“International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking reminds us of the devastating impact of the illegal drug trade and drug addiction on our society. The traffickers and dealers peddling deadly fentanyl and other narcotics to our most vulnerable are perpetrating suffering for thousands of Albertans.
“We won’t stand idly and let these problems persist. Albertans expect us to act and that’s exactly what our government is doing. We remain steadfast in our commitment to do whatever it takes to disrupt criminal networks, pursue the ill-gotten profits of drug traffickers and save lives.
“Advancing this commitment means working closely with our municipal and community partners throughout the province to connect those in need with life-saving wraparound services, while also ensuring police services and specialized law enforcement, such as our Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams (ALERT) and the Alberta Sheriffs Interdiction Patrol Team, have the support and resources needed to stop the trafficking of illegal drugs.
“On this International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, let us reaffirm our collective commitment to combat the devastating impact of drug abuse and trafficking, recognizing that through united efforts, community support, and steadfast enforcement, we can create a safer, healthier Alberta where every individual is protected and given the opportunity to thrive.”
“The disease of addiction continues to affect individuals, families and communities across Alberta. On this International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, we remember those we’ve lost, we support those still struggling, and we commit ourselves to building a province where recovery is possible for everyone.
“Alberta’s government is leading the way with a recovery-oriented system of care that provides access to a full continuum of mental health and addiction services and supports. From prevention and intervention to treatment and recovery, we are meeting people where they are and supporting them through every step of the way.
“We have made significant investments to increase treatment capacity, including adding more than 10,000 publicly funded addiction treatment spaces, expanding the Virtual Opioid Dependency Program, and building 11 world-class recovery communities across the province, three of which are open and supporting clients.
“In addition, the recently passed Compassionate Intervention Act, a made-in-Alberta model, will allow adult family members, guardians, healthcare professionals, police or peace officers to request a treatment order for those whose addiction or substance use has made them a danger to themselves or others.
“The ultimate goal is to help people reclaim their lives and achieve better health and wellness. Our approach is grounded in the belief that every individual deserves the opportunity to pursue recovery, and we will continue to invest in the people, programs, and partnerships that make recovery accessible to all Albertans when and where they need it.”
Related information
- 211 Alberta
- Virtual Opioid Dependency Program
- Counselling Alberta
- Alberta Recovery Model
- Compassionate intervention