Image: B.C. Premier David Eby / File / Canadian Press

By Fraser Valley Today Staff

Public Safety

B.C. introduces measures to halt illicit drug use in public spaces

Apr 26, 2024 | 1:19 PM

VANCOUVER — British Columbia is introducing measures to make illicit drug use illegal in all public spaces, including hospitals, on transit and in parks. In a news conference Friday (Apr. 26) Premier David Eby said the importance of public safety while ensuring access to treatment for those struggling with addiction, is important for his government.

“Keeping people safe is our highest priority,” said Premier David Eby in a government news release. “While we are caring and compassionate for those struggling with addiction, we do not accept street disorder that makes communities feel unsafe.”

In collaboration with the federal government, the Province and the federal government is seeking to amend the legality of possessing drugs in B.C., granting police the authority to enforce against drug use in public areas. The government says the move is expected to empower law enforcement to maintain safe communities while expanding treatment options for individuals battling addiction.

Under the proposed changes, police will have the discretion to compel individuals engaged in illegal drug use to vacate the area, seize drugs when necessary, or make arrests as warranted. However, the focus will remain on arresting for simple possession only in exceptional circumstances.

Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, Mike Farnworth, says the multifaceted approach will address the challenges faced by communities, while including the targeting of organized crime involved in drug trafficking. He expects the result will improve the issue of public drug use and disorder.

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Furthermore, the government plans to enhance safety and security in hospitals by implementing a comprehensive policy prohibiting street-drug possession or use. This includes bolstered enforcement measures and increased support for patients with addiction issues, ensuring they receive personalized care alongside medical treatment.

Minister of Health, Adrian Dix, said the action plan to improve support for patients with addiction challenges within hospital settings, will benefit from consistent enforcement and enhance patient care. “Today, we are taking immediate action to make hospitals safer and ensuring policies are consistent and strictly enforced through additional security, public communication and staff supports,” said Dix in a government news release.

Additionally, the Province plans to expand access to treatment for individuals grappling with addiction, particularly those at high risk of overdose. Initiatives include increasing the availability of opioid treatment and integrating addiction services with healthcare and housing support.

“Addiction is a health-care issue, not a criminal one, and we’re going to keep doing everything we can to save lives and connect people to treatment,” said Mental Health and Addictions minister, Jennifer Whiteside,.

The government’s commitment extends to investing $25 million to support and expand the Hope to Health Research and Innovation Centre in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. Led by Dr. Julio Montaner, the centre provides intensive primary care and support to individuals with complex medical and psychosocial needs, with potential expansion to other communities in B.C.