Eby Vows to Provide Mandatory Care for Severe Addictions in BC before October Election

September 15, 2024 TruthUSA

British Columbia’s premier announces the province will open secure facilities to provide involuntary care under the Mental Health Act for individuals with severe addictions.

David Eby reveals that the first site, catering to individuals with mental illness and brain injuries, will debut in Maple Ridge on the Alouette Correctional Centre grounds “in the coming months,” with plans for expansion across the province.

A statement from the government indicates that the NDP will amend the law in the next legislative session to offer clarity and ensure that individuals, including young people, can and should receive care when they cannot seek it themselves.

The premier’s commitment comes ahead of the official launch of the provincial election campaign, and three months after appointing Dr. Daniel Vigo as B.C.’s first chief scientific advisor for psychiatry, toxic drugs, and concurrent disorders.

The government plans to release clarifications from Vigo on his views regarding how the Mental Health Act can be utilized to provide voluntary and involuntary care for individuals with disorders along with addiction.

Eby mentions that the province will establish a designated mental health unit within a B.C. correctional facility, starting with a 10-bed facility at the Surrey Pretrial Services Centre to offer prompt treatment for individuals with mental health and addiction challenges in custody.