The latest numbers are welcome news for the province.

The latest numbers from the Saskatchewan Surgical Care Network comes are welcome news for the province.

In the six months ending September 2006, the numbers show that the total number of people waiting for surgery in the seven largest health regions has dropped by about 500 people.

Health Minister, Len Taylor, says the numbers show the government is working on the issue.

The government will be investing a targeted $8.9 million in federal funding to make surgical improvements, which will help reduce surgical wait times.

Numbers show 86% of the surgeries were completed within six months, while 93% were completed within one year.