How federal leaders plan to address B.C.s toxic drug crisis

Liberal Leader Mark Carney outlines his plan to combat B. C. 's toxic drug crisis as the federal election approaches, focusing on imposing harsher penalties for drug traffickers. He promises to recruit 2,000 additional RCMP and border security agents and invest $500 million in an emergency treatment fund to support initiatives like New Westminster’s crisis response pilot project. Carney emphasizes the need for a permanent youth mental health fund, aiming to provide care for 100,000 young people each year, citing the connection between mental health and addiction.

Notably absent from his remarks is a clear stance on overdose prevention sites, despite previous comments suggesting a review of their effectiveness. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has openly criticized these sites, proposing that they be labeled “drug dens” and requiring licenses from provincial governments to operate. Poilievre also pledges to create 50,000 treatment spaces offering comprehensive support, including detox and job placement services. Meanwhile, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh has voiced support for safe consumption sites, recognizing their importance in preventing overdoses. The differing approaches to the drug crisis highlight the varying strategies among federal leaders ahead of the election.