Wave of suicides in Nunavik - The Gouvernement du Québec to participate in an emergency meeting with regional Inuit authorities

QUÉBEC CITY, Oct. 31, 2018 /CNW Telbec/ - A delegation of the Gouvernement du Québec, accompanied by Denis Lamothe, MNA for Ungava, is participating in an emergency meeting organized by Kativik Ilisarniliriniq (the Kativik School Board) taking place today in Kuujjuaq. Québec's new government is concerned about this situation, and wishes to support Indigenous communities.

In order to understand all aspects of this complex issue, representatives of the Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement supérieur, the Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux and the Secrétariat aux affaires autochtones are attending this two-day meeting to inform themselves of the situation and of the needs and priorities that will be expressed by local Inuit organizations. The ministries concerned will then be advised of the measures to be taken.

Quotation:

"This situation is tragic, and no community should have to suffer it. On behalf of the Gouvernement du Québec, I extend my most heartfelt condolences to the families and to all the communities that are affected by this drama. I offer my utmost support to the population of Nunavik, and assure them of the government's determination to work with the local organizations to seek solutions that are respectful of the Inuit and of their institutions."

Sylvie D'Amours, Minister responsible for Indigenous Affairs

SOURCE Cabinet du ministre responsable des Affaires autochtones

Sources: Office of the Minister responsible for Indigenous Affairs, 418 528-8407; Information: Jean Auclair, Media Relations, Direction des communications, Ministère du Conseil exécutif, 418 643-0875, ext. 4064