Health and Community Services
December 7, 2016

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Health and Community Services:

Minister Haggie Recognizes the Work of the Gathering Place

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise in this Honourable House today to recognize the work of the Gathering Place, and in particular, the work of their Parish Nurses. These are volunteer nurses helping to meet the needs of those accessing health care services from the new Downtown Health Care Collaborative Clinic, an inter-disciplinary health care team located at the Gathering Place in St. John's.

These dedicated volunteers and staff provide essential primary health care services for people in vulnerable circumstances. They cultivate the type of environment where independence, self-respect and dignity are fostered.

I had the pleasure of visiting the Gathering Place recently and seeing first-hand how this partnership is helping individuals at risk; many whom are homeless, in less-than-desirable housing situations, unemployed, or struggling with mental health issues and addiction.

Mr. Speaker, the depth of professionalism and compassion shown by the staff and volunteers at the Gathering Place is outstanding, and I commend their good work.

Mr. Speaker, when citizens have good mental and physical health they are able to contribute to every aspect of community life. This is why our government is supporting such community agencies as the Gathering Place, expanding primary health care teams throughout the province, and adopting a health in all policies approach to governance.

Thank you.

2016 12 07             2:20 p.m.