alarming claims with the minister while she still held the top job in country health, or would that have been a sackable offence? Mr J.A. McGINTY replied: (1)-(4) The answer to the last question is no. Mrs O’Farrell, when she was in charge of country health services in Western Australia for a very long period of time, did not raise those matters in those terms with me. Therefore, I am a little surprised to hear her rather intemperate outburst; nonetheless, I take that on board as a comment from somebody — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr J.A. McGINTY : — who was once in charge of administering this area of health care. I have not spoken to Mrs O’Farrell since, if my memory serves me correctly, I spoke and wished her well on her retirement from the health department last year. A massive investment is taking place throughout Western Australia today in health services in the country, and the member for Merredin knows that perfectly well. The member sitting immediately behind the member for Merredin is benefiting from a magnificent new hospital in his electorate in Denmark, and I understand that is coming on very well at the moment. Other members on the National and Liberal side of the house are aware of the very significant investment that is taking place throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia—this includes the Leader of the Opposition who will be the beneficiary of a magnificent new hospital, which is 50 per cent larger than the old hospital that it will replace, in Busselton. In the Kimberley region, for instance—where I know members opposite were recently trying to find a candidate to contest that seat—the government is rebuilding every hospital. Fitzroy Crossing has a magnificent new facility that the member for Kimberley and I opened in recent weeks. Halls Creek got a brand-new hospital last year. The Premier went to Kununurra late last year and opened a very significant extension to the Kununurra District Hospital. We are effectively rebuilding Broome District Hospital with a $50 million investment. Most recently announced and most importantly, because the matter was raised by the coroner in his report on alcohol-related deaths in the Kimberley, for the first time for the northern half of the state, a mental health inpatient unit is being constructed to service both the Pilbara and the Kimberley regions that will result in about 30 additional mental health professionals being located in the northern half of the state. This is a story that goes on throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia. There is a brand-new hospital in Port Hedland; stage one is already completed and stage two construction is about to start on a magnificent facility. The new hospital in Geraldton, which we committed to and have built, was opened by the Premier, I think, two years ago—it was about that time. We have massive investment lined up to go into all the areas that we are designating as regional resource centres. I have already mentioned Broome, Port Hedland and Geraldton, but there is also Kalgoorlie, a $50 million investment in Albany, and a massive investment in Bunbury. Many members opposite were in Bunbury recently when we opened not only the new dental facility, but also the new mental health clinic, which resulted in a doubling of the size of the mental health inpatient unit to service the people of the south west of Western Australia. I could go on; there are many other examples that I have not had time to mention today. Several members interjected. Mr J.A. McGINTY : Therefore, can I just say this: I appreciate there is an interplay between the Liberals and the Nationals in respect of any issue in the bush. However, I think anyone can see an unprecedented level of government commitment that is delivering excellence in health care so that a lot more people can be treated locally in the regions where they live so they do not have to travel to Perth for treatment.
(4) Did Mrs O’Farrell raise any of her alarming claims with the minister while she still held the top job in country health, or would that have been a sackable offence? Mr J.A. McGINTY replied: (1)-(4) The answer to the last question is no. Mrs O’Farrell, when she was in charge of country health services in Western Australia for a very long period of time, did not raise those matters in those terms with me. Therefore, I am a little surprised to hear her rather intemperate outburst; nonetheless, I take that on board as a comment from somebody — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr J.A. McGINTY : — who was once in charge of administering this area of health care. I have not spoken to Mrs O’Farrell since, if my memory serves me correctly, I spoke and wished her well on her retirement from the health department last year. A massive investment is taking place throughout Western Australia today in health services in the country, and the member for Merredin knows that perfectly well. The member sitting immediately behind the member for Merredin is benefiting from a magnificent new hospital in his electorate in Denmark, and I understand that is coming on very well at the moment. Other members on the National and Liberal side of the house are aware of the very significant investment that is taking place throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia—this includes the Leader of the Opposition who will be the beneficiary of a magnificent new hospital, which is 50 per cent larger than the old hospital that it will replace, in Busselton. In the Kimberley region, for instance—where I know members opposite were recently trying to find a candidate to contest that seat—the government is rebuilding every hospital. Fitzroy Crossing has a magnificent new facility that the member for Kimberley and I opened in recent weeks. Halls Creek got a brand-new hospital last year. The Premier went to Kununurra late last year and opened a very significant extension to the Kununurra District Hospital. We are effectively rebuilding Broome District Hospital with a $50 million investment. Most recently announced and most importantly, because the matter was raised by the coroner in his report on alcohol-related deaths in the Kimberley, for the first time for the northern half of the state, a mental health inpatient unit is being constructed to service both the Pilbara and the Kimberley regions that will result in about 30 additional mental health professionals being located in the northern half of the state. This is a story that goes on throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia. There is a brand-new hospital in Port Hedland; stage one is already completed and stage two construction is about to start on a magnificent facility. The new hospital in Geraldton, which we committed to and have built, was opened by the Premier, I think, two years ago—it was about that time. We have massive investment lined up to go into all the areas that we are designating as regional resource centres. I have already mentioned Broome, Port Hedland and Geraldton, but there is also Kalgoorlie, a $50 million investment in Albany, and a massive investment in Bunbury. Many members opposite were in Bunbury recently when we opened not only the new dental facility, but also the new mental health clinic, which resulted in a doubling of the size of the mental health inpatient unit to service the people of the south west of Western Australia. I could go on; there are many other examples that I have not had time to mention today. Several members interjected. Mr J.A. McGINTY : Therefore, can I just say this: I appreciate there is an interplay between the Liberals and the Nationals in respect of any issue in the bush. However, I think anyone can see an unprecedented level of government commitment that is delivering excellence in health care so that a lot more people can be treated locally in the regions where they live so they do not have to travel to Perth for treatment.
