Drug decriminalization is a controversial topic that has been rejected by the Progressive-Conservative government in Ontario, according to Premier Doug Ford. Ford stated that drug decriminalization is an “absolute nightmare” and will not happen under his leadership, pointing to British Columbia’s recent decision to recriminalize drug use in public places as an example. The pilot project in British Columbia began in January 2023 but was reversed this spring due to concerns about public safety and an increase in overdose deaths. The chief coroner reported a record high of at least 2,511 overdose deaths in 2023, the first year of decriminalization.
B.C. Premier David Eby emphasized that addiction is a health issue, not a criminal law issue, and that the decriminalization project was based on compassion for those struggling with addiction. However, he also stressed the importance of safety in public spaces, such as hospitals, restaurants, and parks. Ford praised Eby for reversing the decision to decriminalize drugs and thanked Ottawa for rejecting Toronto’s proposal to decriminalize the possession of small quantities of drugs for personal use. Ford advocated for more detox and rehabilitation centers but opposed allowing drug use in neighborhoods like Etobicoke and Mississauga.
Federal Addictions Minister Ya’ara Saks expressed deep concerns about Toronto’s decriminalization proposal, citing a lack of age restrictions and limits on the amount of drugs a person could possess. She ultimately refused the pitch after Toronto failed to address these concerns raised by department officials. Ontario did not support Toronto’s decriminalization application and warned Toronto Public Health to drop it. Ford also wrote a letter to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau requesting a stop to the approval of new sites supplying safe opioids and a review of existing Health Canada-approved sites across the country.
The rejection of drug decriminalization in Toronto reflects a larger national debate on the issue. Ford’s strong opposition to decriminalization aligns with his government’s focus on public safety and the prevention of drug use in communities. The concerns raised by Ottawa and Toronto officials highlight the complexity of implementing decriminalization policies while ensuring public health and safety. Moving forward, the debate on drug decriminalization will continue to be a contentious issue in Ontario and across Canada.
