GOVERNMENT COMMITS $39 MILLION FOR PROVINCIAL MENTAL HEALTH FACILITY

The Saskatchewan government is committing $39 million toward construction of a new provincial mental health facility in North Battleford.

Health Minister Len Taylor and Healthy Living Services Minister Graham Addley announced the construction project to replace the Saskatchewan Hospital North Battleford building as the province's main mental health treatment and forensic centre.

"Saskatchewan has been well served by the professionals who provide mental health care in the Battlefords," Taylor said. "The construction of a modern facility will help the team of respected professionals and health workers serve those who are most in need of intensive, long-term mental health care."

Construction of therapy areas and living quarters for patients will also increase privacy and allow for more home-like living spaces. The project by Saskatchewan Property Management will incorporate elements of the existing building that typify Saskatchewan Hospital's 1914 architecture.

"We continue to invest in the important area of mental health," Addley said. "We will create a living and treatment environment that combines the best elements of modern therapy with the natural beauty of this location."

"This is exciting news for the Prairie North Health Region, the patients and their families, and for the staff of the hospital," Prairie North Regional Health Authority chair Bonnie O'Grady said.

The $39 million for this project is part of the $42.6 million set aside for new health capital spending in the Province's Third Quarter Report, released February 16th. Planning for the facility should be complete in 2008, with a two-year construction period likely from 2008 to 2010. Total project cost is expected to be $59 million.

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For More Information, Contact:

Jocelyn Argue Health Regina Phone: (306) 787-4083