The rate of suicide attempts and the rate of suicides in the Cree Nation have reached an alarming level. We must now, and will, make the introduction of suicide prevention programs a top priority for the Cree Nation.

we have recently completed very successful negotiations with the Province of Quebec on the proper implementation of those sections of the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement dealing with health and social services. We will now be in a position to put in place a wide range of social services in the communities which our Cree Health Board has never been in a position to do. We know our communities have for a long time been crying out for the need to do much more in the area of social services, and I can tell you now that we can and will make that a much greater priority than it has ever been.

We are now in a position to take genuine responsibility for putting into place the kinds of programs and services which are relevant and appropriate for our people. A new Strategic Regional Plan for the Cree Health Board will be developed, new Integrated Service Units will be established, special measures will be possible to address priority needs in the communities, and there will be stable funding to ensure that we can implement these initiatives.

To our youth I say:
If there is one truth that I believe, it is that there is no greater satisfaction in life, no greater high, and nothing which gives any greater purpose to life than devoting yourself to the service of your people. There is nothing which gets you out of personal ruts, depression or confusion more effectively than dedication to doing the right thing for your Nation. Become involved in the affairs of your community and your Nation and find your place in Cree society. We need you, and we need you to be the best you can be.