The Government of Canada and the Northwest Territories signed a bilateral agreement today.
The agreement includes funding to improve and strengthen the Territories’ health care.
Minister of Health and Social Services, Glen Abernethy, alongside Member of Parliament Michael McLeod, said the agreement will also focus on mental health issues, addressing the need for better care.
“We’re be providing targeted investment for mental health and addictions to develop and implement a territorial suicide and prevention crisis support network.”
He added: “This network will enhance comfortably appropriate approaches to suicide prevention, provide support to communities to build a sense of hope and meaning, while also improving our ability to provide timely responses to community needs in the event of a crisis.”
While not present at the photo-op, the Federal Minister of Health, Ginette Petitpas Taylor, stated that she was happy the funding announced today will go towards helping people in need.
“The funding announced today will help make a positive difference in the health and well-being of Canadians who proudly live and work in the Northwest Territories. I am pleased that our governments have been able to work together to help address issues that matter to Canadians, such as mental health and strengthening home and community care.”
The Northwest Territories will be investing over $6 million over the next five years.
In the 2021-22 year, the agreement will be renewed for another five years to complete a ten year commitment.
Federally, the Government of Canada will be investing $11 billion over ten years to all provinces and territories.
