Battlefords MLA Herb Cox has lauded the completion of the new Saskatchewan Hospital in the legislature.
Cox made his remarks Monday, immediately after Friday’s grand opening ceremonies at the new hospital. The opening was attended by Premier Scott Moe and several other Saskatchewan Party cabinet ministers and MLAs.
Here are Cox’s remarks about the grand opening as recorded in Hansard.
Mr. Cox: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, last Friday saw a landmark achievement in mental health for this province, and that was the grand opening of the new Saskatchewan Hospital North Battleford.
For those in need of psychiatric rehabilitation, it is more than a hospital — it is a home. Rooms are spacious and private. Natural lighting is a feature throughout, and the facility itself overlooks the beautiful North Saskatchewan River Valley. Mr. Speaker, all patients from the old Sask Hospital North Battleford have been relocated and settled into the new facility.
Mr. Speaker, mental health is a priority for our government, and that is why we are pleased to support this facility with $407 million in funding for construction and maintenance to keep it in like-new condition for decades to come.
Mr. Speaker, the new Sask Hospital North Battleford is among the most advanced mental health treatment centres in Canada. It represents the single largest investment in mental health in the history of this province and the cumulative efforts and vision of so many people over the better part of a decade.
Mr. Speaker, while many were involved in this project, I would like to extend a special thanks to the staff at the new Sask Hospital North Battleford. By all accounts, Mr. Speaker, they have done a great job making this transition smooth and comfortable for the patients. I am confident that their compassion and professionalism will have a lasting and positive effect on their lives, their families, and our communities. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
