Home / Health / New Brunswick Funds Crucial Addiction Centre for Bilijk First Nation
New Brunswick Funds Crucial Addiction Centre for Bilijk First Nation
10 Sep
Summary
- A new addictions treatment centre is being built for Bilijk First Nation.
- The facility aims to address systemic issues and historical trauma.
- Construction is anticipated to be finalized by March 2027.
The Government of New Brunswick has announced funding for a new addiction treatment centre to be constructed for Bilijk First Nation. This initiative is designed to confront deeply rooted systemic issues within the community. Chief Justice Gruben emphasized the facility's significance in fostering healing, growth, and wellness for the community, also known as Kingsclear First Nation.
The existing community health clinic, the Bilijk Health Centre, currently supports 75 clients but requires expanded capacity to meet growing needs. Chief Gruben stated the new facility will offer structural solutions to problems historically created by the Indian Act. Funding contributions include $500,000 from the province's Regional Development Corporation and $800,000 from Health Canada.
The new centre intends to integrate recovery efforts with the community's cultural practices. Social Development Minister Cindy Miles acknowledged that for some, this support comes too late, honoring those lost while moving forward with purpose. Justice Minister Rob McKee highlighted the importance of a coordinated approach to community well-being.
Chief Gruben described addiction as a societal and systemic issue stemming from generations of abuse, historical injustice, and trauma. The project, initially planned as a smaller modular unit, was expanded into a full facility through additional funding and strategic adjustments, with construction set for completion by March 2027.
