CONSTRUCTION BEGINS ON THE UNIVERSITY OF REGINA'S LABORATORY BUILDING

The start of construction of the addition to the University of Regina Laboratory Building was celebrated at a sod-turning ceremony on the campus today.

"This improved facility will support the spirit of discovery and exploration," Learning Minister Andrew Thomson said. "The new state-of-the-art laboratory space will provide the tools students and faculty need to stay firmly on the leading edge of innovation."

The government provided a total of $31 million for the addition. In 2002-03, $1 million was given to the university for feasibility and planning purposes. The remaining $30 million was approved in March 2005.

In the past five years, the department has provided $61 million in capital funding to the University of Regina in addition to annual cyclic renewal/capital maintenance funding. The funding has been used for projects that include the Laboratory Building addition, the Centre for Kinesiology, Health, and Sport, and an addition to the Education Building.

"Supporting the renewal and growth of the University of Regina is a demonstration of the government's commitment to students and the post-secondary education sector. Building a world class university will help ensure Saskatchewan is the best place in Canada to live, work, and raise a family," Thomson said.

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For More Information, Contact:

Nelson Wagner Learning Regina Phone: (306) 787-6040