The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Joedy Wall, Minister of Social Supports and Well-Being:

Speaker, I am pleased to rise and acknowledge March as Social Work Month.

In this House, we often hear about people facing challenges, whether it’s illness, financial struggles, or families who need extra support. In moments of crisis, social workers are often the ones who offer comfort, guidance and practical solutions.

One such social worker is Debbie Lavers‑O’Neill. Practicing for more than 30 years in focus areas such as child, youth and family services, community supports, and mental health services, colleagues describe Debbie as kind, knowledgeable, empathetic, and guided by integrity.

A young social worker once recalled accompanying Debbie on a home visit to a single mother of three. As they chatted, Debbie picked up a broom and swept the floor, a simple gesture that reassured the mother they were there to help, demonstrating the importance of human connection.

Throughout her career, Debbie earned her master of social work degree, continued to study independently, and strongly supported ongoing training for staff. For her outstanding service, she has been named a Pride in Profession Award recipient by the Newfoundland and Labrador College of Social Workers. I invite all members to join me in recognizing her achievements and the vital work of all social workers.