Major Renovations at Barrie Memorial Hospital – The Government of Quebec Announces an Investment of $2.218 Billion!

QUEBEC, July 7, 2016 /CNW Telbec/ – On behalf of the Minister of Health and Social Services, Mr. Gaétan Barrette, the Member of the National Assembly for Huntingdon and Chief Whip of the Government of Quebec, Mr. Stéphane Billette, announced a total investment of $2.218 billion for major renovation work at Barrie Memorial Hospital, a facility of the Montérégie-Ouest Integrated Health and Social Services Center (CISSS). "The hospital, built over 75 years ago, will be renovated to ensure the well-being and safety of both patients and employees. The entire community will benefit from this project. Providing health and social services facilities with modern infrastructure is a government priority, especially regarding fire safety and hygiene care," stated the MNA. The Ministry of Health and Social Services is investing $1.223 billion in this project. The remaining costs will be covered by the institution itself, contributing $509,500, and the Barrie Memorial Hospital Foundation, providing $485,000. "The Foundation is very proud to contribute to funding this work for the benefit of patients and employees, many of whom live locally. The Foundation's mission has always been to invest in the community for the community," added Mrs. Madeleine H. Greig, President of the Foundation. The renovations, which began in early June, primarily aim to ensure cleanliness and patient safety. The work includes refurbishing the exterior cladding of the third floor, replacing the call bell system, installing an anti-elopement system, adding three ceiling lifts, and installing sprinklers. The central sanitation block will also be redesigned. It is important to note that access to emergency services for ambulances and walk-in patients will remain available throughout the project. However, a few parking spaces at the front of the hospital will be unavailable from the start of the work until early August. The renovations are expected to be completed by winter 2017.