Mr J.A. McGINTY replied: (1)-(4) The answer to the last question is no. Mrs O’Farrell, when she was in charge of country health services in Western Australia for a very long period of time, did not raise those matters in those terms with me. Therefore, I am a little surprised to hear her rather intemperate outburst; nonetheless, I take that on board as a comment from somebody — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr J.A. McGINTY : — who was once in charge of administering this area of health care. I have not spoken to Mrs O’Farrell since, if my memory serves me correctly, I spoke and wished her well on her retirement from the health department last year. A massive investment is taking place throughout Western Australia today in health services in the country, and the member for Merredin knows that perfectly well. The member sitting immediately behind the member for Merredin is benefiting from a magnificent new hospital in his electorate in Denmark, and I understand that is coming on very well at the moment. Other members on the National and Liberal side of the house are aware of the very significant investment that is taking place throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia—this includes the Leader of the Opposition who will be the beneficiary of a magnificent new hospital, which is 50 per cent larger than the old hospital that it will replace, in Busselton. In the Kimberley region, for instance—where I know members opposite were recently trying to find a candidate to contest that seat—the government is rebuilding every hospital. Fitzroy Crossing has a magnificent new facility that the member for Kimberley and I opened in recent weeks. Halls Creek got a brand-new hospital last year. The Premier went to Kununurra late last year and opened a very significant extension to the Kununurra District Hospital. We are effectively rebuilding Broome District Hospital with a $50 million investment. Most recently announced and most importantly, because the matter was raised by the coroner in his report on alcohol-related deaths in the Kimberley, for the first time for the northern half of the state, a mental health inpatient unit is being constructed to service both the Pilbara and the Kimberley regions that will result in about 30 additional mental health professionals being located in the northern half of the state. This is a story that goes on throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia. There is a brand-new hospital in Port Hedland; stage one is already completed and stage two construction is about to start on a magnificent facility. The new hospital in Geraldton, which we committed to and have built, was opened by the Premier, I think, two years ago—it was about that time. We have massive investment lined up to go into all the areas that we are designating as regional resource centres. I have already mentioned Broome, Port Hedland and Geraldton, but there is also Kalgoorlie, a $50 million investment in Albany, and a massive investment in Bunbury. Many members opposite were in Bunbury recently when we opened not only the new dental facility, but also the new mental health clinic, which resulted in a doubling of the size of the mental health inpatient unit to service the people of the south west of Western Australia. I could go on; there are many other examples that I have not had time to mention today. Several members interjected. Mr J.A. McGINTY : Therefore, can I just say this: I appreciate there is an interplay between the Liberals and the Nationals in respect of any issue in the bush. However, I think anyone can see an unprecedented level of government commitment that is delivering excellence in health care so that a lot more people can be treated locally in the regions where they live so they do not have to travel to Perth for treatment.
