CYPRESS HEALTH REGION INVESTS IN FACILITY REPAIRS AND SAFETY UPGRADES

Cypress Health Region is spending $4.2 million to make its most pressing infrastructure repairs and safety upgrades, thanks to the government's $1 billion Ready for Growth initiative.

Upgrades to facilities and fire alarm systems are among the projects that will proceed this year. The work will include upgrades to nurse call stations and improvements to facility energy efficiency.

"Replacing outdated safety systems and making basic building repairs are incredibly important to ensure the safety and comfort of patients and health providers," Health Minister Don McMorris said. "The government must protect our multi-billion dollar investment in our 236 publicly-funded health facilities. This year's funding partly addresses the significant backlog of maintenance, repairs and safety system upgrades."

"We are very appreciative of the infrastructure funding from the Ministry of Health," Cypress Regional Health Authority Chairperson Tyler Bragg said. "The funding will allow us to initiate some long-standing repairs and upgrades to many of our facilities that will address a number of concerns affecting the life and safety of our clients and staff. We look forward to similar future assistance to continue this process."

The 2008-09 provincial budget earmarked $100 million for health region infrastructure. Cypress Health Region is receiving the increased funding as its annual block funding for capital infrastructure.

Each health region determines its most urgent priorities, and contracts with suppliers to get the work done.

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For more information, contact:

Karen Hill
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083 Bryce Martin
Cypress Health Region
Swift Current
Phone: 306-778-5117