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NLIS 4
July 22, 2005
(Health and Community Services)
(Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs)
Government proceeds with two
healthcare initiatives in Labrador
John Ottenheimer, Minister of Health
and Community Services (HCS), and Larry Bradley, Board Chair, of the
Labrador-Grenfell Regional Integrated Health Authority (L-G RIHA), today named
the consultant selected to conduct two projects in Labrador.
The consulting firm James Torbert and Associates has been selected to carry out
both a needs assessment and role study of health services and facility
infrastructure for Labrador West as well as planning to move forward with a long
term care (LTC) facility in Labrador East. Criteria for the projects were based
on a review of strengths, abilities, depth of experience of team members,
methodology, site commitment and cost.
�Proceeding with these two initiatives in Labrador will assist government in
determining the appropriate environment for the delivery of services in
Labrador,� said Minister Ottenheimer. �These projects will assist us in
identifying the best approach to deal with infrastructure needs.�
�Government�s investment will allow for an external assessment of current health
services and infrastructure in Labrador West and long-term care needs in
Labrador,� said Mr. Bradley. �I look forward to hearing independent
recommendations regarding action for future service delivery and infrastructure
needs in both these areas.�
The planning in Labrador East builds on government�s commitment in Budget 2005
to upgrading and building LTC facilities as well as the Blueprint pledge to
develop a strategy to improve LTC facilities throughout the province. This work
will help meet the needs of seniors in Labrador and supports planning for our
aging population.
Proceeding with the needs assessment and role study in Labrador West follows
through on an announcement made by government at the 2005 Combined Councils
Annual General Meeting.
�These investments confirm government�s commitment to the people of Labrador,�
said Paul Shelley, Minister responsible for Labrador Affairs. �Our government
recognizes the pivotal role of Labrador in the future of our province. Access to
quality health services and proper infrastructure will improve the overall
health and well-being of its people � our most important resource.�
A steering committee for each project is in place and comprises of
representatives from the major partners. The steering committee will oversee the
project and provide direction to the firm. Consultations with L-G RIHA, HCS and
key stakeholders will be a major component of the firm�s review.
It is anticipated that the final reports will be completed in October 2005.
Media contact:
Stephanie Power, Health and Community Services, (709) 729-2888, 727-2701
Alison Dower, L-G RIHA, (709) 454-3333 Ext: 128
Tansy Mundon, Labrador Affairs, (709) 729-0928
2005 05 22 2:05 p.m.
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