Manitoba lawmakers have approved a bill that extends the detention period for individuals highly intoxicated by methamphetamines or other long-lasting substances from 24 hours to up to 72 hours. The legislation, known as Bill 48 or the Protective Detention and Care of Intoxicated Persons Act, received almost unanimous support, with only one member, former NDPer-turned-Independent Mark Wasyliw (Fort Garry), opposing it.
Addictions Minister Bernadatte Smith emphasized that the new law aims to enhance public safety and assist individuals experiencing meth-induced psychosis or under the influence of long-lasting drugs who may pose risks to themselves or others. The 72-hour detention provision supersedes the previous Intoxicated Persons Detention Act from 1987, which limited the detention period to 24 hours at facilities like the one operated by Main Street Project. The NDP plans to establish a three-day protective care center at 190 Disraeli Fwy.
While the Progressive Conservatives supported the bill’s objective, they raised concerns about the proposed facility’s location near a school. PC Leader Obby Khan clarified that their reservations were not intended to delay the bill. Premier Wab Kinew warned of extending the legislative session if the Tories obstructed the final vote.
Despite some public opposition and concerns raised by advocacy groups, the bill garnered support from various emergency services sectors, including the police chief, physicians, and firefighting associations. Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham hailed the legislation as compassionate and beneficial for first responders, property owners, and individuals struggling with addiction.
Opponents, such as Fort Garry MLA Wasyliw, criticized the bill, accusing Kinew of disguising coercion as compassion and likening the protective care center conditions to solitary confinement. Kinew defended the bill, emphasizing the necessity of addressing the challenges posed by meth addiction and ensuring individuals receive the required care based on medical experts’ recommendations.