Compassionate intervention legislation for addictions treatment introduced by Sask. government

The Government of Saskatchewan introduced The Compassionate Intervention Act on Friday. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Heywood Yu)

The provincial government is moving forward with compassionate intervention legislation for addictions treatment.

The Compassionate Intervention Act, which would allow for involuntary addictions treatment, was introduced Friday by Saskatchewan’s provincial government. According to a media release, the legislation is to support individuals with severe addictions who are not capable of seeking help despite serious health and safety risks.

“Individuals struggling with addiction need our support on their path to recovery,” Mental Health and Addictions Minister Lori Carr said in the media release. “They need a safe space, support and compassionate intervention. We are focused on meaningful long-term recovery for Saskatchewan residents.”

The current legislation requires voluntary participation and does not support addiction intervention.

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The proposed legislation includes strict criteria for entering someone into involuntary treatment. Family members would be allowed to request treatment for a loved one through the court. Law enforcement could also intervene, should a person’s substance use be putting their own life or the lives of others at serious risk.

Methods in which individuals can be brought to a Compassionate Interventions Assessment Centre are:

• By a police or peace officer
• Referred by a medical professional
• Through a judge’s warrant

The Government of Saskatchewan will be seeking feedback from stakeholders, partners, and the public on how the legislation should be implemented. Information will be available on the Government of Saskatchewan website.