News Release

1999-32
February 23, 1999

Rock and McLellan say 1999 federal budget is good news for health care in Alberta

Edmonton - Health Minister Allan Rock and Justice Minister Anne McLellan said today the 1999 federal Budget is good news for Alberta and a turning point for Canada's health care system. The Ministers made the comments during a visit to Edmonton's Northeast Community Health Centre (NECHC).

Mr. Rock said, "With this budget, Canadians witnessed the largest single new investment this government has ever made - a commitment of $11.5 billion over 5 years for the health of Canadians. Alberta will receive over $1.1 billion in additional Canada Health and Social Transfer (CHST) payments over the next five years for health care."

Ms. McLellan said, "In addition to the increased transfer payments for the province, Alberta researchers, and research institutions will benefit from the federal government's increased investment in health research. These investments, together with the recent Social Union agreement and the commitment by the provincial and territorial leaders to devote CHST increases to health, signals a turning point in the history of Canada's health system."

Earlier in the day, at the University of Alberta, Minister Rock highlighted the federal government's $328 million budget investment in information and accountability, noting Alberta was a leader in the field. He also pointed out that Alberta will see benefits from other health related budget initiatives in the area of rural health, and prenatal nutrition. First Nations in Alberta will also benefit from increases in federal funding.

"The Northeast Community Centre is a positive example of the government's innovations in community health care," said Mr. Rock.

Funds granted to the Province of Alberta for Primary Health Care.

NECHC is one of the 24 projects to receive a portion of the $11.2 million in the 1997 Health Transition Fund.

-30-

Media Inquiries
Derek Kent
Minister's Office
(613) 957-0200

Lance Beswick
Health Canada
(780) 495-4580

Public Inquiries
(613) 957-2991