Toronto: Mental Health and Addictions Minister Carolyn Bennett on Monday said she won’t be running in the next federal election.
Bennett, who was first elected in 1997, said serving her Toronto-St. Paul’s constituents has been the best job.
During an announcement, the minister said she has apprised the Prime Minister of the decision.
On the occasion, she said announced that the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health is getting $156 million from the federal government over three years to launch and operate a new three-digit suicide-prevention hotline.
Anyone in crisis will be able to dial 9-8-8 anywhere in the country to be connected with trained responders beginning at the end of November.
The 24-hour service is free and will be offered in English and French. — Canadian Press