Saskatchewan Hospital North Battleford issues addressed in legislature

A number of issues with the Saskatchewan Hospital North Battleford (SHNB) were addressed during question period at the legislature this week. And the opposition New Democrats are set to address the media with further concerns later today.

Vicki Mowat, an NDP MLA from Saskatoon, said a recent Freedom of Information (FOI) request revealed there were known issues with products used to build the roof of the hospital but construction moved forward despite those concerns.There are also issues with the facility’s water supply.

Ken Cheveldayoff, minister for Central Services, said the building was something to be proud of despite short-term issues. He noted there is currently an audit underway and taxpayers will not be responsible for the cost of repairs because the construction was paid for through a public-private partnership (P3).

Mowat followed up by asking what happens if the P3 companies responsible for the build cannot pay for the fixes. She raised concerns about the company’s credit rating and said repairs are estimated to cost $25 million. She asked if the minister is concerned the company responsible for the build won’t be able to pay for the repairs.