CALVERT TO ATTEND CONFERENCE

Released on April 7, 1995

Health Minister Lorne Calvert will attend the Conference of Provincial
and Territorial Health Ministers, April 10 and 11 in Vancouver.

Calvert will strongly encourage participants to discuss the
implications of federal budget reductions for health. Provincial
ministers will also discuss how they can work together effectively on
areas of common concern.

Calvert said he will encourage his provincial and territorial
colleagues to work together to ensure the long-term stability of
medicare and the principles of The Canada Health Act.

"Getting the best use of health resources will feature prominently in
the discussions," Calvert said. "All governments in Canada are aware
of the need to manage their health dollars more wisely.

"Saskatchewan is leading the way in Canada in terms of health renewal.
Many provinces are now where Saskatchewan was three years ago and want
to hear more about our experiences. Saskatchewan is scheduled to lead
discussions on the status of health renewal."

Other items on the conference agenda include the supply of physicians,
the national forum on health, private clinics, and the progress of the
Krever Inquiry. Also on the agenda are matters related to healthful
public policy such as labelling of alcohol products and a strategy to
reduce tobacco use.

The provinces and territories will be signing a joint agreement with
the Canadian Red Cross Society and the Canadian Blood Agency that
clarifies roles and responsibilities to further ensure a safe, adequate
blood supply.

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For more information, contact:

Mark Seland
Saskatchewan Health
Regina
Phone: 787-3825