Prime Minister Kevin Rudd today announced $45 500 in funding assistance for the Lima based Sisters of Mercy Family Health Service.
Before attending the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting, the Prime Minister visited the Service and said the new funding would significantly improve the quality of healthcare provided by the Australian-based Sisters of Mercy Congregation.
The Sisters will purchase their first x-ray machine with the new funds. This machine will mainly be used for chest x-rays due to the high incidence of tuberculosis in the local area.
The Australian Government has also funded some additional medical equipment including two centrifuges and a fetal heart monitor.
The Mercy Family Health Service, directed by Joan Doyle, was established in 2002.
In the last 12 and half years the Sisters have worked closely with the local people to establish three women's houses and two childcare centres in addition to this medical service.
The Prime Minister looks forward to seeing the future achievements of the Sisters of Mercy as they continue to devote their life's work to this most important cause.