File photo (Image credit: CFJC Today).

By Aaron Schulze

Possession of Illicit Drugs

Ban of possession of illicit drugs near public spaces in B.C. coming into effect

Sep 14, 2023 | 11:22 AM

KAMLOOPS — The possession of illegal drugs will be prohibited in some public spaces in B.C.

In a news release issued Thursday (Sept. 14), the B.C. government says possession of illicit drugs within 15 metres of playgrounds, skate parks, spray parks and wading pools will be prohibited as of Monday, Sept. 18.

The province says it made a request to Health Canada for an amendment to its decriminalization policy to add the public spaces to existing prohibitions on possession, which includes the premises of kindergarten to Grade 12 schools and licensed child care facilities.

The province also says it completed consultations on public drug use with key stakeholders and is planning to introduce provincial legislation to further regulate public drug use this fall. It comes concurrently as Kamloops council voted to amend the city’s bylaw regarding the use of illicit drugs in public spaces.

“Everyone, especially children, should feel safe in their communities,” Ya’ara Saks, federal minister of mental health and addictions and associate minister of health, states. “This cannot be forgotten as we continue to work relentlessly to reduce substance use related harms. This amendment ensures that law enforcement has the tools needed to address public drug-use concerns, while continuing to provide support for some of the most vulnerable people in our community who use drugs.”

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With the amendment, the province says police officers in B.C. may enforce the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act when individuals are found to be in possession of illegal drugs in these child-focused spaces. Intoxication remains illegal in all public places.