This comes after a teenage boy committed suicide earlier this month resulting in the community declaring a state of emergency.

 

There have also been 17 suicide attempts and other deaths on the First Nation.

 

When asked by Ashton whether the Liberal government would step up to assist Red Sucker Lake, Indigenous Services Minister Patty Hajdu had this to say......

 

“We agree with the Member opposite that it is unacceptable to have such levels of disparity across this country for First Nations people.  That’s why we committed to closing the socio-economic gap by 2030, that’s why we doubled out efforts in investing in infrastructure and mental health and wellness and support for communities like Red Sucker Lake across this country will continue, Mr. Speaker, to do more with First Nations Partners because every child deserves a fair chance to succeed.”

 

Last week the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs called on the federal government to send in mental health counsellors and fund community programs to improve the lives of youth on reserve.