Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the Nunakput region with its communities of Paulatuk, Sachs Harbour, Tuktoyaktuk, and Ulukhaktok may be remote, but our communities are close-knit. Because we are close to our families, friends, and neighbours, Mr. Speaker, I know that many are struggling with matters of mental health. When we gathered in the House in February, I spoke about the terrible impacts of suicide on communities in my region. More broadly, Mr. Speaker, mental health needs in our communities continues to demand our attention. In the past, the Minister of Health and Social Services highlighted the various activities in Nunakput, including workshops, sharing circles, mental health first aid training, and work to raise awareness about the link between substance abuse and suicide risks. I commend this important work, Mr. Speaker, and I want it to continue. Life in the far north brings many benefits. We are able to live our traditional lifestyles, to pass on our cultural history and knowledge, and to enjoy our beautiful land each day. Yet, we are also faced with unique challenges, for example when people in my region don’t always have access to health services you would further south. Social workers, doctors, and counsellors are often based in another community, usually in Inuvik, and this can make it hard for residents to access the help they need or to build relationships with care workers. If you are part of a vulnerable group, Mr. Speaker, like children and youth or women who have experienced domestic violence, it only gets harder. Mr. Speaker, if anyone listening today has questions about mental health or would like to talk, the NWT Help Line could be called at 1-800-661-0844. You can also reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or an elder, or talk to a healthcare or social worker or an RCMP officer. I know that at times it feels hard, even impossible, in our regions where they are so remote and alone. We are all in this together. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Masi. Members’ statements. Member for Frame Lake.
