The Canadian Mental Health Association of New Brunswick’s Response to the Auditor General’s audit findings on access to addiction and mental health services.

Dec 10, 2024

FREDERICTON, NB – Today’s tabling of the Auditor General’s report, including a report on access to addiction and mental health, is cause for concern for the Canadian Mental Health Association of New Brunswick (CMHANB). 

“Today’s report underlines some clear challenges that are present within our health care system that need to be adequately addressed.” Says Christa Baldwin, Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Mental Health Association of New Brunswick. “The need for timely access to mental health and addiction services is paramount and increasing daily.” 

The Auditor General’s findings come within days of the Canadian Mental Health Association releasing its own “State of Mental Health in Canada 2024” on November 19, 2024. Amongst its findings, the report details: 

• The need for greater investment in mental health and addiction services. Currently, New Brunswick invests roughly 6% of its budget, where the report indicates it should at least be doubled to 12%. 

• The mental health of Canadians is three times worse than before the pandemic and millions of people can’t get the care they need. 

• Federal and provincial governments are not collecting adequate and actionable data to inform robust investment and policy. 

“We are encouraged by the position of this government to place a priority on mental health services for New Brunswickers. We are also hopeful that the government of New Brunswick will reinstate the Mental Health Services Advisory Committee as the Auditor General suggests.” Says, Baldwin. “Mental Health and Addiction requires collaboration amongst all stakeholders to ensure that New Brunswickers receive the care they need, where they need it, when they need it.”  

The Canadian Mental Health Association of New Brunswick is the non-profit provincial leader and champion for mental health, addiction and substance use. It is part of a national federation that provides advocacy, programs, and resources that help prevent mental health problems and illnesses, support recovery and resilience, and enable all New Brunswickers to flourish and thrive. 

Media Contact 

Canadian Mental Health Association of New Brunswick 
[email protected]