N.S. premier commits $34 million to mental health services, clinicians

Premier Stephen McNeil says a Liberal government would commit $34 million over four years to improve access to mental health services in Nova Scotia. (Photo: Stephen McNeil/Facebook)

HALIFAX — Premier Stephen McNeil says a Liberal government would commit $34 million over four years to improve access to mental health services in Nova Scotia.

McNeil says 35 new mental health clinicians will be hired as part of the plan to work in collaborative health centres.

They will be added to the 51 mental health clinicians to be hired through the expansion of the SchoolsPlus program announced in the proposed budget last month.

The Liberals say if returned to power on May 30, they will also create a central intake system to ensure patients get the type of care they need.

The plan would also provide $2 million over two years to pilot four youth health centres in Nova Scotia schools.

McNeil was focusing his campaign in the Halifax area today along with NDP Leader Gary Burrill, while Progressive Conservative Leader Jamie Baillie planned to head outside the city to the Annapolis Valley.