What a Winnipeg drug treatment court means for the fight against drugs
Global News
Funding for a program administered by a local drug treatment court in Winnipeg is being touted as a step towards combatting drug addiction and crime.
For nearly two decades, a drug treatment court in Winnipeg has offered a way out of the cycle of drug abuse. Now. in a bid to support the court and its programs, the province and Justice Canada have signed a joint-five-year funding agreement.
This would enable millions of dollars to be used to accommodate an increase of participants over the years — about 20 to 30 more annually, while opening the doors to enhanced drug screening, counselling, treatment services, and case management.
The court, according to the Manitoba government, offers an alternative sentencing model when dealing with criminal offences related to substance abuse. Treatment and intervention are offered to offenders, along with a 12-to-18-month program for recovery.
In a press release on Aug. 3, the province noted that the court adopts a collaborative approach with its treatment program, with justice, treatment agencies and community partners working together to create an environment conducive to recovery and rehabilitation.
“The drug treatment court has proven to be a vital tool in our ongoing efforts to combat drug addiction and its associated criminal behaviours,” said justice minister Kelvin Goertzen, in the press release. “This funding allows us to significantly enhance our existing programs, provide essential support services, and potentially expand our reach to help more Manitobans, especially in the northern regions.”
Amanda Forest, an outreach worker with St. Boniface Street Links, said funding initiatives like this are good investments. She added that just relying on jails and incarcerating offenders does not fix anything, and rather puts them in a position where they are likely to recommit a crime if and when released.
As someone who’s been through the court program, Forest noted that it’s helped her.
“This is the longest I’ve been clean in 30 years. It’s a really strict program,” said Forest. “They keep you there until they’re convinced that you’re going to go to the next level, and they call you out when they know you’re not being honest.
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