The Ontario government is banning supervised drug consumption sites within 200 metres of schools and child care centres says a news release issued this afternoon.
The government is also mandating new protections to better protect community safety near remaining sites, including new requirements for safety and security plans, as well as new policies to discourage loitering and promote conflict de-escalation and community engagement.
"In order to restrict access to dangerous and illegal drugs moving forward, the government will also introduce legislation this fall that would prohibit municipalities or any organization from setting up new consumption sites or participating in federal so-called 'safer' supply initiatives," says the release.
If passed, the legislation will also prohibit municipalities from requesting the decriminalization of illegal drugs from the federal government.
Meanwhile, Northern Caucus members MPP Jamie West (Sudbury), France Gélinas (Nickel Belt), and released the following statements in response to the Conservative government's decision to close supports, including Consumption and Treatment Services (CTS), amidst an ongoing homelessness and addictions crisis:
"My Sudbury community stepped up and funded our local CTS 'The Spot' when the government wouldn't," said West. "Healthcare is a provincial responsibility, and the Premier refused to fund it. Now, Ford is removing a vital tool during an overdose epidemic—one we know saves lives. Ford had plenty of time to find a solution, but instead of addressing the real issue, he gave up on Ontarians—on our most vulnerable people— and the friends and family that love them. The blame will lie with the government.”
Official Opposition Health Critic France Gélinas (MPP Nickel Belt) reiterated the need for continued support:
"Not a single community in our province is asking the government to take away existing resources and programs. This government is cynically attacking health infrastructure, putting ideology over evidence. It's time to fund the treatments and support programs we need so we can stop the loss of life."
