Local advocates don’t believe toxic drug report goes far enough

Nov 2, 2022 | 4:07 PM

KAMLOOPS — “I’m glad to see that there is more energy going into addiction services because that would have helped Aaron,” said Troylana Manson.

The report, entitled Closing Gaps, Reducing Barriers and Expanding the Response to the Toxic Drug and Overdose Crisis, makes 37 recommendations. For Manson, who lost her son Aaron in 2021, the report falls short of addressing the full issue.

“Regulating a safe supply of all drugs. I was hoping it would be looking at policies and regulating. Even if it’s provincial and then allow the federal government to respond to that and then we can adjust,” said Manson.

Manson stated that the bulk of the recommendations will help, but only for those who are seeking treatment. She wanted to see more effort put towards who she calls the other 80 per cent.

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“When you go through the whole report, it takes a look at the treatment mostly, which is less than 20 per cent of your population,” said Manson. “What about the other 80 per cent who are using drugs recreationally or experimentally — or certainly non-problematic use?”

Manson noted the reports speaks to the committee hearing from experts on the importance of a regulated safe supply of drugs, yet the recommendations only look at prescribed supply.

“If you really were following evidence-based information, the number 1 thing you would be doing is regulating all drugs to stop the toxic supply… and number 2, to stop the overdoses, both fatal and non-fatal,” added Manson.

The Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions did not make anyone available for comment ahead of deadline Wednesday.

by Michael Reeve

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Local advocates don’t believe toxic drug report goes far enough

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