Putting care and safety first

Concordia

Every day I hear from families, front-line workers, and community leaders in Concordia who are worried about the effects of meth and addiction on our streets, in our neighbourhoods, and in our health-care system. They’re clear about what’s needed — real action, rooted in care, safety, and recovery. That’s exactly what our NDP government is delivering.

That’s why we pushed to pass Bill 48 — a compassionate and forward-thinking law that gives Manitoba a new way to respond when someone is in a state of severe drug intoxication or meth psychosis. For the first time, we’ll have the ability to bring people in crisis to a space where they can sober up and get the help they need. Instead of punishment, we’re making sure people get the protection and support they need to choose a healthier path away from addictions and toward a better future.

We are now moving forward with a detox facility at 190 Disraeli Fwy., staffed by health professionals who understand addiction and trauma. Instead of ending up in jail cells or emergency rooms, people will have access to care, monitoring, and a path toward recovery.

Bill 48 is part of a broader commitment to supporting mental health and addiction treatment across the province. Our government is increasing treatment capacity, expanding community-based supports, and strengthening partnerships with Indigenous organizations, health-care providers, and local leaders.

In addition to this, we are giving police more tools to hold traffickers accountable and keep dangerous drugs out of our communities. Our government is working with the Winnipeg Police and RCMP to carry out a targeted meth sweep focused on those producing and distributing meth. At the same time, a dedicated task force will report directly on drug enforcement to keep our communities safe.

We know how complex this challenge is, but we also know that progress is possible when we meet it with compassion, evidence, and determination. Our approach is balanced, responsible, and focused on saving lives.

Every Manitoban deserves safety. Every family deserves hope. And every person struggling with addiction deserves the chance to heal. That is the work we are committed to — today, and every day ahead.

I remain committed to staying connected to our community — listening to health-care experts, learning from frontline workers, and working every day to help Manitobans break free from addiction so they can build safer, healthier lives

As MLA for Concordia, I always want to hear what’s on your mind. You can reach my office at 106-1111 Munroe Avenue, and contact me at matt.wiebe@yourmanitoba.ca, or 204-654-1857.