Alouette Addictions says government would allow too much fentanyl

Proposal to decriminalize 4.5 grams ‘crazy’ amount, says Korchinski

Article from www.mapleridgenews.com

Mo Korchinski says the province is proposing to decriminalize more fentanyl than could be for personal use.

Alouette Addictions worries the B.C. government is asking for decriminalization for possession of huge amounts of fentanyl.

The Maple Ridge agency called on the province to consult with people on the front lines of the opioid crisis before setting new policy.

“It’s crazy, the 4.5 grams of fentanyl,” said Mo Korchinski, adding that she doesn’t understand why fentanyl was included in the decriminalization proposal.

“That’s what’s killing people,” she said.

B.C. has seen 7,700 overdose deaths since 2016, and this year has been the deadliest yet. The toxic drug supply is killing 100 people in the province every month.

So the province has asked the federal government to decriminalize simple possession of street drugs, via an exemption from Health Canada. The limit would be set at 4.5 grams of methamphetamine, powder and crack cocaine and opioids including heroin and fentanyl.

Simple possession applies to drugs for personal use, and while 4.5 grams may be a reasonable amount for some hard drugs, Alouette Addictions said it’s way too much fentanyl.

Myths About the Overdose Crisis in B.C.

Article from www.stopoverdose.gov.bc.ca

More and more, the conversation about substance use is changing. For example, people are becoming more aware of using words and language that reduce stigma.

However, common myths still exist, including some about the overdose crisis – an ongoing public health emergency in B.C. Inaccurate information or beliefs about substance use and overdose can cause feelings of shame or blame for people who use drugs. People may try to hide their drug use from family and friends, use drugs alone, and avoid reaching out for help. Using drugs alone can increase the risk of a fatal drug overdose.

It’s important to talk with friends and family so that everyone can learn the facts and start thinking about substance use and overdose in new ways.

EVENT:

Youth & Cannabis Use: Landscape in Canada

The YMCA Youth Cannabis Awareness Program (YCAP) is pleased to invite you to  “Youth & Cannabis Use: Landscape in Canada” webinar.

• Wednesday, May 5 1:00-2:00 EST
• Wednesday, May 26 6:00-7:00 EST
• Wednesday, June 16 1:00-2:00EST

This free webinar extracts findings from recent Canadian national surveys and addresses FAQs such as:

• Do youth use cannabis in Canada?
• How youth’s cannabis use differ from adults’ demographics?
• How does cannabis use compare with use of other substances (i.e alcohol, tobacco) amongst youth in Canada?
• How has legalization of cannabis impacted youth in Canada?
• Does initiating use at a younger age increase the likelihood of developing problem cannabis use?
• What are potential harms of cannabis use during adolescence?
• And more

Providing balanced and evidence based information about the new cannabis landscape for youth, this webinar provides parents, adults and professionals involved in young people’s lives with resources supporting an open dialogue with youth, helping youth with their informed decision making process about cannabis use.