40.3 accidental drug poisoning deaths recorded per 100,000 population as decriminalization debate continues
New figures confirm B.C.'s status as the epicentre of Canada's opioid crisis as debate continues about the future of its decriminalization trial.
Osborne was referring to more recent figures tracked by the B.C. Coroners Service that show a declining trend compared to 2023. As of Sept. 30, 1,749 British Columbians had died of unregulated drugs, by far the leading cause of unnatural death in B.C. "At the same time, we are taking action to expand treatment, recovery and crisis supports so everyone can receive timely, compassionate care without stigma or barriers," she said. "Together, we must take bold, compassionate action to ensure that everyone has access to the care they need to survive and move toward recovery," she said.
The debate took another turn last month when the British Columbia Association of Chiefs of Police issued a statement that while it "recognizes that tackling the complex issue of substance use requires a comprehensive, health-led approach that prioritizes diversion" from the criminal justice system, recent developments have prompted a re-evaluation.
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