Saskatchewan’s government is cracking down on fentanyl and methamphetamine with new measures aimed at protecting communities, stopping drug traffickers, and supporting people addicted to drugs.
Officials said these steps will help reduce the supply of dangerous drugs while also helping people struggling with substance.
“These drugs have caused immense harm in our communities, leading to addiction, crime, and loss of life,” said Tim McLeod, Justice Minister and Attorney General.
“We are taking a firm stance to disrupt the flow of fentanyl and methamphetamine while also providing options for offenders to access the resources necessary for recovery.”
The government plans to impose strict provincial penalties for unauthorized production, transportation, and distribution of these substances, including fines that could reach as high as $1 million in some cases.
It will also examine updates to the Fine Option Program, allowing offenders to reduce court-imposed fines by attending approved addictions programming.
The goal is to encourage individuals to seek help instead of cycling through the justice system.
A major part of the new measures involves strengthening The Seizure of Criminal Property Act, 2009.
This Act allows the province to seize property acquired through illegal activities or used in crimes.
The government hopes this approach will strike at the profits of drug traffickers and dismantle networks that thrive on vulnerable people.
The province’s new plan will prioritize drug-related offenders under the Warrant Intelligence Team.
The team will work with government ministries to suspend benefits for offenders, while ensuring they are held accountable for their actions.
A set of changes to the Trespass to Property Regulations will classify drug use and other disruptive activities as trespassing, enabling authorities to better protect semi-public spaces.
Metis Nation-Saskatchewan President Glen McCallum welcomed the announcement, calling on governments at all levels to coordinate with indigenous partners and service providers.
“We all know that these illicit drugs are hurting our people,” said McCallum.
“It is more important than ever to work together with all governments – federal, provincial, Metis and First Nations in coordination to deter illegal activity but also work with those wanting to start the recovery path. We want to support these people with programming and transitioning into recovery-based living. The Government of Saskatchewan has committed to meaningful engagement with Metis Nation-Saskatchewan on the details of and before the implementation of these changes.”
To further disrupt trafficking, the province will update The Safe Public Spaces (Street Weapons) Act to include certain drug-related items as street weapons, giving police authority to seize them and lay charges.
In addition, provincial licences, including driver’s licences, firearms licences, and hunting and fishing licences, could be cancelled for individuals convicted of drug-related crimes.
Premier Scott Moe also voiced support for the new measures on social media.
“Fentanyl is a poison that destroys lives, families, and futures,” tweeted Moe.
“This deadly drug, and those who traffic it, have no place in Saskatchewan. Our government is committed to taking action by increasing enforcement and penalties against drug dealers. We will continue to work tirelessly with law enforcement, healthcare professionals, and community leaders to protect Saskatchewan from the grips of fentanyl. Together, we can make a difference and make our communities safer. Let's take a stand against the trafficking of fentanyl and ensure a safer future for everyone.”