(1)-(4) The answer to the last question is no. Mrs O’Farrell, when she was in charge of country health services in Western Australia for a very long period of time, did not raise those matters in those terms with me. Therefore, I am a little surprised to hear her rather intemperate outburst; nonetheless, I take that on board as a comment from somebody — Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr J.A. McGINTY : — who was once in charge of administering this area of health care. I have not spoken to Mrs O’Farrell since, if my memory serves me correctly, I spoke and wished her well on her retirement from the health department last year. A massive investment is taking place throughout Western Australia today in health services in the country, and the member for Merredin knows that perfectly well. The member sitting immediately behind the member for Merredin is benefiting from a magnificent new hospital in his electorate in Denmark, and I understand that is coming on very well at the moment. Other members on the National and Liberal side of the house are aware of the very significant investment that is taking place throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia—this includes the Leader of the Opposition who will be the beneficiary of a magnificent new hospital, which is 50 per cent larger than the old hospital that it will replace, in Busselton. In the Kimberley region, for instance—where I know members opposite were recently trying to find a candidate to contest that seat—the government is rebuilding every hospital. Fitzroy Crossing has a magnificent new facility that the member for Kimberley and I opened in recent weeks. Halls Creek got a brand-new hospital last year. The Premier went to Kununurra late last year and opened a very significant extension to the Kununurra District Hospital. We are effectively rebuilding Broome District Hospital with a $50 million investment. Most recently announced and most importantly, because the matter was raised by the coroner in his report on alcohol-related deaths in the Kimberley, for the first time for the northern half of the state, a mental health inpatient unit is being constructed to service both the Pilbara and the Kimberley regions that will result in about 30 additional mental health professionals being located in the northern half of the state. This is a story that goes on throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia. There is a brand-new hospital in Port Hedland; stage one is already completed and stage two construction is about to start on a magnificent facility. The new hospital in Geraldton, which we committed to and have built, was opened by the Premier, I think, two years ago—it was about that time. We have massive investment lined up to go into all the areas that we are designating as regional resource centres. I have already mentioned Broome, Port Hedland and Geraldton, but there is also Kalgoorlie, a $50 million investment in Albany, and a massive investment in Bunbury. Many members opposite were in Bunbury recently when we opened not only the new dental facility, but also the new mental health clinic, which resulted in a doubling of the size of the mental health inpatient unit to service the people of the south west of Western Australia. I could go on; there are many other examples that I have not had time to mention today. Several members interjected. Mr J.A. McGINTY : Therefore, can I just say this: I appreciate there is an interplay between the Liberals and the Nationals in respect of any issue in the bush. However, I think anyone can see an unprecedented level of government commitment that is delivering excellence in health care so that a lot more people can be treated locally in the regions where they live so they do not have to travel to Perth for treatment.
Several members interjected. The SPEAKER : Order! Mr J.A. McGINTY : — who was once in charge of administering this area of health care. I have not spoken to Mrs O’Farrell since, if my memory serves me correctly, I spoke and wished her well on her retirement from the health department last year. A massive investment is taking place throughout Western Australia today in health services in the country, and the member for Merredin knows that perfectly well. The member sitting immediately behind the member for Merredin is benefiting from a magnificent new hospital in his electorate in Denmark, and I understand that is coming on very well at the moment. Other members on the National and Liberal side of the house are aware of the very significant investment that is taking place throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia—this includes the Leader of the Opposition who will be the beneficiary of a magnificent new hospital, which is 50 per cent larger than the old hospital that it will replace, in Busselton. In the Kimberley region, for instance—where I know members opposite were recently trying to find a candidate to contest that seat—the government is rebuilding every hospital. Fitzroy Crossing has a magnificent new facility that the member for Kimberley and I opened in recent weeks. Halls Creek got a brand-new hospital last year. The Premier went to Kununurra late last year and opened a very significant extension to the Kununurra District Hospital. We are effectively rebuilding Broome District Hospital with a $50 million investment. Most recently announced and most importantly, because the matter was raised by the coroner in his report on alcohol-related deaths in the Kimberley, for the first time for the northern half of the state, a mental health inpatient unit is being constructed to service both the Pilbara and the Kimberley regions that will result in about 30 additional mental health professionals being located in the northern half of the state. This is a story that goes on throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia. There is a brand-new hospital in Port Hedland; stage one is already completed and stage two construction is about to start on a magnificent facility. The new hospital in Geraldton, which we committed to and have built, was opened by the Premier, I think, two years ago—it was about that time. We have massive investment lined up to go into all the areas that we are designating as regional resource centres. I have already mentioned Broome, Port Hedland and Geraldton, but there is also Kalgoorlie, a $50 million investment in Albany, and a massive investment in Bunbury. Many members opposite were in Bunbury recently when we opened not only the new dental facility, but also the new mental health clinic, which resulted in a doubling of the size of the mental health inpatient unit to service the people of the south west of Western Australia. I could go on; there are many other examples that I have not had time to mention today. Several members interjected. Mr J.A. McGINTY : Therefore, can I just say this: I appreciate there is an interplay between the Liberals and the Nationals in respect of any issue in the bush. However, I think anyone can see an unprecedented level of government commitment that is delivering excellence in health care so that a lot more people can be treated locally in the regions where they live so they do not have to travel to Perth for treatment.
