Masi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I want to send a positive message to our youth so that they stay away from the dangerous path some people are taking.
Mr. Speaker, drugs are still affecting communities in the Tlicho region. On Tuesday, RCMP in Whati were told about drugs being sold out of a home with children. An Alberta youth was arrested for suspected crack cocaine trafficking and possessing a restricted handgun. In Behchoko, one of my constituents said there has been a pandemic of overdoses recently.
Mr. Speaker, we are seeing more young people using their income support payments, which are intended for essential needs, to buy drugs and fuel destructive behaviour. This money is meant to help, not harm. In response, the Tlicho region is taking steps to offer support and recovery options. The Tlicho Addiction Recovery Project received a $1.9 million commitment from Ottawa and will help people. The program is led by the Tlicho Friendship Centre. The money will help fund much needed counselling, recovery, coaching, and aftercare services for individuals to start healing.
Mr. Speaker, I want young people in all Tlicho communities to go down a path of recovery and wellness. We must continue to empower our youth with traditional knowledge, resources, and family support that they need to make positive choices. Maybe make a good career choice to be a Tlicho astronaut. I hope together we can guide young people in the territory towards a brighter, healthier future. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Thank you, Member from Monfwi. Members' statements. Member from Frame Lake.
