McCORMACK DISMAYED BY LOSS OF AGED CARE FACILITIES IN CENTRAL WEST

Federal Member for Riverina Michael McCormack has expressed his dismay after learning Salvation Army Aged Care will be divesting its residential aged care services in Central West New South Wales.

 As part of its divestment, Rosedurnate Aged Care Centre and Retirement Village in Parkes will be closed, whilst Moyne Aged Care Centre in Canowindra will be acquired by Roshana Care Group.

 “This is just dreadful and disastrous for the people of the Riverina and Central West,” Mr McCormack said.

 “With the closure of Parkes’ Rosedurnate Aged Care Centre and Retirement Village, about 45 residents will be displaced, with no clear facility at which they will be rehomed.

 “I’m calling on the Government for urgent intervention into this matter to ensure no resident is left without adequate care.

 “Just because a place such as Parkes or Canowindra is four or so hours from Sydney does not mean their residents are any less deserving of first-class aged care and retirement facilities.

 “When I spoke to Parkes Shire Mayor Cr Neil Westcott, he described the situation as ‘a disaster and a disgrace’ – and I wholeheartedly agree with his description.

 “It is clear this Government’s policies have made it tougher for regional, rural and remote aged care providers to operate – and this needs to change.

 “We cannot leave our most vulnerable out on a lurch and I will continue to work hard with all stakeholders to seek a desirable outcome for all parties concerned.”

ENDS