NSW — A
Liberal/Nationals Coalition Government would provide an
extra $13 million a year for the Program of Appliances
for Disabled People (PADP), to help children like Lewis
Cass get the equipment they need, Shadow Minister for
Disability Services John Ryan said today.
The PADP is a State Government
funded scheme that provides funding for equipment such as
wheelchairs, walking frames and sticks, pressure care
mattresses and cushions, beds, communication devices,
continence items and personal assistance items (shower
commodes, bath seats).
"Two year old Lewis Cass, who has
been left waiting for months without a motorised
wheelchair, represents the tip of the iceberg when it
comes to this problem. Many people with disabilities have
been left waiting for months and years waiting for vital
equipment," Mr Ryan said.
"The Premier should apologise to
the Cass family and immediately deliver the wheelchair
they were promised 2 months ago," he said.
"The Government should stop trying
to spin this problem away and just deliver this sick
little boy the wheelchair they promised to give
him.
"Lewis Cass and others have been
left waiting because a penny pinching State Government
has left this program under-funded for many
years"
"In 1997, a report to the State
Government admitted that the PAPD scheme was under funded
by 71 per cent. "
"Respected peak disability
organisations such as the Physical Disability Council
estimate that the current budget for disability equipment
should be at least $35 million a year to meet the level
of demand documented in that report. "
The 2004/05 budget allocation for
PADP is $22 million, leaving a shortfall of
$13million.
"The State Government has plenty of
money for ministerial office fit outs and political
advertising campaigns, but is neglecting people with
disabilities who need
"People should not be reduced to
begging for equipment like wheelchairs in the
media."
"If the Iemma Government will not
address this issue now a future Coalition Government
will, by providing the PAPD with $35 million of yearly
funding, $13 million more than is currently provided," Mr
Ryan said.
