The Registered Nurses Association of Ontario is calling for the continued operation of consumption services and associated harm reduction programs.
Below is the letter from
Dr. Doris Grinspun, RN, BScN, MSN, PhD, LLD(hon), Dr(hc), DHC, DHC, FAAN, FCAN, O.ONT.
Chief Executive Officer Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO)
The scale of Ontario’s toxic drug crisis is staggering. Across Ontario, an average of 10 people per day are dying from tainted drugs. In 2023 alone, over 3,800 people across Ontario died from the unregulated drug supply. Harm reduction programs such as SCS and safer supply save lives and open the door to treatment and recovery.
Premier Ford’s plan to close 10 supervised consumption sites (SCS) and withdraw critical health-care services will lead to preventable deaths.
While RNAO welcomes the government’s investment in 19 Homelessness and Addiction Recovery Treatment (HART) hubs, the investment fails to recognize the scale of Ontario’s toxic drug crisis. HART Hubs will also exclude important evidence-based health care responses – such as harm reduction services and even needle exchange programs.
The government has a responsibility to ensure the health and safety of all Ontarians. SCSs and CTSs reduce deaths, injuries, hospitalizations, emergency room visits and the incidence of HIV and hepatitis.
These sites keep people alive and provide a gateway to supportive services, including addiction treatment.
Please, download and sign this petition and also distribute it broadly amongst your colleagues, family, friends and neighbours – indeed, any resident of Ontario. The petition will be tabled in the legislature by supporting MPPs from all parties.
Provide signed original copies to your member of provincial parliament – or mail them to Ann-Marie Morris, coordinator of RNAO’s Policy Department, and we will ensure that your signed petitions are presented in Ontario’s legislature. RNAO’s mailing address is listed on the front of the petition.
Note: The Ontario legislature does not accept electronic petitions.
Thank you for taking political action as we continue to speak out for nurses and speak out for health.
Through this petition, your voice will be heard again at Queen’s Park.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
