QUESTION PERIOD — Transport
Confederation Bridge
October 24, 2024
Senator Gold, P.E.I. has been grappling with a shortage of mental health workers, which makes it difficult for residents to receive timely support, especially in rural areas.
After two suicides in September on the Confederation Bridge, which is a federal responsibility, there are renewed calls to place barriers and other preventive measures. Will the federal government install barriers on the bridge? What other steps have been taken to improve access to mental health services in Prince Edward Island?
Well, there are two parts to your question, and thank you for raising both of them. I will raise the question further regarding work that may be done on the barriers with the appropriate minister.
With regard to access to mental health services, the federal government has made significant contributions to the provinces, and, in some cases, it’s earmarked for mental health support so that the provinces — within their constitutional jurisdiction over health — can have greater resources to address the needs of their citizens. The Government of Canada will continue to work with the provinces in that respect.
