Government continues to move forward with the implementation of suicide prevention initiatives in various regions of Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Honourable Tom Rideout, Minister responsible for Aboriginal Affairs, today announced that funding has been made available to the Federation of Newfoundland Indians (FNI) for the administration of suicide prevention initiatives throughout the central and western regions of the island.

"The FNI has several bands throughout the province, and the organization will bring this program to each of them," said Minister Rideout. "In this way, the FNI will ensure that all youth have the opportunity to avail of these services. Our government is committed to ensuring that Aboriginal suicide continues to be addressed, and we are extremely pleased to make this funding available for this very worthwhile initiative."

In Budget 2006, government provided $120,000 over two years for suicide prevention initiatives under the Suicide Prevention Grants Program of the Department of Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs. The FNI has been provided with $12,000 for the delivery of these services.

"The FNI is extremely pleased that government has extended financial assistance to develop an outline of a Youth Prevention Suicide Program for our young people," said Brendan Sheppard, president of FNI. "I look forward to a continued working relationship with the Provincial Government on such programs that are of utmost importance to our people."

"Government continues to make the prevention of suicide a top priority," said Minister Rideout. "This is part of our overall commitment to all Aboriginal peoples throughout Newfoundland and Labrador."

The FNI is expected to begin its program in the coming days. Further projects will be announced as details are finalized.

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Media contact:
Lori Lee Oates
Director of Communications
Aboriginal Affairs
709-729-3733, 690-8403
oatesll@gov.nl.ca

2007 03 20                                                  10:15 a.m.