Following continued consultations Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has announced more than twenty additional paramedics will be deployed throughout the Cootamundra electorate to strengthen the region’s frontline emergency workforce.

Sixteen paramedics will be based out of Young while seven will be stationed in Temora, with all to commence work in the coming weeks.

MsCooke welcomed the announcement, stating increased resources are urgently needed across regional and rural New South Wales.

“Any investment which aims to improve health outcomes for residents within the Cootamundra electorate is a welcome one,” Ms Cooke said.

“In an emergency, every minute counts. It’s my hope that today’s announcement will reduce wait times and improve the level of care provided to local patients.”

Last week it was announced by the NSW Government that 125 paramedics have been deployed across regional and rural NSW, as part of the State Government’s Strategic Workforce and Infrastructure Team (SWIFT) Program, following 125 starting last year as part of the program aiming for 500 over a four year period.

Ms Cooke however said the fight to return vital intensive care resources to ambulance stations across the Cootamundra electorate continues.

“Removing essential drugs and equipment from non-Category A and B ambulance stations and vehicles is putting lives at risk,” Ms Cooke said.

“Our Intensive Care Paramedics’ have the knowledge to perform lifesaving care, but the Government continues to keep their hands tied.”