The Government of Saskatchewan is making a significant investment of more than $80 million in long-term care facilities across the province. Saskatchewan seniors will benefit from an investment of approximately $73 million in new long-term care facilities in Grenfell and La Ronge. More than $7.2 million will be invested in 2020-21 for 82 priority renewal projects in 51 long-term care facilities across the province.
These projects are part of the Government of Saskatchewan’s $7.5 billion two-year capital to plan to build a strong Saskatchewan and stimulate Saskatchewan’s economic recovery. Under the two-year capital to plan to build a strong Saskatchewan, $200 million was designated for health infrastructure including major projects and maintenance funding.
“Our government is taking action to meet the need for long-term care services in rural and northern areas,” Rural and Remote Health Minister Warren Kaeding said. “We kept our promise to build 13 new long-term care facilities across the province, with the final facility now under construction in Meadow Lake. These new investments reaffirm our commitment to Saskatchewan seniors.”
Funding of $18.7 million was provided in the 2020-21 Budget to advance planning for large capital projects across the health system, and the provincial government has given approval to proceed with advanced planning and design on both new long-term care facilities. This includes proceeding with replacement of Grenfell Pioneer Home, with a decision on the procurement process expected this summer. A replacement of La Ronge’s current facility will mean a significant expansion in capacity and service in the region. These new investments are in addition to the $15.7 million provided in the 2020-21 Budget to continue the construction of a new 72-bed long-term care facility in Meadow Lake.
Of the $7.2 million designated to the 82 priority renewal projects in 51 long-term care facilities across the province, improvements will include: flooring and window replacements, heating and air conditioning upgrades, and water and sewer line replacement.
This is in addition to approximately $24 million available from the 2020-21 Life/Safety and Emergency Infrastructure grant to support maintenance in long-term care facilities. Local communities and industries will benefit directly from these projects and will be included in planning and construction work.
