Madam Speaker, two days ago, yet another overdose alert was issued by Island Health for the Cowichan Valley. These advisories are a symptom of the opioid crisis that continues to ravage our communities, leaving a trail of shattered lives in its wake.
This is our new normal. We are living through two epidemics. In B.C. alone this year, we have already lost 1,000 lives, five times more than have been claimed by COVID-19. Despite these statistics, the Liberals only gave the opioid crisis a passing reference in the throne speech. The government continues to avoid declaring a public health emergency, continues to ignore experts who are calling for decriminalization, and continues to fail the communities bearing the brunt of this crisis.
My communities are calling out for help. Small businesses, front-line workers and local municipalities are all overwhelmed. The time for timid policies and half measures is over. We must do better.