Women's drug rehab centre Fair Havens is set to announce the appointment of a new clinical director today and should be ready for new patients within six weeks, chairman Terrett West said yesterday.

And he denied rumours Fair Havens Christian Care Association was closing even though its two remaining clients are set to leave by Monday.

He said it was time they moved back into society following treatment and said they would be put up by family members, following another client who moved out recently.

Four permanent local staff are to be hired said Mr. West and then get training in Toronto. Some are already working at the facility.

Mr. West said: "We are in the position to make an offer to the new clinical director."

He revealed Fair Havens had not received a grant from Government this year towards its $1 million a year costs when it typically put in around half.

A Health department spokesman said Fair Havens did not apply to receive funding until long after the Government Budget cycle for the current fiscal year had ended and money had already been allocated.

Mr. West said Government had promised to send cash for each client it refers to the programme while sponsors had helped out with funds.