Mr R. H. L. SMITH: My question is directed to the Minister for Health. Will the Minister explain
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why, less than half-way through the financial year, the Ambulance Service of New South Wales is already having difficulties paying its bills, particularly in country areas, where delays in payment can be as long as six months? What impact will this have on essential services and on country businesses?

Mr KNOWLES: I can confirm that the Ambulance Service budget has increased dramatically over the past five years. The Government continues the increase this year with another record amount of funding and another 108 ambulance officers currently being deployed throughout the system. As to the specifics of the issue, if the honourable member will give me the details I will check it out for him.