North Battleford to home Sask.’s first involuntary addictions assessment centre

Battlefords RCMP detachment commander Insp. Ryan How said police welcome “any tools that may allow RCMP to assist people to receive the appropriate care from the proper agency.”

How said that frontline officers routinely deal with people suffering from severe addictions and other complex needs.

“Very frequently police resources are dedicated to responding to people suffering a medical crisis which results in delays in response times when citizens need police and overall decreased police visibility,” How said.

“We assess each situation independently and make decisions based on the circumstances as to which legislation is most appropriate to apply to ensure a person suffering from a complex needs situation is provided access to the relevant professional.”

Under the legislation, family members can apply through the courts for an assessment warrant for a loved one. Police and peace officers may also intervene if someone’s substance use threatens their own safety or that of others.

According to the province, people can only be brought to the facility by police or peace officers, through a judge’s warrant or by referral from a prescribed medical professional. Those subject to assessment or care will have access to free legal representation.

Once someone regains capacity, involuntary treatment will end and the person may continue receiving support voluntarily through ongoing care and services.

The City of North Battleford said it welcomes recent provincial investments supporting individuals experiencing substance use disorders, including a proposed complex needs facility that could open in the city next winter.

“We hope that these initiatives will lead to meaningful benefits with positive outcomes for individuals and their families as a range of treatment options becomes accessible within our community,” the city stated.

Mental Health and Addictions Minister Lori Carr said “not everyone has the capacity to make the decision to enter treatment on their own because of the extreme state of their addiction.”

“Compassionate intervention promotes meaningful long-term outcomes to help stabilize those individuals and support them in recovery.”

Justice Minister Tim McLeod said the legislation targets “the most extreme cases of addiction.”

“We are proud to get this legislation across the finish line and provide families with a new way to get help for their loved ones that are unable to make the decision to pursue recovery.”

The province said about 150 stakeholders from multiple sectors participated in information sessions and provided feedback on the legislation. The Ministry of Health said consultations will continue as implementation progresses.

The Act is expected to come into force this fall once regulations are finalized.

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cjnbnews@pattisonmedia.com

by Kenneth Cheung

North Battleford to home Sask.’s first involuntary addictions assessment centre

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