Priority funding identified for Tumut.

GREATER Southern Area Health Service (GSAHS) has defended recent criticisms of the condition of Tumut Hospital and has confirmed the site is a priority for redevelopment.

Manager service and corporate planning, Janet Chapman says GSAHS acknowledges the longer term redevelopment of the Tumut Health Service (Tumut Hospital).

"The site has been has identified as a priority for funding by NSW Health," Ms Chapman said.

In the meantime she said the community could be assured the Tumut Health Service is a safe environment.

"GSAHS wants to reassure people that Tumut Health Service is an active, vital, positive place," Ms Chapman said.

"We are providing services and will continue to provide services there and some work has been undertaken to improve access to the site."

"We will always commit to maintain a safe environment."

A meeting outlining progress since the development of the Tumut Health Service Plan in November 2005, is set down for tonight at 5.30pm at the Tumut RSL Club.

"I encourage members of the community to come to the meeting and hear the positive progress that has been made at the site," Ms Chapman said.

"In the short term however, $250,000 in maintenance work has been undertaken to ensure the site remains safe and that it can continue to provide the important role it plays in the community."

By Doris Porritt

Wagga Daily Advertiser

May 30, 2006