Last week, the leader of Alberta’s Official Opposition, Rachel Notley, came to Red Deer to stoke fear on the progress and status of the Red Deer Hospital.
It was an interesting move given the former NDP government, lead by Ms. Notley herself, made the decision to remove the Red Deer Hospital expansion from the capital list during their term. It’s time to set the record straight and challenge the narrative that has overshadowed our progress.
The truth is, the NDP’s decision dealt a severe blow to the people of Red Deer — a clear neglect of our community’s healthcare needs. Their actions left Red Deerians facing challenges in accessing the healthcare they need.
But let’s not dwell on the past; let’s focus on the present and the future we are determined to build. Despite facing roadblocks and political hurdles, we refuse to be deterred from our mission to revitalize healthcare in Red Deer. Budget 2024 allocates an additional $810 million towards the redevelopment of the Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre. This is not just a financial investment; it’s a testament to our unwavering resolve to right the wrongs of the past and prioritize the well-being of those in the Red Deer region.
As our government prioritizes access to healthcare for all Albertans, it’s important to highlight that staffing remains a key focus as design work progresses on the redevelopment and expansion of RDRHC. AHS is actively implementing various measures to ensure seamless ongoing and future operations at the site.
While the NDP may have failed Red Deer, our government is steadfast in its commitment to getting this project across the finish line. We are not content with empty promises and political posturing; we are driven by a genuine desire to make a positive impact in the lives of every Albertan.
So let’s be clear: this redevelopment project is not merely a response to past neglect; it is a bold step forward—a statement of our collective determination to overcome adversity and build a healthcare system that Red Deer can be proud of.
As both the Health Minister and the MLA for Red Deer- North, I stand firm in my commitment to advocating for the needs of our community and ensuring that every resident receives the care and attention they deserve. Together, let’s turn the page on the past and embark on a new chapter of progress and prosperity for Red Deer’s healthcare system.
Alberta Infrastructure will be hosting an information session on the Red Deer Hospital expansion project, and project representatives will be available to answer questions at the event. This will be held at the Chalet, Westerner Park on March 14 from 7PM to 9PM.
I encourage all residents of Red Deer and the surrounding area to attend, and hear first hand the progress being made.
Adriana LaGrange is Alberta’s Minister of Health and MLA Red Deer- North.