PRAIRIE NORTH HEALTH REGION INVESTS IN FACILITY REPAIRS AND SAFETY UPGRADES

Prairie North Health Region is spending $3.2 million to make its most pressing infrastructure repairs and safety upgrades, thanks to the government's $1 billion Ready for Growth initiative.

The funding will allow for major safety and building upgrades at Battlefords Union Hospital.

"Replacing outdated safety systems and making basic building repairs are incredibly important to ensure the safety and comfort of patients and health providers," Health Minister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."

"The new funding for capital improvements allows Prairie North Health Region to move forward sooner than anticipated with much needed improvements to the fire safety and energy efficiency systems at Battlefords Union Hospital," Prairie North Health Region board chairperson Bonnie O'Grady said. "The project will enhance patient and staff safety, and improve the physical environment for patients and staff through improvements to the heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. Prairie North appreciates the opportunity to add this work to our list of capital projects approved and underway this fiscal year."

The 2008-09 provincial budget earmarked $100 million for health region infrastructure. Prairie North 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.

-30-

For more information, contact:

Karen Hill
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083 Linda Lewis
Prairie North Health Region
North Battleford
Phone: 306-446-6625