Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mental health is critical for the health and well-being for our people. We all have felt the impact from our measures to keep the spread of COVID-19 under control. Symptoms like anxiety and depressive disorders are said to be increasing, in particular in your younger adults. Some people even ask for a vaccine to deal with mental health side effects from COVID.

I'm concerned, Mr. Speaker, that, in the riding of Nunakput and the Beaufort-Delta, there is a lack of mental health support, particularly in Inuvialuit men and our youths. The struggle resulting from residential schools is not over. The impacts are still felt. Housing in small communities is limited. Some homes are crowded, which adds extra stress and frustration, which could lead to anguish and addictions. Sadly, food insecurity and poverty are no strangers to residents. Pursuing traditional activities or going out on the land are very expensive and difficult to afford.

Mr. Speaker, mental health is not a luxury. Our communities are small. We have limited health resources. Social workers, doctors, and counsellors are often based in other communities, usually in Inuvik, which can make access difficult for some residents in the communities. Online programs such as Mental Health First Aid or confidential online chats through the NWT Help Line Facebook page are important for Northerners.

This government has to get serious about reconciliation. It needs a more aggressive action plan for mental health supports in our communities. Reconciliation needs to be a planned action, with increased supports for crisis response, intervention, and healing. Mental wellness services need to include the culture and language of our people, draw on the wisdom of our elders, and be culturally relevant. I will have questions for the Minister of Health and Social Services at the appropriate time. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.