Puffball of the Week: George Rogers asks about Capital Bonds Investments (April 14)
Mr. Rogers: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today the government announced that $105 million is being invested in seniors’ accommodation across the province.
Fifty million dollars of this funding was made possible by Albertans who bought capital bonds. This is such good news that I thought I, too, would ask a question of the Minister of Infrastructure. Why are the capital bond funds being directed to seniors’ accommodations?
Mr. Danyluk: Well, Mr. Speaker, preparing for an aging population is a priority for this government. Investing capital bonds in seniors’ accommodations supports that priority. In fact, it was very clear in the discussions in this Chamber, the importance of supporting seniors’ housing. Seniors have told us very clearly that they want to stay together as they age and in a more homelike setting than the traditional long-term care.
The Speaker: The hon. member.
Mr. Rogers: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Again to the same minister, and I think he partially answered some of my question. My next question is: what will these facilities look like, and will they actually meet the great need that exists for seniors’ housing today?
Mr. Danyluk: Well, Mr. Speaker, each facility is going to be unique. Most of the projects are new facilities. Some of them are renovations. The investment addresses the priority needs of the communities. The details of each of the projects will be announced in the very short future.
The Speaker: The hon. member.
Mr. Rogers: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Finally, to the same minister: what assurances can the minister give to this House that this is not just another great-sounding announcement but that these facilities will actually be built?
Mr. Danyluk: Well, Mr. Speaker, first of all, today’s announcement will allow us to move forward with 1,000 new and upgraded spaces. Providing seniors with accommodations that best suit their health and personal care needs is a priority, as I said, of this government. These projects will be completed or well under way by 2012. That’s the assurance, that those projects are starting and those projects are going to be done by 2012.
Alberta Hansard, April 14, 2010