For Immediate Release
          December 4, 2008

UNANIMOUS SUPPORT FOR ELLIOTT’S MENTAL HEALTH RESOLUTION
Elliott’s Private Member’s Resolution passed in house this afternoon

(Queen’s Park) – Ontario Progressive Conservative MPP Christine Elliott (Whitby-Oshawa) debated her Private Member’s Resolution today in the Legislature.  The Resolution proposed that an all party Select Committee be struck to create a comprehensive provincial mental health and addictions strategy.

Elliott’s Resolution not only received the support of her caucus and mental health organizations across Ontario, but was given unanimous consent in the Legislature by all parties.

“This is truly a non-partisan issue,” said Elliott, “and I do appreciate the support that has been extended by Minister Caplan, many government members and members of the third party, as well as the members of my caucus.”

“This is an important step in addressing the challenges and stigma facing mental health and addiction in Ontario,” said MPP Laurie Scott (Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock) who is also the Official Opposition Critic for the Ministry of Health Promotion.  “MPP Elliott’s motion will put the Select Committee into action by providing clear timelines and reasonable targets.”

Fellow caucus member, MPP Frank Klees (Newmarket-Aurora) endorsed Elliott during debates this afternoon as well, saying “There is no question that we need a comprehensive mental health and addictions strategy. By bringing this issue to the floor of the Legislature, Christine Elliott has secured the support of the Legislature and now it's up to the government to act". 

-30-

For more information:

Christine Elliott
(905) 430-1141