Premier Unveils Plans for Cobequid Health Centre

Residents of Lower Sackville and surrounding communities will have better access to emergency and trauma services, diagnostic tests, a diabetic clinic, occupational therapy and much more with the construction of the new $34-million Cobequid Community Health Centre.

Premier John Hamm was in Lower Sackville today, April 11, unveiling this year's budget for the project. Nova Scotia will invest up to $4 million in 2003-04 to finalize design and architectural requirements and begin construction, which is anticipated in the fall.

"The health of this community very much depends on the work of the Cobequid team," said Premier Hamm. "By working together -- government and community -- we will have a new Cobequid Centre within the next three years."

The total government investment is about $26.5 million. The Cobequid Community Health Centre Foundation capital campaign has committed to raise $4 million. The remaining $3.5 million will be from community partnerships.

"I am grateful for the leadership that has emerged from the community," said Don Farmer, chairperson for the Cobequid Community Health Care Centre Foundation capital campaign. "The volunteers and our generous individual and business donors reflect the clear sense of community responsibility. Together, they will truly make this happen."

Bruce McLaughlin, chair of the Capital Health District board of directors, was also on hand to recognize the community and the staff of the centre.

"Today's announcement is welcome encouragement for this very supportive community," said Mr. McLaughlin. "We look forward to starting the actual construction very soon -- activity that will be a welcome sight to those who work here at the Cobequid Community Health Centre and to the community it serves."

Today, residents and staff also got a first look at the facility's early concept design, unveiled at the event by the three speakers. The design is being developed by Fowler Bauld and Mitchell Ltd. of Halifax.