Norm Macdonald MLA                                Columbia River – Revelstoke

MEDIA RELEASE

For immediate release

May 23rd, 2008

Macdonald reminds Minister of his promise to build ambulance station

In estimates debate today, Columbia River – Revelstoke MLA Norm Macdonald questioned Minister of Health George Abbott about his commitment to build a new ambulance station in Revelstoke.  Estimates debate involves analyzing the provincial budget and allows opposition members the opportunity to ask specific questions of Ministers concerning ministry operations and budgetary matters.

“The Minister is aware that Revelstoke paramedics have endured some very substandard conditions in their temporary facilities,” said Macdonald in estimate debate. “Service provided by these paramedics has remained superb despite these difficulties, but obviously there is urgency for a new station.”

Concerns are being raised that the funds for the paramedic station have not been allocated and that paramedics will be spending another winter in a sub-standard facility.

“The City of Revelstoke has done its work to provide property for the new ambulance station but the Minister needs to confirm the funding is in place for the construction of the new ambulance station for this year. Will he do that for the public record?”

Abbott did not confirm that funding for the new station would be available this year.