Brandon’s Maureen Stitt appointed to Manitoba’s Mental Health Review Board

Source: Province of Manitoba News Release

Twelve new members have been appointed to Manitoba’s Mental Health Review Board, Health, Seniors and Active Living Minister Cameron Friesen announced today.

“By providing oversight for decisions relating to the admission and treatment of psychiatric patients, the Mental Health Review Board performs a valuable service for Manitoba’s health-care system,” said Friesen.  “Our government congratulates the new members on their appointments and have faith they will excel in their new roles.”

The review board hears applications regarding decisions about specific aspects of the admission and treatment of patients in a designated psychiatric facility.

There are 27 members of the board, which is broken down to include eight lawyers, 11 psychiatrists and eight public members.  A quorum for a review board hearing, which under The Mental Health Act must begin within 21 days of an application being received, includes a lawyer to chair the hearing, as well as a psychiatrist and a public member.

Today’s appointments include six lawyers and six public members.  Lawyers appointed are Norm Sims (QC) of Minnedosa and five Winnipeg attorneys:  Krista Boryskavich, Ceci Kaufman (QC), Christopher Kozier, Robert Olson and Kyle Mirecki.

New public members to the board are Aline Nostedt and Pamela McCallum Beazley of Winnipeg, as well as Brandon’s Maureen Stitt, Sharon Bissonnette of Dugald, Steinbach resident Candice Cancade and Treena Ross of Fraserwood.

The new appointees were appointed to two- and three-year terms.  The start dates and terms for the appointments have been staggered to allow for the uninterrupted continuation of the board’sday-to-day operations, Friesen said.

The minister thanked outgoing board members for their service and dedication.