Advocates are concerned that the Manitoba government’s initiative to hold individuals under the influence of long-acting substances like methamphetamine at a Winnipeg detox center for up to 72 hours could jeopardize marginalized populations. Over 100 demonstrators congregated outside the Manitoba Legislative Building in downtown Winnipeg on Sunday, urging authorities to reconsider Bill 48, which extended the allowable detention period for heavily intoxicated individuals from 24 to 72 hours.
The legislation was recently approved by the Legislature. The provincial officials provided a media tour of the 20-room detention facility at 190 Disraeli Fwy., scheduled to commence operations by month-end, with plans to expand to an additional 20 rooms in the future. Rally organizer Monica Ballantyne expressed concerns about the rushed decision-making process and the potential risks of withdrawal-related fatalities among substance users.
Ballantyne emphasized that the fear of detention could drive individuals to use drugs clandestinely, heightening the risk of fatal overdoses. Minister of Addictions and Homelessness, Bernadette Smith, defended the new detox center, emphasizing its role in ensuring safety during critical moments of intoxication and psychosis. She highlighted the provision of substantial support within the facility, including links to follow-up services upon discharge.
Critics at the rally questioned the adequacy of health and addiction services at the new center and raised issues regarding culturally appropriate care for Indigenous community members. Health officials disclosed that the detention facility would offer enhanced health supervision compared to the existing 24-hour hold facility and would be managed by a nonprofit organization. Individuals seeking admission to the detox site must first receive clearance from a hospital.
Joseph Fourre, founder of the Singing Red Bear Foundation, expressed distress after viewing images of the facility’s austere environment, comparing it to a jail and advocating for a more compassionate approach to addressing drug-related issues. He emphasized the need for reduced treatment center wait times and increased access to addiction care. However, he expressed apprehension that individuals leaving the Disraeli site may face worsened outcomes.
In a statement, Minister Smith underscored the center’s focus on harm prevention, public protection, and providing care pathways for vulnerable individuals. Despite these assurances, Ballantyne remains skeptical about the effectiveness of the approach in ensuring community safety and promoting recovery among detainees.