Thank you, Mr. Speaker. On December 3rd to 8th, the Standing Committee on Social Development and the Minister of Health and Social Services had the opportunity to visit the four treatment centres that the Government of the Northwest Territories has contracts with, that provide treatment programs for the residents of the NWT. As well, we had the opportunity to visit Guthrie House, part of the BC Corrections, that provide residents and inmates with the unique program that helps them deal with trauma and addictions. Mr. Speaker, the trip was about clearer links between addictions and mental health in the NWT and mental health hospitalizations. Harm caused by alcohol consumption and growing community concerns regarding fentanyl use also weighs on Northerners' minds. This tour will give us a better understanding of the experience of NWT residents in treatment and recovery and of how we can improve our programs and services.

As we all have witnessed loved ones and friends struggle with addictions, trauma and/or mental illness over the years, this trip was an eye-opener for me. We witnessed first-hand the programs and had the opportunity to speak to some of the residents. They spoke about the treatment programs and why they were working for themselves. I realize that these facilities are down south and that this is a struggle for some. I wish we could have the capacity in the North to deal with these issues, but, until we get there, southern facilities may be our best option. In my discussions with some of the residents, they like the privacy to work on bettering themselves away from their home community. They like the fact these four facilities and their programs offer the tools that a person needs to get well, an opportunity to seek further healing, individual and group counseling, and to be able to adapt and recognize the importance of the personal, cultural, spirituality, and after-care support.

One of the key points of this trip for me was treatment only works if the person makes the commitment themselves to get better. They need to do it for themselves. All we can do is love and care for them as they go on this journey. It sounds simple, but it is not. Please show your support and encouragement to them. It is always the darkest before we see the light. I believe we will succeed together. There is hope. We need to talk about how we can help each other. I will have questions for the Minister of Health and Social Services later on. Thank you.