Mental health court lauded

An article published in yesterday's edition of The Chronicle Herald:

Conference today on system’s benefits

By John McPhee, Health Reporter

Much more needs to be done to support the mentally ill in Nova Scotia, but the creation of a mental health court is a good start, advocates say.

The Schizophrenia Society of Nova Scotia will hold a conference today in Halifax to highlight the benefits of the court, which the province announced this summer.

"I think it’s only a logical step," said Stephen Ayer, executive director of the society, in an interview. "The idea is to get the person to the point where they can reintegrate themselves into society with a treatment plan. But the person has to accept responsibility for their crime."

Other provinces, including New Brunswick, have had mental health courts for years. The society has pushed for one in Nova Scotia for a long time, Mr. Ayer said. He’s not sure why it took so long for the province to move on the issue.

"Some would argue it’s not necessary, that it’s (the responsibility) of mental health services," he said. "But who’s going to start the process — Health or Justice? Health is dragging its feet and has been for years on the treatment of the mentally ill. Somebody has to start somewhere."

Judge Alfred Brien will speak about the success of the N.B. mental health court system at the conference, which will start at 8 a.m. at 12 Wing Shearwater. Other speakers will include Judith McPhee, of Nova Scotia’s Justice Department, who will explain the province’s plans.

The once-a-week sitting at the Halifax court will not hold trials, but rather will serve as a setting where the court can work out alternatives to jail sentences and set up treatment programs.

Under the system, which begins Nov. 2, provincial court Judge Bill MacDonald will take cases recommended by a mental health court team.

Mr. Ayer said the court’s success hinges on the province improving other supports for the mentally ill in society, such as housing and employment programs.

"That’s where we’re challenged," he said. "I’m going to be interested in hearing the answers on that."

More information on the conference can be found at www.ssns.ca.