Fraser-Nicola MLA Tegart focuses on wildfire recovery plans and mental health as legislative session begins

Oct 5, 2021 | 10:42 AM

MERRITT, B.C. — The B.C. Legislature has reconvened for a six-week fall session.

Fraser-Nicola Liberal MLA Jackie Tegart represents a vast region of the Interior that was heavily affected by the wildfire season and is looking to push the government to formalize recovery plans for the devastated communities.

“This is a time for us to highlight some of the challenges around the wildfire experience this summer and particularly for the community of Lytton and any other area affected by wildfire,” said Tegart. “I will be pressing the government on recovery plans, support for people who were affected in all kinds of ways over the summer, and holding the government to account for that support for the residents of Fraser-Nicola.”

On the first day of the new session, Tegart stood in the house to address further mental health and substance abuse resources being needed.

“Be it resolved, that this house agree that current measures have not adequately addressed the opioid epidemic and commit to making mental health and addictions a priority in British Columbia,” stated Tegart. “The mental health strain it’s having on our front-line workers is unimaginable. COVID has shed light on many gaps in our health care system. The ongoing pandemic, along with BC’s second public health emergency, the opioid crisis, is not only impacting the mental health of our health care workers but all British Columbians.”

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“I firmly believe we can’t tackle the ongoing overdose crisis without also tackling our inadequate mental health supports,” added Tegart. “I also believe that this needs to start with our children, in our homes and our schools.”

Tegart also took the time to encourage people to get vaccinated against COVID-19.

“In order to keep yourself, your family, and your community safe, please take advantage of vaccination clinics in your community,” said Tegart.

by Michael Reeve / Q-101 Merritt

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Fraser-Nicola MLA Tegart focuses on wildfire recovery plans and mental health as legislative session begins

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