The SPEAKER : Order! Mr J.A. McGINTY : — who was once in charge of administering this area of health care. I have not spoken to Mrs O’Farrell since, if my memory serves me correctly, I spoke and wished her well on her retirement from the health department last year. A massive investment is taking place throughout Western Australia today in health services in the country, and the member for Merredin knows that perfectly well. The member sitting immediately behind the member for Merredin is benefiting from a magnificent new hospital in his electorate in Denmark, and I understand that is coming on very well at the moment. Other members on the National and Liberal side of the house are aware of the very significant investment that is taking place throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia—this includes the Leader of the Opposition who will be the beneficiary of a magnificent new hospital, which is 50 per cent larger than the old hospital that it will replace, in Busselton. In the Kimberley region, for instance—where I know members opposite were recently trying to find a candidate to contest that seat—the government is rebuilding every hospital. Fitzroy Crossing has a magnificent new facility that the member for Kimberley and I opened in recent weeks. Halls Creek got a brand-new hospital last year. The Premier went to Kununurra late last year and opened a very significant extension to the Kununurra District Hospital. We are effectively rebuilding Broome District Hospital with a $50 million investment. Most recently announced and most importantly, because the matter was raised by the coroner in his report on alcohol-related deaths in the Kimberley, for the first time for the northern half of the state, a mental health inpatient unit is being constructed to service both the Pilbara and the Kimberley regions that will result in about 30 additional mental health professionals being located in the northern half of the state. This is a story that goes on throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia. There is a brand-new hospital in Port Hedland; stage one is already completed and stage two construction is about to start on a magnificent facility. The new hospital in Geraldton, which we committed to and have built, was opened by the Premier, I think, two years ago—it was about that time. We have massive investment lined up to go into all the areas that we are designating as regional resource centres. I have already mentioned Broome, Port Hedland and Geraldton, but there is also Kalgoorlie, a $50 million investment in Albany, and a massive investment in Bunbury. Many members opposite were in Bunbury recently when we opened not only the new dental facility, but also the new mental health clinic, which resulted in a doubling of the size of the mental health inpatient unit to service the people of the south west of Western Australia. I could go on; there are many other examples that I have not had time to mention today. Several members interjected. Mr J.A. McGINTY : Therefore, can I just say this: I appreciate there is an interplay between the Liberals and the Nationals in respect of any issue in the bush. However, I think anyone can see an unprecedented level of government commitment that is delivering excellence in health care so that a lot more people can be treated locally in the regions where they live so they do not have to travel to Perth for treatment.
Mr J.A. McGINTY : — who was once in charge of administering this area of health care. I have not spoken to Mrs O’Farrell since, if my memory serves me correctly, I spoke and wished her well on her retirement from the health department last year. A massive investment is taking place throughout Western Australia today in health services in the country, and the member for Merredin knows that perfectly well. The member sitting immediately behind the member for Merredin is benefiting from a magnificent new hospital in his electorate in Denmark, and I understand that is coming on very well at the moment. Other members on the National and Liberal side of the house are aware of the very significant investment that is taking place throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia—this includes the Leader of the Opposition who will be the beneficiary of a magnificent new hospital, which is 50 per cent larger than the old hospital that it will replace, in Busselton. In the Kimberley region, for instance—where I know members opposite were recently trying to find a candidate to contest that seat—the government is rebuilding every hospital. Fitzroy Crossing has a magnificent new facility that the member for Kimberley and I opened in recent weeks. Halls Creek got a brand-new hospital last year. The Premier went to Kununurra late last year and opened a very significant extension to the Kununurra District Hospital. We are effectively rebuilding Broome District Hospital with a $50 million investment. Most recently announced and most importantly, because the matter was raised by the coroner in his report on alcohol-related deaths in the Kimberley, for the first time for the northern half of the state, a mental health inpatient unit is being constructed to service both the Pilbara and the Kimberley regions that will result in about 30 additional mental health professionals being located in the northern half of the state. This is a story that goes on throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia. There is a brand-new hospital in Port Hedland; stage one is already completed and stage two construction is about to start on a magnificent facility. The new hospital in Geraldton, which we committed to and have built, was opened by the Premier, I think, two years ago—it was about that time. We have massive investment lined up to go into all the areas that we are designating as regional resource centres. I have already mentioned Broome, Port Hedland and Geraldton, but there is also Kalgoorlie, a $50 million investment in Albany, and a massive investment in Bunbury. Many members opposite were in Bunbury recently when we opened not only the new dental facility, but also the new mental health clinic, which resulted in a doubling of the size of the mental health inpatient unit to service the people of the south west of Western Australia. I could go on; there are many other examples that I have not had time to mention today. Several members interjected. Mr J.A. McGINTY : Therefore, can I just say this: I appreciate there is an interplay between the Liberals and the Nationals in respect of any issue in the bush. However, I think anyone can see an unprecedented level of government commitment that is delivering excellence in health care so that a lot more people can be treated locally in the regions where they live so they do not have to travel to Perth for treatment.
