March 2, 2021
Minister of Mental Health, Wellness and Recovery to Officially Lead Administration of the Mental Health Act
The Manitoba government has officially moved responsibility for the administration of the Mental Health Act to the minister of mental health, wellness and recovery from the minister of health and seniors care, Mental Health, Wellness and Recovery Minister Audrey Gordon announced today.
“Through my work in the health system, I know just how important it is for people to get the right care at the right place, and at the right time,” said Gordon. “Making these legislative changes in the administration of this important act will help ensure people get the quality mental health care they need in a timely way.”
The Mental Health Act sets out in law the admission and treatment requirements for patients in psychiatric facilities. The act also applies to individuals on leave from a facility as well as individuals under orders of committeeship living in the community.
The minister noted this change builds on the creation of the new department earlier this year, which will focus on developing a whole-of-government approach to providing mental health policy and program supports, as well as devising a provincial mental health, addictions and recovery plan.
“It’s very important to me that people can access culturally relevant, appropriate services that are right for them,” said Gordon. “Transitioning the administration of this legislation is a first step in the important work this department will be doing to help transform how people access mental health-care services.
The minister also noted the Manitoba government has invested nearly $50 million in 28 different projects to improve mental health and addictions services throughout the province. This includes programs and services for youth through community groups and in schools, supports provided through the justice system and acute health-care services.
For more information on mental health services in Manitoba, visit www.gov.mb.ca/health/mh/.
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