October 11, 2005 Source: St. Francis Xavier University:
http://www.stfx.ca/media/10_2005.htm#gasha StFX and local health authority strike unique agreement ANTIGONISH, NS --- An exclusive agreement has been struck between St. Francis Xavier University (StFX) and the Guysborough Antigonish Strait Health Authority (GASHA) to develop new research collaborations and strengthen existing ones. "We at StFX are very pleased to have entered into this Memorandum of Understanding with the Guysborough Antigonish Strait Health Authority concerning collaboration in research," says Mary McGillivray, Academic Vice-President and Provost. "Our faculty members' work stands to be enhanced by the prospect of pooling or sharing resources with members of GASHA in the pursuit of research in the areas of public health, and in the related areas of education and policy-making as well as in data collection and public dissemination of information, to name only a few of the possibilities. Our students, too, will benefit as prospective research assistants in any co-operative projects that may arise from this agreement in principle. We are all looking forward to the growth of this initiative." The agreement between the two organizations is general in nature. Both parties will discuss issues such as funding, policy development and liability when they are ready to venture into a new project. Research will focus on projects that will enhance both organizations and the community at large. "Research informs the practice of health practitioners working in hospitals and the community," says Kevin MacDonald, CEO of the Guysborough Antigonish Strait Health Authority. "Participation in local research initiatives has the potential to enhance our services, build capacity in our employees and benefit our clients and patients. Working with StFX on research will have the added benefit of providing experiential opportunities for students and meeting other community needs." GASHA is responsible for delivering health services and programs to the 49,000 residents of Antigonish Town and County, Guysborough County, Richmond County and the southern portion of Inverness County. StFX is in the midst of a major renovation and expansion of its research infrastructure. The new Science Centre, for example, houses advanced research laboratories, classrooms and other research-related facilities supported by innovative technologies and computing resources.
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