In the Kimberley region, for instance—where I know members opposite were recently trying to find a candidate to contest that seat—the government is rebuilding every hospital. Fitzroy Crossing has a magnificent new facility that the member for Kimberley and I opened in recent weeks. Halls Creek got a brand-new hospital last year. The Premier went to Kununurra late last year and opened a very significant extension to the Kununurra District Hospital. We are effectively rebuilding Broome District Hospital with a $50 million investment. Most recently announced and most importantly, because the matter was raised by the coroner in his report on alcohol-related deaths in the Kimberley, for the first time for the northern half of the state, a mental health inpatient unit is being constructed to service both the Pilbara and the Kimberley regions that will result in about 30 additional mental health professionals being located in the northern half of the state. This is a story that goes on throughout the length and breadth of Western Australia. There is a brand-new hospital in Port Hedland; stage one is already completed and stage two construction is about to start on a magnificent facility. The new hospital in Geraldton, which we committed to and have built, was opened by the Premier, I think, two years ago—it was about that time. We have massive investment lined up to go into all the areas that we are designating as regional resource centres. I have already mentioned Broome, Port Hedland and Geraldton, but there is also Kalgoorlie, a $50 million investment in Albany, and a massive investment in Bunbury. Many members opposite were in Bunbury recently when we opened not only the new dental facility, but also the new mental health clinic, which resulted in a doubling of the size of the mental health inpatient unit to service the people of the south west of Western Australia. I could go on; there are many other examples that I have not had time to mention today. Several members interjected. Mr J.A. McGINTY : Therefore, can I just say this: I appreciate there is an interplay between the Liberals and the Nationals in respect of any issue in the bush. However, I think anyone can see an unprecedented level of government commitment that is delivering excellence in health care so that a lot more people can be treated locally in the regions where they live so they do not have to travel to Perth for treatment.
There is a brand-new hospital in Port Hedland; stage one is already completed and stage two construction is about to start on a magnificent facility. The new hospital in Geraldton, which we committed to and have built, was opened by the Premier, I think, two years ago—it was about that time. We have massive investment lined up to go into all the areas that we are designating as regional resource centres. I have already mentioned Broome, Port Hedland and Geraldton, but there is also Kalgoorlie, a $50 million investment in Albany, and a massive investment in Bunbury. Many members opposite were in Bunbury recently when we opened not only the new dental facility, but also the new mental health clinic, which resulted in a doubling of the size of the mental health inpatient unit to service the people of the south west of Western Australia. I could go on; there are many other examples that I have not had time to mention today. Several members interjected. Mr J.A. McGINTY : Therefore, can I just say this: I appreciate there is an interplay between the Liberals and the Nationals in respect of any issue in the bush. However, I think anyone can see an unprecedented level of government commitment that is delivering excellence in health care so that a lot more people can be treated locally in the regions where they live so they do not have to travel to Perth for treatment.
Several members interjected. Mr J.A. McGINTY : Therefore, can I just say this: I appreciate there is an interplay between the Liberals and the Nationals in respect of any issue in the bush. However, I think anyone can see an unprecedented level of government commitment that is delivering excellence in health care so that a lot more people can be treated locally in the regions where they live so they do not have to travel to Perth for treatment.
Mr J.A. McGINTY : Therefore, can I just say this: I appreciate there is an interplay between the Liberals and the Nationals in respect of any issue in the bush. However, I think anyone can see an unprecedented level of government commitment that is delivering excellence in health care so that a lot more people can be treated locally in the regions where they live so they do not have to travel to Perth for treatment.
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