Released on April 29, 2002
Premier Lorne Calvert has listened to Saskatchewan people and put plannedincreases to long-term care fees on hold and under review. The premier
made the announcement in the Legislature today.
"Over the past several days, the Minister of Health and I have spoken with
seniors and members of the general public in several Saskatchewan
communities," Calvert said. "We are concerned that, for many, elements of
the new fee structure do not fully pass the public test for fairness.
"Minister Nilson and I have therefore initiated an immediate review of the
proposed fees, including discussions with representatives of seniors and
persons with disabilities, to consider what changes may be necessary."
The 2002-03 provincial budget increased funding for long-term care by $10
million to $337 million, while also increasing fees for many of the 8,900
residents who live in 158 licensed long-term care homes and hospitals
across the province. Long-term care is not included under the Canada
Health Act and is not supported by federal government funding.
"People elect their politicians to represent their views, to listen to
their thoughts and concerns and to act," Calvert said. "This is what my
government has done here today - listened to the public and acted on their
concerns."
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James Millar
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Regina
Phone: (306) 787-6349