The NDP government is moving on interim measures to address Manitoba’s toxic drug crisis while plans are worked on for a permanent supervised consumption site, the Free Press has learned.
The province is purchasing two drug testing machines called mass spectrometers. The machines determine the components of illicit drugs. One will reside in a Winnipeg Regional Health Authority building in downtown Winnipeg and the other will be accessible at a community-based organization downtown, a spokesperson for addictions minister Bernadette Smith said.
The spokesperson also confirmed the province is negotiating a funding deal with drop-in and resource centre Sunshine House to assist with running their mobile overdose prevention site, an RV that provides people a space to use illicit substances under supervision.
A mobile mass spectrometer, which can determine the components of illicit drugs. (Mike Deal / Free Press files)
This comes as the province is holding consultations regarding the creation of Manitoba’s first supervised consumption site, to be located in downtown Winnipeg. Smith has said she wants the site to serve as more than a space for people to use drugs, knowing they will be revived if they overdose. She wants access to primary care, housing supports and services to help people get on employment income assistance.
The supervised consumption site is expected to open next year.
fpcity@freepress.mb.ca