Hampstead Rehabilitation Centre

Mr PICTON (Kaurna) (15:02): My question is to the Premier. Is KordaMentha conducting a review of Ward 2A at Hampstead with its 25 beds, and how long will these beds be open for? With your leave, and that of the house, sir, I will explain.

Leave granted.

Mr PICTON: Ward 2A at Hampstead has 25 beds and it was originally proposed by the government to be closed in October. The minister agreed to continue to have it open following objections from clinical groups. The Premier told the parliament through a response to a question on notice last week: 'Ward 2A will remain open while the ongoing need for the beds is reviewed.'

The Hon. S.S. MARSHALL (Dunstan—Premier) (15:03): It's difficult to add anything further to that answer that I have already provided to the house. You have woven KordaMentha back in again. The reality is that KordaMentha have been appointed to do work and provide services to the chief executive and the board of CALHN on the financial mismanagement of that local health network.

We really are astounded at the question regarding services at Hampstead. This was a position of the previous government to close services on that site, and we have stopped any closure of those pending further advice. I think that is the responsible way to go. I am happy to get an update on the deliberations that are taking place regarding Hampstead and come back to the house.