Freeland Says There is no Specific Timeline for Reversing BC Drug Decriminalization
Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland states that the federal government is collaborating with British Columbia on its opioid crisis. However, Freeland did not specify when Ottawa would reverse the province’s drug decriminalization policy.
“The province of B.C. requested a temporary pilot project. B.C. now has concerns about that project, which we share,” mentioned Ms. Freeland during the question period on May 2.
“We are currently working together to address those concerns. Opioid addiction has tragically impacted many Canadian families. It is imperative that we work in unison to find a solution, rather than exploiting the pain of Canadians for political gain.”
B.C. Premier David Eby recently urged Health Canada to adjust the 2023 order granting an exemption to federal drug laws, decriminalizing the possession of up to 2.5 grams of specific illegal substances such as heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine.
Mr. Eby requested the agency to reclassify the use of these drugs in public areas.
“While we are compassionate towards those battling addiction, we cannot tolerate street disorder that instills fear in communities,” declared Mr. Eby on April 26.
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This request occurred after numerous reports of drug use in public settings such as hospitals, bus stops, and parks throughout the province. Police, healthcare workers, and local politicians have criticized the policy, citing reduced public safety and minimal impact on drug abuse prevention.
Freeland informed Parliament that she had been in communication with Mr. Eby and assured him of shared concerns. She emphasized that urgent collaborative efforts are underway to address the issues. However, Freeland evaded Opposition House Leader Andrew Scheer’s question regarding the specific date when the pilot project would be reversed.
“We acknowledge their concerns and are collectively working towards supporting public health and safety,” responded Freeland. “What we will not do is exploit the suffering and death of Canadians for personal gain.”
Toronto’s Drug Policies
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has recently focused on B.C.’s drug policies. In an open letter to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on May 1, Poilievre urged the government to reverse its support for decriminalization in B.C. and reject Toronto’s request for drug decriminalization.
“If you permit Toronto to legalize hard drugs, similar to British Columbia, it will only lead to leaving the most vulnerable Canadians in a state of despair,” Poilievre stated in the letter.
Toronto initially requested in 2022 that Ottawa exempt all drugs for personal use within the city. In 2023, the request was updated to expand protection to young individuals from criminalization and eliminate possession caps, surpassing B.C.’s policy.
Toronto’s Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Eileen de Villa, stated on April 30 that the city would continue to focus on treatment investments. The proposal was developed with input from various stakeholders, including Toronto police and drug users.
Addictions Minister Ya’ara Saks mentioned during the question period that each Ottawa request would be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. She emphasized that Toronto Public Health’s proposal did not sufficiently address the joint goals of public health and safety in managing the opioid crisis.
“Every level of government, including the province, must engage in this process,” she added.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford criticized Toronto Public Health’s proposal during an April 29 press conference, denouncing decriminalization as a “nightmare.”
“We should focus on such initiatives instead of legalizing hard drugs. Permitting activities like cocaine, crack, and heroin is unacceptable,” he expressed.
