QUESTION PERIOD — Indigenous Services
Suicide Prevention
May 1, 2024
My question is for the government leader in the Senate. Senator Gold, my question concerns the current suicide crisis experienced by Indigenous peoples in Canada as well as young boys and men. Between 75% and 80% of suicides in Canada are committed by men. Suicide and suicide attempts among some Indigenous groups are among the highest in the world. I read through Budget 2024, and found a few instances where mental health and suicide prevention are mentioned. Would you be so kind as to share with us what the Government of Canada’s specific investments are relating to suicide prevention when it comes to Indigenous populations, young boys and men?
Thank you very much for this important question, for your advocacy on this issue and for your courage in your advocacy.
Budget 2024 includes $630.2 million over two years, starting in 2024-25, to support Indigenous peoples’ access to mental health services, including through distinctions-based mental wellness strategies. That is in addition to the $562.5 million in 2024-25 to support medically necessary services through the Non-Insured Health Benefits program, which is a program that supports a range of benefits for First Nations and Inuit people, including mental health services.
