I rise in this House today in recognition of Mental Health Week, which takes place from May 7-13, 2007. The theme of this year�s Mental Health Week is Work-Life Balance: It�s a Matter of Time.

Often, individuals are so overwhelmed with work, family and other responsibilities that finding an appropriate work-life balance becomes a challenge. This year�s Mental Health Week serves to remind us that it is important to take time for ourselves. It is also important for employers to recognize that a good work-life balance results in enhanced productivity and reduced absenteeism in the workplace.

Government recognizes that a person�s mental health is as important as their physical health. When we have good mental health we are able to enjoy life to the fullest and be more productive, creative and capable citizens. That�s why we are making investments to create a stronger mental health and addictions services system in our province.

During the past three years, we have invested $5.7 million to assist persons with mental health and addictions issues in leading healthier lives. In 2005, we officially released a new policy framework which sets out a comprehensive strategy for the mental health and addictions system. A new Mental Health Care and Treatment Act, scheduled to be proclaimed later this year, will focus on the protection and treatment of people living with severe mental illness.

I am pleased to say that Budget 2007 builds on our commitment to an improved mental health and addictions system. We are investing $1.6 million this year to implement both the policy framework and new legislation. We are also introducing a new provincial eating disorders program so that the majority of patients will no longer have to travel outside the province to receive treatment. In recognition of the importance of providing appropriate infrastructure for mental health and addictions services, we are investing another $1.3 million this year, as part of a $4.8 million project, to redesign and redevelop the forensic and developmentally delayed units at the Waterford Hospital. And, we will continue construction of a new provincial addictions centre in Corner Brook.

I would like to remind my Colleagues in this Honourable House of the importance of an appropriate work-life balance by asking them to fill out a work-life balance quiz, provided by the Canadian Mental Health Association. Furthermore, I ask all colleagues and residents of the province to join me in recognizing Mental Health Week in our province.

2007 05 08                                                     2:05 p.m.