Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I will be speaking in the House regarding the elder abuse.
Mr. Speaker, we know that there's a lot of abuse happening in the Northwest Territories and especially in Tlicho region. So today, Mr. Speaker, we have heard and seen there are many forms of elder abuse here in the North, and not enough is done to prevent it. This abuse can be in the form of financial abuse, physical abuse, psychological abuse, sexual abuse, health care fraud and abuse, elder abandonment. For example, we have young people extorting elders for their pensions or forcibly moving into elders' homes without consent. Seniors are falling victim to cybercrime and scams. Some elders suffer in silence enduring the pain. They don't share about what is happening in their lives. It is difficult for them to take actions to protect themselves because they do not want to feel guilty if anything happens to their abusers who may be their loved ones. Our elders worked hard raising their families. They should be treated with respect and loved for who they are. They do matter, Mr. Speaker, and they should be able to enjoy the remaining years they have on earth with us.
Mr. Speaker, the Premier wrote in his mandate letter to the Ministers, quote, I have not assigned symbolic client-based portfolios for youth, seniors and persons with disabilities. I interpret this to mean that in a way everyone is somewhat responsible to ensure the needs of seniors are met. However, no one is accountable.
Mr. Speaker, what is the government doing to do to intervene, support, and protect our elders? I will have questions for the Minister of Health and Social Services. Thank you.
Thank you, Member from Monfwi. Members' statements. Member from Tu Nedhe-Wiilideh.
