Timmins council debates merits, impact of safe consumption site in the city
Timmins’ temporary safe consumption site is set to close at the end of the month and this week, city council debated its importance in tackling the city’s addiction issues.
Some councillors suggested there has been more social disorder with Safe Health Site Timmins around, while others say it’s a critical tool to save lives.
One city councillor moved to revoke the city’s support for making the site permanent.
“We really didn’t understand how much of an effect it would have,” said Coun. Bill Gvozdanovic.
Gvozdanovic said issues like public intoxication and violence worsened with the opening of the site.
But that’s a minority opinion, as others highlighted that it’s saving lives and improving the city.
“All the things that this place has done for the better, it’s going to undo and they’re going to go back downtown,” said Coun. Cory Robin
“This is fact,” added Coun. Andrew Marks.
Timmins’ temporary safe consumption site is set to close at the end of the month and this week, city council debated its importance in tackling the city’s addiction issues. (File)
“I don’t like living in a community that requires one, but I do.”
Mayor Michelle Boileau said she was concerned about the impact of closing the site.
“Without knowing what door they’ll be able to go through, I’m concerned about what their well-being and what the fate of our residents will be,” Boileau said.
First funded by the city, now the local hospital, the site is awaiting a provincial review of safe consumption sites, putting the fate of these facilities in limbo.
The Timmins and District Hospital is also applying for provincial funding to develop an all-in-one complex for mental health and addiction services.
One councillor said that would be the perfect location for a permanent safe consumption site.
Provincial responsibility
“This belongs at a full-service treatment facility, where the person who comes in and accesses the service, and gets a potential referral, just needs to walk down the hall,” said Coun. Steve Black.
Some councillors said the province has a duty to fund safe consumption sites and efforts to deal with the resulting social disorder from their clients.
“This shouldn’t be in my lap,” Marks said.
“I shouldn’t have to deal with this.”
“The provincial government and federal government are failing this issue,” Black said.
This as the city aims to improve safety through its security and outreach projects.
“It’ll be interesting, once we’ve seen a full cycle through the year, to determine whether there has been an impact,” Boileau said.
Black said the future of the city depends on getting this right.
“This is the No. 1 issue we face as a community,” he said.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Feels like mid-30s in parts of Canada, while other areas expecting snow
Anything is possible this week, as far as Canada's weather is concerned, with forecasts ranging from scorching heat in some parts of the country to rain and snow in others.
Independent stores and grocery alternatives see sales boost amid Loblaw boycott
As the month-long boycott of Loblaw-owned stores wears on, small independent food retailers and alternative grocery options say they're seeing a boost in traffic and sales.
1 dead, others injured after London-Singapore flight hit severe turbulence, Singapore Airlines says
One person has died aboard a London-Singapore flight that encountered severe turbulence, Singapore Airlines said Tuesday. The plane was diverted to Bangkok, where emergency crews rushed to help injured passengers amid stormy weather.
What is BORG drinking, and why is it a dangerous trend? An expert explains
If you've been to a party lately and haven't seen someone drinking a BORG, you're likely not partying with college students.
How to check the Air Quality Health Index and assess your health risks
As we enter another wildfire season, Environment and Climate Change Canada is advising people to pay attention to air pollution levels and check the Air Quality Health Index – especially on smoky days.
Cardinal Lacroix cleared after investigation ordered by the Pope
The Vatican has announced that the investigation it commissioned into allegations of sexual touching against Cardinal Gerald Cyprien Lacroix did not confirm any act constituting misconduct or abuse on the part of the Vatican.
Trudeau making 'Team Canada' charm offensive in visit to Philadelphia
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is in Philadelphia today, on his first trip south of the border since his government launched a new 'Team Canada' charm offensive in the United States.
Oilers win Game 7 over Canucks, advance to Western Conference Final
The Edmonton Oilers weathered a late Vancouver Canucks charge on Monday night, beating the hosts 3-2 to win their seven-game second-round playoff series in the decisive showdown.
Katy Perry sings goodbye to 'American Idol'
Katy Perry said her goodbyes on 'American Idol' after seven seasons. On Sunday night’s live 'idol' season finale, a medley of Perry's hit songs were performed, including 'Teenage Dream,' 'Dark Horse' and 'California Gurls.'