Darrell Greer
Northern News Services

Rankin Inlet (Dec 05/01) - The new Kivalliq regional health centre in Rankin Inlet is one step closer to becoming a reality.

Ed Picco: "This is a good deal."

Health Minister Ed Picco and Sakku Investments Corp. chairperson Peter Tatty signed a service contract agreement in Rankin Inlet on Nov. 25 which will help pave the way for construction to begin on the facility.

Picco said the signing of the service contract represents the next step on the long road to having a new health facility in Rankin Inlet.

"The service contract is, basically, for the administrative and logistical work that needs to be done on the project," said Picco.

"The contract actually represents the pre-construction stage, which allows for the final design, awarding of materials, fabrication of steel and so on."

Negotiations are ongoing between the Nunavut government and Sakku on the final development and lease agreements, which should be completed during the next 30 to 90 days.

It is estimated the new health facility in Rankin Inlet will cost about $15 million to construct.

Picco said the Government of Nunavut will be using the Sakku agreement as a template for similar facilities to be constructed in the Baffin and Kitikmeot regions.

"We feel this is a good deal for the Government of Nunavut.

"We're trying to do the three projects in concert, but the Kivalliq project is a bit ahead of the other two."

Rankin Inlet MLAs Manitok Thompson and Jack Anawak were on hand for the signing.

Thompson said the project will have a positive impact on the Kivalliq area.

"The result will be a health facility that will improve access to needed services in the Kivalliq," said Thompson.

Anawak said he's excited about having the new health facility in his riding.

"This health centre is proof that the public and private sector can come together for the common goals of all Nunavummiut," said Anawak.

Tatty refused to comment on the contract signing when contacted by the Kivalliq News.