Page 3069 - Week 14 - Tuesday, 5 December 1989
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(4) Have attempts to reduce this overlap been unsuccessful; if so (a) why and (b) which groups/organisations are opposing the move to abolish the overlap.
(5) What is the Minister's assessment of the arguments against eliminating the overlap.
(6) Will the Minister take direct action to eliminate the overlap; if not, why not.
(7) Has the interim board recommended that this overlap be eliminated.
Mr Berry: The answer to Mr Humphries' question is as follows:
(1) & (2)
As I have already stated in the Assembly the bottom line of the Government's budget saving will be achieved and that is being worked towards in negotiations with the unions at the moment.
(3) I understand that similar shift overlaps exist in some hospitals around Australia. I have asked my Department to examine the prevalence of the practice and provide me with a report.
(4) I am not aware of any attempt in the past to remove this overlap.
(5) The Government in its Interim Budget statement identified the removal of this short overlap as a savings measure. It was put to one side after the Budget Consultative Process and is now being considered along with other alternatives.
(6) The removal of this overlap is presently the subject of consultation with relevant unions. The Government will make a decision on the issue when this consultation is complete.
(7) As I have indicated the overlap was identified in the preparation of the Budget, and the Board has subsequently indicated to me that they agree with this approach.
Hospital Services
(Question No. 53)
Mr Humphries asked the Minister for Community Services and Health, upon notice, on 15 November 1989:
(1) Does the ACT need an independent board with sufficient power to be able to implement cost saving measures for effective management of Canberra hospitals.
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