HEARTLAND HEALTH REGION INVESTS $4.32 MILLION IN FACILITY REPAIRS AND SAFETY UPGRADES

Heartland Health Region is spending $4.32 million to make its most pressing infrastructure repairs and safety upgrades, thanks to the government's $1 billion Ready for Growth initiative.

Facility upgrades such as roofing repairs and installation of electric doors are among the projects that are planned to proceed this year.

"Replacing outdated safety systems and making basic building repairs are incredibly important to ensure the safety and comfort of patients and health providers," Health Minister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

"This is very exciting and very timely," Heartland Health Region board chair Lyle Leys said. "One of our strategic goals is building a culture of safety, so we appreciate this opportunity to address some significant needs throughout the region. We are very pleased and anxious to proceed."

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

Improvement projects include replacement of sprinkler and fire alarm systems, and new hot water and pipe systems.

-30-

For more information, contact:

Karen Hill
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083 LeAnne Paproski
Heartland Health Region
Rosetown
Phone: 306-882-4111