Feds focused on ‘streamlining’ programs, says health minister after budget fails to provide new money for mental health or substance use

Health Minister Marjorie Michel says that funds remain available through existing bilateral agreements and the Emergency Treatment Fund.

Health Minister Marjorie Michel at an announcement in Ottawa on Oct. 2, 2025. "We are focusing on streamlining some programs,” said Michel about the absence of new mental health and addictions support program money in the budget. “But, if you look, we protected health care [through the] transfers.”The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

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BY TESSIE SANCI

November 10, 2025

While there was no new money for mental health or substance use support programs announced in the 2025 federal budget last week, Health Minister Marjorie Michel defended the decision saying that funds remain available through existing bilateral agreements.

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