NSPS partners support jury recommendations resulting from the coroner’s inquest

IQALUIT, Nunavut (September 29, 2015) – The four partners of the Nunavut Suicide Prevention Strategy (NSPS) have been presented with the jury recommendations from the coroner’s inquest into suicide in the territory. All partners are fully committed to preventing and reducing suicide in Nunavut, and will review the jury recommendations.

“Far too many of us have been affected by suicide. Nunavummiut must come together to support individuals, families and communities in times of need,” said Minister of Health Paul Okalik, speaking on behalf of the NSPS partners. “The bottom line is that suicide is tragic and preventable. By working together and supporting Nunavummiut struggling with mental illness and suicide, we can build a healthier territory.”

The Government of Nunavut (GN), Nunavut Tunngavik Inc., the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Embrace Life Council will review the jury’s recommendations and will give full consideration to incorporating specific recommendations. The recommendations from the NSPS evaluation report, the coroner’s inquest recommendations, best practices and lessons learned by the partners, will be used to determine the next steps in the development of suicide prevention in Nunavut.

The coroner’s suicide inquest provided families, agencies, experts and the GN an opportunity to come together to examine issues surrounding suicide in Nunavut.

###

Media Contacts:

Ron Wassink
A/Manager, Communications and Public Relations
Department of Health
867-975-5710
rwassink@gov.nu.ca

Kerry McCluskey
Director of Communications
Nunavut Tunngavik Inc.
867-975-4914
kmccluskey@tunngavik.com

Jasmine Redfern
Acting President
Embrace Life Council
867-975-3233
jredfern@tunngavik.com

David Lawson, Cpl
“V” Division Media Relations
RCMP
867-222-3977
VDIV_MEDIA.VDIV_IQ_Det.VDiv@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

NT5