Good afternoon, Mr. Speaker. Yesterday I was very pleased to hear the Minister of Health and Social Services announce in this House funding and supports to introduce on-the-land healing programs. Finally we are returning to this much needed land-based Aboriginal cultural healing environment.
In October 2014 I spoke in this House about the successful on-the-land program at Six Mile Creek outside of Fort Simpson that should serve as a territorial model for early intervention of alcohol and drug abuse amongst the youth.
A pilot program had 22 students. It was designed to build youth identity, increase physical activity and establish an Aboriginal cultural link to the land and animals. The facilitators also taught life skills, emotion management, self-control, fostering well-being, healthy relationships and a sense of identity was also learned.
This project and other pilot projects on the land from last year will certainly provide a standard as we begin to build on this. I think the most important issue is about getting back on the land and back to our roots. We live in a highly modern and stressful world. The programming supports and approved projects will give clients and participants time away from it all and concentrate on their recovery and mental health.
I did note in the Minister’s statement that there was no specific plan for the Deh Cho at this time. I urge the Minister to request his department to finalize a plan quickly so that our youth or adult clients can take advantage of a program this summer.
The Minister is aware, when he visited last fall, of the excellent facility over at Six Mile Creek up the river from Fort Simpson. There is no reason why that exact same location cannot be used. The department has by now evaluated the lessons learned from the pilot program from last year. I am certain that the recommendations will form the development of an excellent land-based healing program for our youth. I just want to say that I am supportive of building on and continuing these supports for our youth.
In closing, indeed, we need to reach out and provide this on-the-land programing throughout the whole Northwest Territories for our youth in their time of need as they will be our future, Mr. Speaker. Mahsi cho.
Thank you, Mr. Menicoche. The honourable Member for Hay River South, Mrs. Groenewegen.
