The Minister of Children. Seniors and Social Development says there has been plenty of consultation surrounding the proposed development of a $40 million dollar homeless shelter for Happy Valley-Goose Bay, but agrees more programs surrounding addictions treatment are needed in the region.

John Abbott was responding to concerns raised by Simeon Tshakapesh who argues that a shelter may not be the way to go to address people travelling to Goose Bay to live and drink in the woods surrounding the town.

There have been tragedies involving members of the transient population who have died in the elements, leading to greater calls for emergency shelters, but Tshakepesh argues there needs to be a greater emphasis on treatment.

Abbott met with Tshakapesh during a recent visit to Labrador.

He says part of the new facility will include some treatment programs, but they’re also looking at a separate detox facility for the area, and discussions are currently underway.