OTTAWA – MPs are calling for new research centre devoted to the mental health of first responders and other public safety officers.
In a report tabled today, a House of Commons committee says estimates indicate that between 10 and 35 per cent of first responders – from paramedics to prison guards – will develop post-traumatic stress disorder.
The committee urges creation of a Canadian Institute for Public Safety Officer Health Research.
READ MORE: Ombudsman maps transition system for ill, injured Canadian Forces soldiers
It would collect data, devise a research strategy and generally recognize the particular challenges public safety officers face in their work.
The MPs say the institute should be modelled on an existing one for military members and veterans, but operate separately.
The committee wants the new institute to work with Statistics Canada on a national mental health prevalence survey to gauge effects including repetitive trauma exposure.
- Suspect in killing of temple leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar got student visa in ‘days’
- Cruise ship worker arrested, accused of stabbing 3 people with scissors
- Canadian-Israeli citizen dead in Egypt, local authorities say probe is open
- RFK Jr. said worm ate part of his brain, died inside his head: 2012 deposition
Comments