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Attawapiskat Grand Chief, Bruce Shisheesh is revealing startling youth suicide attempt and overdose numbers from the past month.He says 46 young people have tried to take their own live between April 1st and April 24th.

The reserve has been under a state of emergency since April 8th, when 11 youths attempted suicide over the course of one weekend and 28 in March.  Timmins-James Bay MP, Charlie Angus says these new numbers are a nightmare.

“I’m hearing on the ground some people are feeling we’re starting to stabilize the situation and I’m hoping that can continue.  These are deeply rooted issues with the young people and it’s going to take work.  There’s a lot of people coming forward, a lot of good will out there, and really good ideas on how we can start to turn things around in the long term.”

Last week the Liberal government promised $2 million for more youth programming and a new youth centre, Angus says it look like  there might be traction on this soon.

“We’re pushing to get this programming in place. We’re talking to interesting organizations who can help and the youth in the community are really taking charge. I’m hoping to make new, positive announcements in the coming weeks.”

Angus added, mental health workers are still on the scene working with the youth everyday hoping to turn the tide.