Decriminalize hard drugs to reduce overdose deaths, some Canadian cities and provinces argue
Since January 2016, almost 25,000 people have died from opioid-related causes, according to the Public Health Agency of Canada, which compiles the data from all provinces except Quebec.
B.C.'s mental health and addictions minister, Sheila Malcolmson, said that is one of many steps the province is taking to “save lives in the toxic drug crisis.” “But if we have the health-care supports for people to turn to, they don't feel the shame and stigma about drug use. They're willing to talk to their primary health care provider,” which can in turn help people get treatment or prescribed a safe supply.Dr. Eileen de Villa, Toronto's medical officer of health, said she sees the city's request as a change in the approach to drug policy.
She said half the people who have drugs confiscated by police in the city right now are carrying less than the possession limits Vancouver wants to implement.
Canada Latest News, Canada Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Jurisdictions pushing to decriminalize small amounts of drugs as overdose deaths soar | Globalnews.caSome Canadian cities and provinces are trying to decriminalize possession of small amounts of drugs in their jurisdictions as thousands of people die of overdoses each year.
Read more »
How Amazon union leader Christian Smalls went from rapper to unlikely voice of protestAmazon union leader Christian Smalls went from rapper to unlikely voice of protest
Read more »
Two people walk away from small plane crash in west OttawaNo injuries have been reported after a small plane crashed in rural west Ottawa Saturday afternoon.
Read more »
'Extreme' supply chain snafus hit lumber industry, forcing output curbs as prices hover near recordCanfor shifts to four\u002Dday workweek after running out of room to pile boards being ordered at startling rate amid railcar shortage
Read more »
Judge dismisses lawsuit over amount of strawberries in Kellogg's Pop-Tarts\u0027A reasonable consumer is unlikely to purchase a toaster pastry coated in frosting exclusively for the nutritional value of strawberries in its fruit filling\u0027
Read more »