Cootamundra MP Steph Cooke has encouraged Southern Cross Care (SCC) to pause relocating residents of Harden's St Lawrence residential aged care facility until negotiations with potential buyers are completed.
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Ms Cooke on Friday said a potential buyer was meeting with SCC and the Harden Regional Development Corporation to discuss a sale.
"I have been actively working with many stakeholders, including the MLHD, Southern Cross Care, Hilltops Council, the Harden Regional Development Corporation, local care providers and the Federal Aged Care Minister to find a resolution for the residents and families affected by this closure," Steph Cooke MP said.
"I am heartened a potential buyer is meeting with Southern Cross Care and the Harden Regional Development Corporation to discuss the possible sale of this asset.
"I am very pleased to have brought these groups to the table and opening this dialogue signals the end of my involvement in this part of the process.
"I appreciate the support of the Harden Regional Development Corporation in assisting with these negotiations.
"In the interest of the residents and families impacted by this closure I have encouraged Southern Cross Care to pause relocating residents until negotiations with potential buyers is completed.
"I want to see this facility stay open and continue to provide care for the elderly and vulnerable people of Harden-Murrumburrah."
Federal member for Riverina Michael McCormack said he was working to find a resolution.
"It is disappointing to hear the St Lawrence Residential Aged Care facility in Harden is shutting down over the course of the next few months," Mr McCormack said.
"My thoughts are with the families and staff affected by this decision. I have spoken with locals about this situation and I know it is very distressing for all involved.
"I was only informed of this closure after the staff and family were told and, as soon as I was notified, contacted the Aged Care Services Minister. I have also spoken with Hilltops Mayor Brian Ingram and Southern Cross Care CEO Helen Emerson.
"I have been informed there have been issues recruiting staff and bed occupancy, which were major factors in what is a commercial decision by Southern Cross Care to close the privately owned facility.
"Other aged care providers have been contacted regarding this situation and we will see if anything comes of this.
"In the meantime, I will continue to work on this issue and I am doing all I can to find a resolution or a way forward that suits all residents and their families."
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