Dear Constituents, 

I would like to use this opportunity to talk about the government’s issuance of capital bonds. This is the first opportunity in many years for Albertans to participate directly in building our province.

The first issuance will go to much needed senior’s accommodation. In 1960, children in Alberta outnumbered seniors by five to one. In just four years from now it is estimated there will be one person over the age of 65 for every child in the province. 

Many of our access issues with health care relate to a lack of appropriate accommodation for seniors. Therefore, many seniors who are currently in hospital beds could more appropriately be in alternative accommodation. This is not only better suited to their needs but significantly less expensive.

The government’s senior’s care strategy, entitled Aging in the Right Place, sets out a framework for a continuum of care. In the past, our regulations have stipulated that the patient must move in order to receive the appropriate care for their needs. The new strategy is to move the care to the patient. Many seniors are able to stay in their current residence much longer with the provision of nursing care where they live.

Funds generated through the Alberta capital bond initiative will help build accommodations ranging from long term care to supportive living, with a segment of the dollars used for group homes for persons with varying disabilities and mental health needs.

Many worthwhile projects could be financed through capital bonds; however, following a debate in the fall session of the legislature MLA’s continually expressed a view that accommodation for seniors is the highest priority.

The new accommodations are expected to become operational beginning in 2012. Projects will be determined based on priorities across the province.

Albertans reaction to this initial capital bond initiative will determine future bond decisions for other infrastructure projects in the province.

Thank you for your support and your contribution to making our province a great place to live.

Sincerely,


Ron Liepert, MLA
Calgary West