Minister O’Regan congratulates onihcikiskwapowin – Saddle Lake Cree Nation on the Grand Opening of the Saddle Lake Health Care Centre

From: Indigenous Services Canada

August 9, 2019 – onihcikiskwapowin – Saddle Lake Cree Nation, Alberta, Treaty 6 Territory – Indigenous Services Canada

The Government of Canada is working in partnership with Treaty First Nations to address infrastructure needs in order to improve health outcomes and well-being in their territories.

Today, the Honourable Seamus O’Regan, Minister of Indigenous Services, congratulates onihcikiskwapowin – Saddle Lake Cree Nation on completing the redevelopment and major renovation of the Saddle Lake Health Care Centre.

Construction on the Centre began in 2017 with a total investment of $6.6 million from Indigenous Services Canada (ISC). The project includes renovation of the 1,400 square metre facility and the addition of more than 600 square metres of functional space to the existing Centre. The investment is part of the Government of Canada’s $180+ billion Investing in Canada infrastructure plan.

The redevelopment and renovation of the health facility will improve access to primary health care in the community and will support a range of services related to public health, mental well-being, and dental care including children’s oral health.

Quotes

“Congratulations to onihcikiskwapowin – Saddle Lake Cree Nation on completing renovations to the Saddle Lake Health Care Centre. The best health outcomes for Indigenous peoples are achieved through programs that are designed, developed and led by Indigenous peoples. The Government of Canada has been proud to partner with you to improve access to quality health care services for the peoples of Saddle Lake.”

The Honourable Seamus O’Regan, P.C., M.P.
Minister of Indigenous Services

“The opening of this health facility is the result of a successful partnership with the Government of Canada. It is the foundation of our comprehensive approach to addressing many issues facing our community. The programs we provide through this facility will make a real difference to our people for generations to come.”

Saddle Lake Cree Nation

Quick facts

• Saddle Lake Cree Nation is in the Treaty No. 6 territory and is located approximately 160 km northeast of Edmonton with a population of approximately 6,000 on reserve.
• The health centre is staffed with ISC Public Health and Homecare nurses and Nation employed community-based health program teams and support staff.

Associated links

• Saddle Lake Cree Nation
• Investing in First Nations Community Infrastructure
• Interactive Map – Investing in First Nations Community Infrastructure
• Investing in Canada: Canada’s Long Term Infrastructure Plan
• Interactive Map – Investing in Canada Plan Project Map

Contacts

For more information, media may contact:

Kevin Deagle
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Seamus O’Regan,
Minister of Indigenous Services
873-354-0987

Media Relations
Indigenous Services Canada
819-953-1160
SAC.media.ISC@canada.ca

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