NEW WEYBURN LONG-TERM CARE FACILITY BEING BUILT

Construction will begin immediately on a new $21.8 million long-term care facility in Weyburn, as part of The Action Plan for Saskatchewan Health Care launched in December 2001.

Health Minister John Nilson announced today that Dominion Construction has been selected as the main construction contractor for the Tatagwa View long-term care facility.

"Tatagwa View is one more example of how our government is moving forward with the commitment in The Action Plan for Saskatchewan Health Care to improve the quality of health services and access to care for all Saskatchewan residents," Nilson said. "This investment is also an example of how our government is working with all our health partners to make the changes needed now in order to sustain the health care system into the future."

The provincial government is committing $14.9 million toward the final project cost. The funding builds on $6.9 million raised by local residents.

"With today's announcement, construction on the project can begin immediately," Sun Country Health Region Chair Earl Kickley said. "This project is key to ensuring people in our region have access to quality long-term health care. We are very proud of the work that has been done to this point in support of this major initiative."

Tatagwa View will replace the aging Souris Valley Extended Care Centre and provide a more modern, home-like atmosphere for long-term care residents.

The new facility will include 135 long-term care beds, 20 adult day care spaces, regional health authority offices, space for support services, physiotherapy, long-term care administration, central dietary, regional laundry and child day care.

Over the next two years the Government of Saskatchewan is investing $61 million for new and upgraded health care facilities to increase access and better deliver health care services.

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For More Information, Contact:

Mark Rathwell Health Regina Phone: (306)787-4083