B.C. govt to share update on involuntary care

B. C. government officials will announce updates on involuntary care Monday, emphasizing improved access to treatment. Premier David Eby and Health Minister Josie Osborne will address the media in Victoria at noon. In April, the province opened 10 involuntary treatment beds within a pretrial facility for men struggling with serious mental health and addiction issues.

In September, Eby revealed plans for 100 additional beds in new facilities in Surrey and Prince George, aligning with efforts to reduce crime. He stated that crime in B. C. has decreased by 11 percent, yet acknowledged the importance of community safety. The initiative seeks to provide necessary mental health support while addressing public safety concerns.

This response reflects a growing recognition of the intersection between mental health, addiction, and crime. The announcement is part of a broader strategy to enhance the province's health care framework.