NLIS 34
March 21, 2002
(Health and Community Services)
Government continues
commitment to health infrastructure
Julie Bettney, Minister of Health and
Community Services, today announced $51 million to upgrade health
infrastructure. Since 1996-1997 the province has committed over $500 million
in building and upgrading health facilities and purchasing capital
equipment.
In Budget 2002 Government will invest $31
million to support ongoing capital projects. These include:
- $10 million for the James Paton Hospital
Redevelopment, Gander. The total cost of this redevelopment is $69
million. Project status - The new extension is well underway and will be
completed this summer. The renovations to the existing facility will
start next fall and are scheduled for completion by summer 2004.
- $18.7 million to continue work on the new
Sir Thomas Roddick Hospital in Stephenville. The total budget for this
project is $34.5 million. Project status - The building envelope is
nearing completion and the interior will start shortly. The facility is
expected to be ready for occupancy in summer 2003.
- $1 million for design work for the new
Grand Bank Health Centre which has an estimated total cost of $17.3
million. Project status - Tenders to be called as soon as design work is
complete.
- $800,000 for the Fogo Island Health Centre.
The estimated total cost of the project is $9.7 million. Project status
- The tender for Phase I (foundations) will be awarded shortly and
construction will start when weather conditions allow. The tender for
Phase II (main building construction) will be called in September 2002
with work starting in spring 2003. This facility is currently
scheduled for occupancy by summer 2004.
- $500,000 for continued planning to address
long-term care needs for residents in the Clarenville area.
A further $15 million will be invested in
capital equipment including general x-ray equipment, ultrasound, information
technology, therapeutic equipment, and equipment for residential care needs
in nursing homes. Also included in this allocation is $200,000 to begin a
program to equip ambulances with defibrillators.
Government will also spend $5 million for
repairs and renovations at health facilities across the province to address
life and safety issues. Roof repairs and window replacements will
also be done to provide a more comfortable environment for patients,
residents and staff.
"We will continue our efforts to have
safe facilities which meet the needs of our health professionals and
patients," said Minister Bettney.
Media contact: Carmel Turpin, Communications,
(709) 729-1377.
2002 03
21 3:10
p.m.
|