Consultations to determine the location of a planned supervised consumption site in Manitoba are set to begin, as announced by the provincial government on Tuesday.
The site, which will provide a safe and supervised space for individuals to consume drugs, is part of the government’s efforts to address the ongoing opioid crisis in the province.
According to Health Minister Heather Stefanson, the consultations will involve community members, local businesses, and other stakeholders to gather their input and concerns regarding the potential location of the site.
“We want to ensure that the site is placed in a location that is both safe and appropriate for the community,” Stefanson said in a statement.
The government has also stated that the site will not be located near schools, parks, or residential areas.
The consultations will be conducted by the Addictions Foundation of Manitoba (AFM), an organization that specializes in addiction treatment and prevention.
AFM CEO, Dr. Gwen Caldwell, emphasized the importance of community involvement in the decision-making process.
“We want to hear from the community and address any concerns they may have. This is a collaborative effort and we want to ensure that the site is beneficial for both the individuals using it and the surrounding community,” Caldwell said.
The government has also assured that the site will have trained staff on-site to provide support and resources for individuals seeking help with their addiction.
The consultations are expected to take place over the next few months, with the goal of having the site up and running by the end of the year.
The opioid crisis has been a pressing issue in Manitoba, with the province recording 372 opioid-related deaths in 2020, a 87% increase from the previous year.
The government hopes that the supervised consumption site will not only provide a safe space for individuals to consume drugs, but also connect them with resources and support to help them on their journey to recovery.
The location of the site will be determined based on the feedback and input gathered from the consultations, with the ultimate goal of addressing the opioid crisis and saving lives in Manitoba.
