Question Period Note: Overdose Crisis

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KEY MESSAGES
• The toxic drug and overdose crisis continues to be one of Canada’s most pressing public health challenges.
• The devastating impact of fentanyl and other synthetic opioids has touched every corner of our country and claimed over 50,000 lives.
• The Government of Canada is committed to using every available tool to save lives and protect the health and safety of Canadians.
• Guided by the Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy, the federal government is working with provinces and territories to expand access to life-saving services, including prevention, treatment and recovery, while also protecting Canadians from illegal drugs and drug-related crime.
IF PRESSED
Q1 : If pressed on federal funding for prescribed alternatives

A1 :
• From January 2018 until March 31, 2025, Health Canada funded 31 pilot projects to better understand the benefits, risks, and implementation challenges. The time limited funding ended as planned and the department currently has no plans to fund new prescribed alternatives projects.
• Prescribed alternatives services provide prescription drugs as an alternative to the toxic illegal drug supply to people who are already using illegal drugs and are at high risk of overdose.
• These services are delivered by regulated healthcare professionals under provincial and territorial jurisdiction.
Q2 : If pressed on involuntary treatment for substance use
A2 :
• People struggling with substance use need services that are accessible when people and families need them.
• They deserve access to evidence-based care.
• We are committed to working with provinces and territories to help expand access to evidence-based treatment and recovery programs.
• We are investing nearly $200 billion to support the health of Canadians, including $25 billion to support provinces and territories in delivering on shared health priorities, such as mental health and substance use.
Q3 : If pressed on the priorities of the Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy (CDSS)
A3 :
• The Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy guides Canada’s comprehensive response to the overdose crisis and prioritizes public health and safety in addressing substance use harms.
• The Government of Canada is taking action to monitor and disrupt the flow of illegal drugs and precursor chemicals, while also working with provinces and territories to ensure access to the full continuum of health supports, including prevention, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery services.
• Together, these efforts reflect a comprehensive, compassionate, and evidence-driven response to substance use harms in Canada.

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KEY STATS
· Most recent national data indicates that 52,544 apparent opioid toxicity deaths occurred between 2016 and 2024.
· National opioid toxicity deaths in 2024 are 17% lower than in 2023.
· Toxicity of the illegal drug supply continues to be a major driver of the crisis with 74% of apparent opioid toxicity deaths in 2024 involving fentanyl.