Counselling services at Rockingham Women's Health Centres to continue

21/11/95

Health Minister Graham Kierath said today counselling services at the Rockingham Women's Health and Information Centre would continue.

Mr Kierath said despite publicity to the contrary, the services were not in jeopardy and would continue to be funded.

"South Metropolitan MLC Barbara Scott made representation to me on this matter," Mr Kierath said.

"Following this, the funding procedures for the centre's counselling programs were re-evaluated.

"Base funding provided by both the Commonwealth and State Governments has been provided for these services over a number of years and will be provided in the 1995-96 financial year at the same level as 1994-95.

"A pilot project to provide postpartum depression counselling began at the centre last year and will continue to be funded for the next financial year.

"In addition, once-only funds were made available in 1994-95 to allow the general counselling service to be provided until June 30, 1995.

"The centre has been offered a further $25,000 in special funding towards funding this service."

Mr Kierath said the special funding was in the process of being finalised.

"There should be no doubt in the minds of those who contacted me with concerns over this issue that the service will continue," he said.

Media contact:  Caroline Lacy  222 9595 or 481 2133