Following is a letter from the Battlefords Heritage Society to Premier Brad Wall and his response to that letter. Submitted by Richard Hiebert, president.
The Honourable Brad Wall
The citizens of the Battlefords and area are immensely thankful for the new Saskatchewan Hospital that is presently under construction by your government. It is badly needed and will be a wonderful institution. However, I have heard some disturbing reports indicating that the old building, or most of the old building, will be destroyed.
It would be a mistake of inestimable proportions to destroy the old building. The Saskatchewan Hospital has been part of the economic and cultural fabric of the Battlefords for more than 100 years. It is also an important part of our architectural history.
The majestic historic brick building in a setting of wonderfully landscaped gardens and stately white spruce and maple trees, with a panoramic view of the North Saskatchewan River Valley, simply must be preserved for present and future generations.
We in the history community, and thousands of residents in the Battlefords and area, do not want to see the old Saskatchewan Hospital come under the wrecking ball. We do not want a repeat of what happened in Weyburn. The old building should be saved, renovated and used.
Will you, as premier, give us some assurance that the old Saskatchewan Hospital will be saved?
Thank you, and good luck in all your endeavours and important work.
Yours faithfully,
Richard W. Hiebert
President, Battlefords Heritage Society
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Dear Dr. Hiebert
Thank you for emailed letter of March 27, 2016, regarding your interest in the Saskatchewan Hospital in North Battleford. I apologize for the delay in responding.
Our government understands that this facility has a long history in the community. At this time, our efforts remain focused on the operation of the current facility and construction of the new hospital. We will continue to maintain and operate the old hospital until patients can be fully transitioned to the new facility.
There have not been any decisions made at this point about the current hospital. We recognize the need to balance the historic value of the facility with the operational realities of a 100 year old building.
I am forwarding your email to the Honourable Jennifer Campeau, minister of Central Services, for her information and consideration.
Thank you for writing.
Sincerely,
Brad Wall
Premier
