Report From Parliament Hill:

Eric Melillo, MP, Kenora Riding

Dear Constituents,

I hope everyone is taking some time after the long winter we’ve just had to get outside and enjoy the spring weather.
Strengthening Mental Health Supports
The past two years have been filled with lockdowns, restrictions, isolation and uncertainty.  All of which have put the mental health of Canadians to the test. For many, it has been an extremely difficult two years.  Rates of anxiety, and depression have hit all-time highs, and an increasing number of Canadians have admitted to experiencing suicidal thoughts.
April 25th marked 500 days since the Conservative motion calling on the government to implement a three digit suicide hotline (9-8-8) passed unanimously in the House of Commons. However, over the past 500 days the government has continuously delayed the implementation of this three digit line. 
To this day, the status of 9-8-8 is still unknown. 
My colleagues and I will continue advocating for the swift implementation of 9-8-8.  In times of crisis, I believe help should only be three digits away.
Ending the Blood Ban
This week, Health Canada approved the lifting of the discriminatory blood donation ban for gay and bisexual men.  Canadian Blood Services expects the new policy will take effect prior to September 30th, 2022.  I am extremely proud of my colleague MP Eric Duncan, from Southern Ontario for his hard-work and dedication to ensuring Canada’s blood donation services are safe and inclusive for all. 
Working for You
As always, if there is anything my office can assist you with, please call me at 807-223-2182 (Dryden) or 807-468-2170 (Kenora) or email me at eric.melillo@parl.gc.ca.
Sincerely,
Eric Melillo
Member of Parliament