Canadian Psychiatrists Heartened by MacKay's Statement Today That Mental Health of Soldiers is His Top Priority: Money and Personnel Announced

OTTAWA, Sept. 12, 2012 /CNW/ - The Minister of Defence's statement today that the mental health needs of military personnel are his number one priority, accompanied by an announcement of more money and personnel to strengthen mental health care delivery to Canadian soldiers, is heartening says the Canadian Psychiatric Association (CPA).

Canadian psychiatrists applaud the Minister for his good judgement in reversing a proposed $2.7 million cut which would have seen the elimination of nine contracted physicians in nine of the Canadian Force's (CF) largest mental health clinics.

CPA is encouraged by the announcement of an additional $11.4 million dollars this year to provide mental health care to CF personnel.  The Minister has also indicated that this $11.4 million will be permanently reallocated to the overall Canadian Forces Health Care budget.

"The Canadian Forces is right to take pride in its mental health program which has been recognized by its NATO allies and civilian organizations.  But as the Minister says we can always do better and we thank him for his current efforts." said Dr. Fiona McGregor, President of the CPA.  "Canadian psychiatrists look forward to continuing to collaborate with the Department of National Defence and other government departments to improve mental health care to Canadian soldiers."

The Canadian Psychiatric Association is the national voice for Canada's 4,100 psychiatrists and more than 600 psychiatric residents. Founded in 1951, the CPA is dedicated to promoting an environment that fosters excellence in the provision of clinical care, education and research.

SOURCE: Canadian Psychiatric Association

Hélène Côté
[email protected]
1-613-234-2815 (232) or 1-613-297-5038