$1.4 million for seniors� housing option

Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs Minister Ernest McLean is pleased to announce $1.4 million to provide a viable housing option for seniors in southeastern Labrador, which will allow them to remain in, or near, their home communities.

The funding, to be provided to the non-profit Battle Harbour Assisted Living Corporation for a facility in Mary�s Harbour, was announced in today's provincial budget.

"Government has listened to the concerns of residents in southeastern Labrador about the need to establish such a facility," Mr. McLean said. "The facility will give seniors the option of living in their home community, as opposed to having to move outside the region. This funding demonstrates government's commitment to enhancing housing options for seniors in rural, isolated areas of the province, particularly the Labrador coast."

Cartwright-L'Anse au Clair MHA Yvonne Jones said the facility will cater to the needs of the area's aging population, as well as provide long-term meaningful employment.

"There was an urgent need for such a facility in southern Labrador, and the people of my district have worked long and hard to secure this funding," Ms. Jones said. "Seniors in southern Labrador will no longer have to move outside the region to get the care they deserve, and family members will have the comfort of knowing that their loved ones won't be too far away. The facility will create employment and provide a service that was desperately needed in the region."

Media contact: Bert Pomeroy, Communications, (709) 896-3099 or 896-1688.

2001 03 22                4:30 p.m.