A call for better addiction services

As Mount Royal University students, we express our deep concern arising from our examination of drug policies in Canada. Our studies have illuminated the deficiencies in the current approach, particularly evident in Calgary where the absence of harm-reduction services and a hazardous drug supply have contributed to a staggering 21 per cent increase in deaths, totalling 1,104 in the first seven months of the year compared with the same period last year. This prompts us to urgently advocate for enhanced harm-reduction and drug treatment services as part of the ongoing healthcare reform in Alberta.

A glaring issue in Calgary is the scarcity of supervised consumption services, crucial for offering addicts a secure space to use drugs without the risk of poisoning. The city grapples with a perilous drug supply, leading to increased overdoses.

Calgary must address this crisis by expanding supervised consumption sites beyond the lone facility at the Sheldon M. Chumir Health Centre. While the current site provides a sterile environment and support services, the inherent risk lies in users bringing their own drugs from unreliable street sources. Without a safe supply and comprehensive harm-reduction services, addicts remain vulnerable to overdose and death.

Calgary must lead with compassion, prioritizing harm reduction to build a safer, healthier and more compassionate city. Our collective commitment to evidence-based policies, increased resources and community education can pave the way for a more secure future for all residents.

Aiden Gow, Temka Batdelger,

Zac Siudy, Brandon Ting

Mount Royal University