“On this International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, we condemn the actions of the criminal drug traffickers who prey on those suffering with the illness of addiction. Over the past decade, criminal entities across Canada have been increasing their capacity to produce and traffic deadly and dangerous drugs, leading to a tragic loss of life.

“The criminal actions of drug traffickers are abhorrent and will not be tolerated by Alberta’s government. We must have zero tolerance for the manufacturing, trafficking and dealing of these deadly and dangerous drugs.

“Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams (ALERT) was established to investigate, disrupt and dismantle organized crime groups importing, manufacturing and selling illicit drugs. With our government’s comprehensive approach, we are tackling the issue of illicit trafficking while also providing compassionate support for those suffering with addiction.”

Mike Ellis, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services

“As Alberta’s government, we recognize the devastating losses felt by families and communities as a result of addiction, drug abuse and illicit trafficking. The most recent drug fatality data confirms why addressing drug use and illicit trafficking must be top of mind, and my heart goes out to all those who have lost a loved one.

“Today is a reminder that we need to create a better Alberta for our children and grandchildren. Our vision for Alberta is one where families have an opportunity to live in healthy communities that are free of illicit drug use and trafficking. Our vision is one where those suffering with addiction have immediate access to treatment and the opportunity to pursue recovery.

“While we have made significant strides towards this vision over the past four years, it is clear more needs to be done to support treatment and recovery from addiction. That’s why Alberta’s government is moving quickly to build 11 new recovery communities, some of which are in direct partnership with First Nations, and expand access to a variety of no-fee addiction treatment programs for all Albertans.

“Together we will achieve our moral obligation to prevent suffering for our children, to help those suffering with addiction pursue recovery, and to hold criminals, who have caused so much harm in our communities, accountable.”

Dan Williams, Minister of Mental Health and Addiction