The provincial government has initiated actions to enhance community safety by combatting illegal drug use and trafficking through the introduction of several new measures. On Tuesday, the province announced upcoming changes to legislation and regulations aimed at cracking down on drug trafficking, particularly focusing on fentanyl and methamphetamine abuse.
Under the new measures, law enforcement will receive increased authority to remove individuals using fentanyl or meth in semi-public spaces like libraries, malls, restaurants, parks, and business entrances. Additionally, police will have the power to charge these individuals with trespassing as deemed necessary.
Previously, property owners in Saskatoon had to provide a statement and testify in court to evict individuals engaged in illegal drug activities on their premises. However, with the new legislation, police will have the autonomy to take immediate action upon observing drug use in public spaces.
The province intends to amend the Trespass to Property Act to classify drug use and other disruptive behaviors as trespassing. Furthermore, drug-related paraphernalia such as needles and pipes will be considered weapons under the revised regulations.
In a press conference, Tim McLeod, the minister of justice and attorney general, disclosed that police will now have the authority to revoke various licenses, including driver’s licenses, business licenses, and hunting and fishing licenses, upon conviction of drug-related offenses.
Moreover, discussions are ongoing regarding the potential establishment of involuntary addiction treatment centers similar to those in neighboring Alberta. While these changes are met with anticipation, Prairie Harm Reduction has expressed deep concerns, opposing punitive measures that may further marginalize drug users.
The organization emphasized the importance of voluntary and evidence-based addiction treatment, expressing reservations about labeling sterile needles as weapons and advocating for policies that prioritize harm reduction and public safety. The government aims to implement these new measures promptly, with some being regulation changes for quicker implementation and others requiring amendments to legislation, which will take more time.
