New era in children's health begins today

Premier Roger Grimes and Gerald Smith, Acting Minister of Health and Community Services, joined the Health Care Corporation of St. John's today to officially open the new Janeway Children's Health and Rehabilitation Centre.

"This state-of-the-art facility will continue the tradition and reputation of the Janeway and its staff to provide nothing less than top notch care for children," said Premier Grimes. "Now is the time to celebrate. The new Janeway is not only a building; for some children, it is the place they call home. For their families, it is a place of hope. And, for the staff, it is the place which provides reward beyond compare."

It was 35 years ago that government committed to a specialized hospital for the care of sick children in this province. The Janeway was established in 1966 in the former U.S. Armed Forces Hospital at Fort Pepperell. While that facility has served the families of this province well, the new Janeway provides for a bright, colourful, child-friendly environment for the specialized care of children including neurosurgery, neonatal intensive care, dental, cancer, mental health, genetics and outpatient clinics for children suffering from cystic fibrosis, haemophilia, asthma and diabetes.

"Government remains committed to a �centre of excellence' for child health as we move into the new millennium," said Premier Grimes. "We all recognize the importance of having a health facility totally dedicated to meeting the medical needs of our children. The purpose of the Janeway is to serve children throughout the province by providing them with the best possible care and teaching them to remain well."

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador recently demonstrated its continued commitment to the Janeway by matching dollar for dollar the $1.4 million raised during the Janeway Telethon held earlier this month

"The success of the telethon demonstrates the community and corporate support for the Janeway," said Minister Smith. "It is indeed seen as having a very vital role in the health and well-being of our children."

Minister Smith commended the Janeway staff for their dedication and for providing a level of expertise matched by few in this country.

"There are probably very few families in this province who have not been touched by the Janeway," the minister said. "The people who work there are a source of comfort and support for families at often a very stressful time. On behalf of all residents, I offer our sincere appreciation."

Media contacts:
Carl Cooper, Office of the Premier, (709) 729-3960
Carmel Turpin, Health and Community Services (709) 729-1377.

2001 06 21                                                    4:45 p.m