Debates of October 20, 2022 (day 124)

Date
October
20
2022
Session
19th Assembly, 2nd Session
Day
124
Members Present
Hon. Diane Archie, Mr. Bonnetrouge, Hon. Paulie Chinna, Ms. Cleveland, Hon. Caroline Cochrane, Mr. Edjericon, Hon. Julie Green, Mr. Jacobson, Mr. Johnson, Ms. Martselos, Ms. Nokleby, Mr. O'Reilly, Ms. Semmler, Hon. R.J. Simpson, Mr. Rocky Simpson, Hon. Shane Thompson, Hon. Caroline Wawzonek, Ms. Weyallon-Armstrong.
Topics
Statements

Question 1215-19(2): Treatment Programs

Thank you. Thank you, Madam Speaker. With reference to the Minister's response to a previous question, it is really sad because and unfortunate because we have many people in the small communities who are suffering with trauma, especially with trauma experience especially from all the loss, loss of life due to addiction. We know that people want to heal and move forward. So with that in mind, will the Minister commit to a renewed approach and rebuild effective and respectful working relationship with Poundmaker's Lodge in order to renew the service contract and ensure Indigenous Northerners and communities have access to their Creator, community, and Indigenousfocused treatment solutions? Thank you.

Speaker: DEPUTY SPEAKER

Thank you, Member. Minister of Health and Social Services.

Yes, thank you. There's been issues with the contract with Poundmaker's Lodge. They initiated the cancellation of their contract and that takes effect at the end of October. There were a number of contractual issues that relate to services not being delivered as contracted. I'm personally disappointed that this relationship is not stronger. I have met many people in my life who have been to Poundmaker's and who have been very satisfied with the services that they've received there and have achieved longterm sobriety, which I think is the goal that we all are hoping for. So I have committed to meeting with the executive director of Poundmaker's to see if it is possible to resolve the issues that are outstanding. And that meeting will take place on Monday. Thank you.

Well, I just want to ask the Minister if she reached out to you know, to them because the clinical director of the program is in town and if she wants to, I can arrange for the meeting to take place. Thank you.

Yes, thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, I'm meeting with the executive director on Monday. I appreciate the offer from the Member.