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Province's Minister of Infrastructure tours Willow Square and Health Centre

Minister of Infrastructure Prasad Panda was in Fort McMurray Monday and Tuesday.

He toured Willow Square Continuing Care Centre and the hospital, among others.

He also met with MLAs Laila Goodridge and Tany Yao.

“It’s really progressing well, very nicely. They’re finishing both the projects on time and on budget so they’ll be done this winter.”

He added the new facilities will be world class.

Panda said the oil and gas industry has reached out to him about another route out of the city.

Before anything can be done, he said consultations need to be done with the Mayor, council and local MLAs.

Having worked for Suncor for 11 years, Panda said he’s fully aware of our community’s needs, but the province is currently on track to hit $100 billion debt.

He said the provincial government is looking at “all options” and is committed to continuing with the four year capital plan.

“While we said we will be fiscally responsible, we also said we’ll deliver by building infrastructure projects for the prosperous future of Albertans.”

He said they’re looking at public and private partnerships and is looking at each region’s needs.

Panda is expected to meet with Mayor Don Scott Tuesday afternoon.