Controversy erupts after Edmonton workers stop handing out syringes, pipes near transit
CTV
In an attempt to reduce open drug use in public places, city harm-reduction contractors are no longer giving syringes and pipes to people in pedways or near transit centres – a change attracting mixed reaction.
In an attempt to reduce open drug use in public places, city harm-reduction contractors are no longer giving syringes and pipes to people in pedways or near transit centres – a change attracting mixed reaction.
The "clarified approach" took effect Feb. 1 because of safety concerns, a city official in charge of the program said in a statement to CTV News Edmonton.
"We anticipate this clarification will prevent negative interactions between those working in transit spaces and those turning to transit spaces to consume drugs," said bus operations director Ryan Birch.
"The Opioid Response Team continues to hand out food, naloxone and educational supplies on transit property."
The mayor applauded the change, saying the harm-reduction strategy was actually increasing risks for passengers and transit workers.
"We were seeing that people were consuming and using [the drug paraphernalia] on transit facilities, which is not the right place to do so," Amarjeet Sohi said.
"I think what we need is more supervised [injection site] locations, more properly managed locations."
