Manitoba watchdog concerned about growing trend of youth suicide

WINNIPEG — Manitoba’s children’s advocate is expressing concern over a growing trend in youth suicides.

Darlene MacDonald said some of the children were in government care and she’s concerned that some may feel despondent if they are frequently moved between foster homes.

MacDonald also told a legislature committee that more suicides by young people are being carried out by hanging as opposed to drug overdoses or other methods.

She says at least those methods offer a chance to save someone, but hanging is, in her words, “very final.”

Family Services Minister Kerri Irvin-Ross says the government is working on the issue, including bring in customary care, which allows First Nations children to stay in their home community.