Deputy Speaker, the ANC is determined to accelerate programmes for hospital revitalisation. This includes innovative solutions that can accommodate partnerships. The newly established hospital in the Thabo Mofutsanyane region of the Free State, in a small town called Ladybrand, will make life better for both local and neighbouring citizens. The new Mantsopa Hospital complex will not only create more than 900 jobs but will also empower local small, medium and micro enterprises, SMMEs. The hospital is part of the Free State government's massive infrastructure programme that will be rolled out across the province. The said hospital is due to open in January 2013. The hospital will boast 72 beds, two operating theatres and a sophisticated information technology system.
During the construction of the hospital approximately 1 000 people received jobs, of which 374 are permanent. Different services such as emergency medical services, rehabilitation therapy, an X-ray department and a mortuary will be provided by the hospital. The maternity unit will be of great relief to the Ladybrand community since people have had to travel more than 100 kilometers to Bloemfontein.
As the ANC-led government we are proud of this achievement because health is one of the key priorities. Thank you.