Member’s Statement: Youth Roundtable

Mr. Speaker, last night I held the first meeting of the youth roundtable I have established in my riding as another means to ensure that youth have a voice in this Legislature. Students from middle schools, high schools, our universities and colleges are participating. The number one priority that emerged from last night’s discussions was the pressing need for a priority to be placed on youth mental health in our schools and on our campuses.  The New Brunswick Health Council reports that 35% of youth ages 12 to 19 could not rate their mental health as very good, and for boys the percentage is 41%. In rearranging priorities as a result of the Program Review, Mr. Speaker, youth mental health and wellness must finally become one. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Member’s Statement – Youth Roundtable
David Coon, MLA, Fredericton South
Leader of the Green Party
Thursday, February 19, 2015