Expert Criticizes Toronto’s Rejection of Drug Decriminalization as a ‘Step Backwards’

Provinces and territories should continue advocating for drug decriminalization despite the federal government’s rejection of Toronto’s request, according to an expert.

Guy Felicella, a harm reduction and recovery expert from British Columbia, emphasizes the importance of treating substance addictions as a health issue across all regions in Canada.

“I think everybody should be making those requests still, regardless of what the federal government is going to do… because the current model of criminalizing people doesn’t work,” Felicella told Global News on Saturday.

On Friday, the federal government rejected a request from Toronto health officials to decriminalize the possession of small quantities of drugs for personal use. Federal Minister of Mental Health and Addiction Ya’ara Saks turned down the bid roughly two years after it was initially filed.

“She has determined that it does not adequately protect public health and maintain public safety,” the agency said.

Felicella argues that Ottawa’s decision reflects the federal government’s outdated view of drug use as a criminal issue, “which we already know doesn’t change anything.”

“We’re just going backwards into something that doesn’t work,” he stated.

Felicella points out that incarcerating substance users neither prevents drug use nor mitigates its associated harms. He also notes that the absence of decriminalization policies impedes individuals from leading fulfilling lives, as a criminal record negatively impacts access to employment and adequate housing.

He emphasizes that criminalizing the possession of small quantities of drugs further complicates the process for individuals who are grappling with substance use issues, often deterring them from seeking assistance due to fears of repercussions.

“You could lose your children, you could lose your job, you could lose your friends, your family. There are so many factors that go into this,” Felicella said.