Getting drug users off our streets safely

Elmwood

On Oct. 2, the Manitoba NDP government introduced Bill 48, the Protective Detention and Care of Intoxicated Persons Act, to respond directly to today’s meth crisis.

Bill 48 extends protections to people under the influence of drugs, as well as alcohol. This means that Manitobans affected by meth, opioids, or other substances will have access to a system designed to meet their needs.

Meth-induced psychosis can last well beyond 24 hours. Without a safe place to recover, people in crisis too often end up harming themselves or others. To support recovering individuals, Bill 48 allows protective care centres to keep people for up to 72 hours. If a person remains intoxicated after 24 hours of their stay, they will be assessed by a medical professional, with follow-ups after 48 hours if necessary.

Bill 48 provides police and healthcare professionals with more options for support. As a result, Bill 48 will help alleviate the strain on emergency rooms and keep communities safe. The goal of Bill 48 is safety, dignity, and access to care. Once someone has stabilized, they will be connected to addiction services so they can begin a healthier path forward.

Our government is showing leadership by making sure intoxicated people are supported and are not criminalized for their illness.

Earlier this fall, I was pleased to join my provincial colleagues, the Hon. Mike Moyes, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, and Hon. Matt Wiebe, MLA for Concordia and Minister of Justice and Attorney General, at the Canada Greener Homes Affordability Program announcement on Sept. 12. The announcement was held right here in Elmwood at the Chalmers Neighbourhood Renewal Corporation at 180 Poplar Ave. This new initiative will offer free home energy efficiency upgrades for low- to median-income households. Manitoba is the first jurisdiction in the country to implement the program.

Feel free to contact me at 204-415-1122 or email me at Jim.Maloway@yourmanitoba.ca. Please take a moment as well to visit my web site at www.yourelmwood.com and fill out our surveys.