Carolyn Male MP, State Member for Pine Rivers, has welcomed funding in the State Budget for the new Prince Charles Hospital Children’s Emergency Department.

“With money in this year’s budget, construction on the new ED can begin before Christmas,” Carolyn Male MP said.

“This facility will be great for local families, with excellent emergency care available close to home.”

“A new Family Advisory Council has been formed, giving local families a chance to influence how services are delivered in the new facility.”

“Several local parents and grandparents are members of the Council and they will help us decide everything from room colours to parking solutions,” Carolyn Male MP said.

The new Children’s Emergency Department will open in 2012 and will provide 12 new emergency treatments bays and 20 beds for short stays.

The Royal Children’s Hospital will also remain open until at least 2014, when the new Queensland Children’s Hospital will open at South Brisbane.