Funding will support education, harm reduction, treatment and research
April 24, 2019 – Vancouver, B.C. – Health Canada
The opioid crisis continues to be one of the most serious public health issues in Canada’s recent history. Tragically, between January 2016 and September 2018 more than 10,300 Canadians died from an apparent opioid-related overdose.
Today the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Health, announced funding for new initiatives to increase knowledge about opioid use and treatment, decrease harms associated with opioid use, and enhance access to evidence-based treatment. Minister Petitpas Taylor made the announcement while meeting with representatives of the St. Paul’s Foundation of Vancouver.
New investments totaling $15.3 million announced today include:
The funding announced today builds on recent investments to increase access to treatment services for Canadians who are seeking help for problematic substance use. In September 2018, the governments of Canada and British Columbia signed a bilateral agreement under the Government of Canada’s Emergency Treatment Fund committing more than $71.7 million for innovative and comprehensive treatment options in the province.
Quotes
“This crisis continues to be one of the most serious public health issues in Canada’s recent history, and organizations on the ground can help us turn the tide of it. That’s why we are investing further in them. We know there is no silver bullet solution to this crisis, and the services and education these organizations offer are crucial. We must continue to work all together to save lives.”
The Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor
Minister of Health
“St. Paul’s Hospital happens to sit at the epicentre of the opioid crisis in Vancouver, which has given us both a unique perspective and a profound responsibility. We know that research, outreach, and education will significantly reduce harm, yield financial savings and, most importantly, improve and save the lives of individuals, families, and communities affected by substance use across Canada.”
Dick Vollet
President and CEO, St. Paul’s Foundation
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Thierry Bélair
Office of Ginette Petitpas Taylor
Minister of Health
613-957-0200
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Health Canada
613-957-2983
hc.media.sc@canada.ca
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