Native health plan "good first step," Goulais says

Bob Goulais says he’s “pleased” Prime Minister Paul Martin has offered a $700 million package to improve Native health.

Martin put the proposal forward today during a meeting with Canada’s premiers and its top Aboriginal leaders.

“This will go a long way to improve our community health programs,” said Goulais, spokesman for the Union of Ontario Indians, in North Bay.

“On the other hand significant investment is still needed in overcoming issues such as housing, overcrowding, water and sewer infrastructure, all of which are linked to the overall health in the community.”

Close the gap
Martin called the meeting, being held in Ottawa, an “historic opportunity” to improve native health, the Canadian Press reported, adding that aboriginals don’t live as long as the average Canadian and suffer from more disease.

“Together, we can and we must close the gap in health status,” Martin told Canadian Press.

Martin’s plan includes a $200-million health fund, $400 million for disease and suicide prevention, and the promise of increased annual funding to meet rising costs.

Identified needs
Locally, Goulais said, First Nations have “outgrown” their community health centres.

“We’ve also identified needs in nursing and for the development of a nursing home for our elderly,” Goulais said.

“These are things that need to be invested in locally, and our community health programs could also use a boost since current levels have been frozen for several years.”

Building blocks
While Goulais welcomes the news he said First Nations “need to be” part of the decision-making process “at all levels.”

“Our leadership should continue to meet face to face with first ministers on health, housing and constitutional issues,” Goulais said.

“Today’s news is a good first start and we’re hoping to be engaged in the dialogue and develop further building blocks for improvement in years to come.”