Fed: Salvo's sell-off not due to lack of confidence- Abbott

AAP General News (Australia)
02-12-2004
Fed: Salvo's sell-off not due to lack of confidence- Abbott

Federal Health Minister TONY ABBOTT says plans by the Salvation Army to sell off its
aged care centres does not reflect a lack of confidence in the sector.

The Salvation Army announced yesterday it will sell 15 of its 19 aged care centres
and retirement villages around Australia.

Industry experts say it reflects the general crisis in the aged care sector and warned
the move could result in a loss of aged care beds.

But the Salvation Army attributed the sale to operating costs and future capital requirements.

Mr ABBOTT's told the Nine Network the sell-off is a matter for the Salvation Army and
he does not expect any of the institutions to close.

The Salvation Army will sell a total of 2,390 beds.

AAP RTV sal/swe

KEYWORD: AGED SALVOS ABBOTT (SYDNEY)

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