Toxic drug supply poses risk to safe communities

The Chamber strongly supports safe communities. Everyone needs to feel safe at home, at work and in our communities.

Last week, new legislation was introduced to ban the use of illicit drugs from:

• a six-metre radius from building entrances, including businesses and residential buildings
• within six metres of a bus stop
• within 15 metres of playgrounds, spray and wading pools, and skate parks
• and at parks, beaches and sports fields.

The legislation attempts to address concerns raised now that personal possession of small amounts of illegal drugs is permitted. The rule change is part of a pilot program to reduce stigma, cited as a barrier holding people back from seeking help.

If passed, the legislation will allow police officers to stop people from using drugs if they don't move to a supervised consumption site or other appropriate area.