24 October 2008

Minister condemns Opposition scaremongering on Cancer Institute

Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), Tony Stewart, today condemned the NSW Opposition for scaremongering on the issue of the Cancer Institute NSW.

"Despite what the Opposition is bandying around, I want to categorically say there will be no merger of the Cancer Institute NSW with NSW Health," Mr Stewart said.

"I want to be absolutely clear on this issue.

"And I reiterate my strong support for the outstanding work and achievements of the Rees Labor Government's Cancer Institute NSW and, as the Minister responsible, I will continue to highlight its successes and provide assistance where possible.

"There will be no cut to the Cancer Institute's frontline services, but the Institute will have to make savings just as everyone else will be asked to make savings across the public sector - but these will not come from services, they'll come from executive positions and administrative savings.

"The Opposition is playing politics with one of the NSW Government's most highly regarded agencies which is responsible for carrying out lifesaving activities," Mr Stewart said.

For a range of health information, go online to www.health.nsw.gov.au