Trend of Closing Drug Sites Near Schools in Ontario Reflects National Pattern
The Ontario government’s recent ban on supervised drug consumption sites near schools and child care centers is part of a broader shift away from the national harm reduction approach to drug addiction across Canada.
The advocacy for a safer supply of opioids and the decriminalization of hard drugs, known as harm reduction, was prevalent in addiction policy until recently. However, policymakers have now turned their focus towards treatment and rehabilitation in response to public dissatisfaction.
Critics of the harm reduction policy highlight increases in crime, drug overdose deaths, and illegal drug distribution following the implementation of supervised drug sites and safer supply programs.
Harm Reduction
The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) describes harm reduction as a pragmatic and practical philosophy focused on minimizing the risks associated with illegal drug use, rather than solely treating addiction.
Harm reduction strategies involve various services like supervised consumption sites, supply distribution, drug checking, and safer supply programs. Safer supply programs, for example, provide prescribed drugs to individuals at high risk of overdose to discourage purchasing illegal substances.
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Safer supply programs are part of an evidence-based, client-centered approach, aiming to assist those at risk of overdose. However, traditionalists argue that there are no truly safe drugs, even within safer supply programs.
A man with a sign on his hoodie takes part in a pro-safer supply demonstration in Vancouver on Nov. 3, 2023.
The Canadian Press/Ethan Cairns
The key debate lies between those advocating for harm reduction approaches and those favoring traditional methods for addiction management. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre have voiced criticisms of safe supply drugs, emphasizing the importance of prevention and substance abuse programs.
