“Families and communities across Alberta continue to experience the harms associated with illegal drugs. Fentanyl, carfentanil and other deadly substances take lives, fuel addiction and leave lasting scars on families who have lost loved ones far too soon.

“On this International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, we recognize both the human cost and our shared responsibility to confront it. That’s why Alberta’s government is taking action on multiple fronts to protect Albertans.

“Through investments in police services and specialized enforcement teams, including ALERT and the Alberta Sheriffs Interdiction Patrol Team, we are equipping law enforcement with the tools needed to disrupt trafficking operations and remove dangerous drugs from our streets.

“Today, we honour the families who have lost loved ones, commend those working toward recovery and recognize the dedicated law enforcement officers, first responders and community partners who work every day to protect Albertans.”
Mike Ellis, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services 

“On International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, we recognize the ongoing challenges of addiction in Alberta and reaffirm our commitment to building a recovery-oriented system of care that supports Albertans at every stage of their recovery journey.

“Through the Alberta Recovery Model, we are increasing access to bed-based addiction treatment, expanding virtual access to addiction medicine care and building 11 world-class recovery communities across the province, five of which are open and supporting clients. We will continue to invest in treatment capacity and community-based supports throughout Alberta to support Albertans finding a path to recovery.

“We also want to recognize the many community and health partners who play a vital role in Alberta’s Recovery Model, including municipalities, Indigenous partners, law enforcement, first responders, community-based providers and thousands of health care professionals across Alberta.

“Together, we’re working to save lives and build stronger, healthier communities for generations to come.”

Rick Wilson, Minister of Mental Health and Addiction

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