Extra Federal funds to speed up the processing of detained foreign fishers in Broome will also ensure better health services for local residents, the Minister for Justice and Customs, Senator Chris Ellison, said today.

Senator Ellison said a new contract signed recently between Australian Customs and the WA Department of Health would enable Broome District Hospital to provide an expanded radiography service.

"This extra funding includes Broome Hospital can now provide more flexible radiography and x-ray services," Senator Ellison said.

"This greater availability of services means extended hours of operation, as well as access to the latest in radiographic equipment - all of which means better service sooner to the residents of Broome."

Senator Ellison said the expanded service would permit precautionary chest x-rays of detained foreign fishers to be conducted much more quickly and ensure their more rapid transfer by air from Broome to Department of Immigration Detention Facilities.

He congratulated the WA Department of Health and the Broome District Hospital staff who had worked closely with Australian Customs to improve the transfer process for detained foreign fishers.

"I am advised that the hospital staff have been incredibly helpful and flexible. This is another great example of Federal and State agencies working cooperatively to deal with the challenges posed by illegal foreign fishing."

Senator Ellison also confirmed during a visit to Broome today that work had begun on improving processing facilities for foreign fishers at Willie Creek.

"Since Customs took over responsibility for this program last November, we have found that the accommodation and amenities at Willie Creek needed upgrading," Senator Ellison said.

Improvements will include new bunk spaces, improved cooking, recreation, shower and toilet facilities.

Since November 2005, Customs has detained 1534 crew suspected of illegally fishing Australian waters. Of that number, 295 crew from 31 fishing boats have been processed through Willie Creek.

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