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Manitoba is set to modernize its fleet of ambulances.

Health, seniors and active living minister Cameron Friesen said Monday that the upgrade is part of an effort to help paramedics respond more quickly and effectively to medical emergencies.

“Every day, paramedics take life-saving care directly to hundreds of patients, responding to 911 calls as well as transporting patients to and between hospitals and other care facilities,” said Friesen. Tweet This

The province will purchase 65 ambulances – building on the work already underway to implement the recommendations of a 2013 review of emergency systems.

READ MORE: New ambulance routing part of transition at Concordia Hospital

That work includes $5 million to fund 60 permanent paramedic positions in rural Manitoba, 35 of which have already been filled. It also includes the construction of new EMS stations in some rural areas.

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“This significant investment will ensure our paramedics continue to have the right equipment to support the excellent care they provide to Manitobans,” said Friesen.

“This includes the creation of a consistent, integrated EMS and patient transport model as part of Manitoba’s broader health system transformation.”

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