Queensland Government Under Fire Over Mining Funded Hospital and Upgrades
The Queensland Government has come under criticism by a state MP for agreeing to have health care financed by the mining industry. The Queensland Gas company is going to fund the construction of a new satellite renal unit at Gladstone hospital and upgrades to the operating theatre, as announced by Premier Anna Bligh.
The initial construction will be handled by QGC and then the ongoing costs will be handled by Queensland Health. However Gladstone MP Liz Cunningham said that the unit should be the responsibility of the state government. She said that the unit would be of great benefit to the community but it was to be questioned whether this Government is going to fund any infrastructure in Gladstone or is industry going to have to cover the costs of all infrastructure that we will need for the projected population growth?
In response Premier Anna Bligh said that the renal facility was not possible if QGC did not fund it. She said that the service is only possible because not only is the gas company donating money for the capital but the Queensland Government will be funding its operation not just straightaway but forever, that's a commitment of almost a quarter of $1 million.
Mining companies often invest in infrastructure and services in the communities they are a part of as the benefits of doing so are great. The renal unit is slated to be set up by the end of 2011 as are the upgrades to the operating theatre of the hospital.
Written by
Joel relocated to Australia in 1995 from the United Kingdom and spent five years working in the mining industry as an exploration geotechnician. His role involved utilizing GIS mapping and CAD software. Upon transitioning to the North Coast of NSW, Australia, Joel embarked on a career as a graphic designer at a well-known consultancy firm. Subsequently, he established a successful web services business catering to companies across the eastern seaboard of Australia. It was during this time that he conceived and launched News-Medical.Net. Joel has been an integral part of AZoNetwork since its inception in 2000. Joel possesses a keen interest in exploring the boundaries of technology, comprehending its potential impact on society, and actively engaging with AI-driven solutions and advancements.
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