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Hundreds turn out for funeral of Regina MP who committed suicide



Published on July 4, 2009
Published on July 10, 2009
The Canadian Press ~ The News  RSS Feed
Topics :
REGINA , Moose Jaw

REGINA -

More than 600 people, including Prime Minister Stephen Harper, attended the funeral of former Regina MP Dave Batters.

Harper, along with a multitude of politicians, remembered Batters as someone who was well-liked and admired.

Batters's family said in a statement that he took his own life in his home in Regina on June 29.

Batters's battle with mental health issues became public last July when he announced he was taking medical leave for an undisclosed health issue.

In September, Batters said he would not seek re-election in the riding of Palliser, which encompasses Regina and Moose Jaw.

He cited anxiety, depression and a dependency on prescription drugs.

Comments

  • Username
    Robert G
    - September 22, 2009 at 18:05:27

    I see no redemption for thisman. He wasn't a very good MP. And he wasn't good for Moose Jaw. I think that anyone who reads their Bible knows where he is now. Nothing can help him.

    Submit a Comment

  • Username
    seymour
    - September 18, 2009 at 14:32:02

    Gee Reality Sucks, you're a pleasant sort aren't you.

    Submit a Comment

  • Username
    Dave's Law School Bud
    - September 18, 2009 at 13:55:17

    What a beautiful tribute to an amazing person and true friend.

    Smile upon us Dave!! You will be truly missed.

    Submit a Comment

  • Username
    Jimmy
    - September 18, 2009 at 13:19:01

    Reality Sucks has a point. If it were a homeless person or someone on welfare who was addicted and commited suicide, nobody would care besides friends and family.

    Submit a Comment

  • Username
    Reality
    - September 18, 2009 at 13:14:24

    Quick question; if it was a homeless person who was addicted to drugs and had mental issues who turned to suicide, would we be reading about it? I highly doubt it, and for those of you bleeding hearts, i have had more than my share of family tragedies to deal with.
    If someone doesn't want to be here, so be it, eventually they will succeed. What happens in nature if an animal has issues?? It is sorted out and the herd becomes stronger again. Remember people, we are all animals, no matter what organized religion has taught you..

    Submit a Comment

  • Username
    connie
    - September 18, 2009 at 13:06:26

    The fact that this tragedy was well publicized draws attention to the fact that there is a Mental Health Crisis in Canada and perhaps more so in Saskatchewan where there are fewer mental health services and resources.

    While it is true that many people don't have access to mental health services, this tragedy has brought to our attention the stigma that exists and the severe lack of quality mental health services in areas outside of Regina and Saskatoon.

    I urge everyone to read an excellent series of articles on Toronto Globe and Mail website. The series is BREAKDOWN: Canada's Mental Health Crisis. There are also recommendations to correct this crisis.

    Or Click onto Mental Health on the Globe and Mail website.

    Submit a Comment

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