This release was issued under a previous government.
“It is a tragedy when a young person is lost to suicide. My heart goes out to those who knew and loved this young person. Our government recognizes that the rates of suicide for Indigenous youth are too high and we will continue to work closely across government, with Indigenous leaders and community partners to strengthen the way we support Indigenous children and families.
“We accept the Child and Youth Advocate’s recommendations and commit to carefully reviewing them as we explore necessary actions to address these issues.
“The sexual exploitation and abuse of children is a devastating crime. No child should have to experience violence, nor suffer silently as a survivor. Our government will continue to be there for children in need, ensuring supports are in place for those who need a place to turn for help.
“We have invested nearly $26 million across government to address sexual abuse and exploitation. This includes support for established child advocacy centres in Calgary, Edmonton and Grande Prairie, as well as the development of new centres in Fort McMurray, Lethbridge, Lloydminster and Red Deer. Through these investments, we are working toward establishing a province-wide network of supports and services for youth in need. This is an important step, but we know there is much more that can be done.
“Human Services has accepted the Advocate’s recommendations from the Voices for Change report on Indigenous youth suicide, and is leading the co-ordination and drafting of the government’s formal response to all 12 recommendations, along with partners in Education, Health, Indigenous Relations and Alberta Health Services. The cross-ministry team is reviewing the report to explore opportunities for systemic improvement to the way we support Indigenous youth. This work includes the development of a Youth Suicide Prevention Strategy, funding for research on Indigenous youth suicide and the development of a Cultural Understanding Framework.”