I was pleased to join MLA Josie Osborne's Community Office Open House at Union Bay and Cumberland last week. Thanks to all those local residents for sharing their views with me about local issues, including shipbreaking at Baynes Sound and the lack of action by the federal government. I have been advocating for the adoption of shipbuilding standards that require standards for recycling along the lines of the EU regulations. In Cumberland, the protection of ecosystems and watersheds was high on the agenda for many, along with the need for increased investment in crating more child care spaces; and, the issue of affordable housing.
Mood Disorders Society of Canada Meeting
It was a privilege to meet with representatives from Mood Disorders Society of Canada recently in Ottawa to discuss the important role of community organizations and peer support workers in helping Canadians with mental illnesses. They spoke about how the chronic underfunding of Canada’s mental health sector limits the ability of non-profit organizations to expand services and meet growing demand. We agreed that investing in community mental health organizations could reduce pressures on the healthcare system and help Canadians who are struggling. Finally, we talked about my Private Member’s Bill, C-414, which is pushing for parity between physical and mental health in our universal, public healthcare system. Canada is facing a mental health crisis and it’s clear we need systemic change so everyone can access care when they need it most.