Skeena’s newly-elected Conservative MLA, Claire Rattée, is focusing on mental health and addiction services in her new role. As the critic for both sectors, Rattée aims to push for more support, particularly in rural and underserved areas like Terrace, which has one of the highest overdose death rates in the province. Rattée, who has personal experience overcoming mental health and addiction struggles, says these issues were central to her election platform and that her background makes her well-suited for the task.
She is critical of the NDP’s recent decision to merge health and mental health ministries, calling it a “radical” move without adequate safeguards or treatment options. Rattée advocates for a balanced approach to addiction, emphasizing harm prevention and addressing the root causes of addiction. She is calling for more accessible treatment and recovery centers, along with comprehensive support services. Rattée believes the right kind of support can help individuals turn their lives around and is determined to work for solutions that prioritize recovery, safety, and compassion.
