Nurses Association Advocates for Harm Reduction at New Westminster City Council Meeting

In a recent presentation to the New Westminster City Council, Corey Ranger, a registered nurse and president of the Harm Reduction Nurses Association, highlighted the detrimental effects of criminalizing drugs. Ranger emphasized that criminalization exacerbates the harms associated with drug use, pushing individuals into unsafe environments and discouraging them from seeking help. He argued that a health-centered approach, rather than punitive measures, is essential for effectively addressing substance use issues and protecting public health. “Within the context of an unregulated drug-poisoning emergency that is contaminated with high concentrations of fentanyl, benzodiazepines and animal tranquillizers, that covert use is a recipe for death," Ranger stated.

During the same meeting, Councilor Daniel Fontaine proposed that the city should send a letter to the provincial government in Victoria, urging them to terminate what he described as a "failed decriminalization experiment." Fontaine contended that the decriminalization policy was not achieving its intended outcomes and called for a reassessment of the strategy. However, his request was met with resistance and ultimately defeated by the council.

Councillor Paul Minhaus supported this proposal noting that the current use of stigma was not proven to be helpful in combating drug use. This comment was debated within chambers.

The discussions at the council meeting reflect a broader debate on drug policy, with significant implications for public health and community safety. Ranger's advocacy underscores the importance of harm reduction strategies in creating supportive environments for individuals struggling with substance use, while Fontaine's stance highlights ongoing concerns and differing opinions on the effectiveness of decriminalization efforts.