Released on February 3, 2009
The provincial government is investing $152.8 million to build 13 new long-term care facilities to replace 13 outdated facilities throughout Saskatchewan. The funding is part of the government's plan to accelerate infrastructure spending this year, as part of its Ready for Growth initiative, to ensure Saskatchewan's economy remains strong.
"Today's announcement means that high-priority capital projects will move ahead more quickly than anticipated," Health Minister Don McMorris said. "In many cases the condition of the existing facilities is simply not up to the standards that seniors deserve. Making sure that our health facilities are up-to-date and meeting today's building standards is incredibly important to ensure the safety and comfort of residents and health care providers."
More than 540 long-term care residents will benefit from new facilities being constructed in the communities of: Maple Creek (48 long-term beds), Rosetown (47 long-term care beds), Kerrobert (36 long-term care beds), Biggar (59 long term care beds), Tisdale (33 long-term care beds), Kelvington (46 long-term care beds), Meadow Lake (55 long-term care beds), Prince Albert (50 long-term beds), Shellbrook (34 long-term care beds), Watrous (35 long-term care beds), Redvers (24 long-term care beds), Kipling (28 long-term care beds), and Radville (52 long-term care beds).
Health foundations and local community groups have been lobbying for projects such as these for years, with some communities conducting significant fund-raising.
Today's announcement is part of the $500 million dollar accelerated infrastructure plan announced by Premier Brad Wall to provide an "economic booster shot" to Saskatchewan's economy.
This $152.8 million investment in health infrastructure is in addition to the $198 million already announced for health capital this fiscal year.
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For more information, contact:
Karen Hill
Health
Regina
Phone: 787-4083