Madam Speaker, I thank the member for Courtenay—Alberni for his strong advocacy on the matter.
The overdose crisis is one of the most serious and unprecedented public health threats in Canada's recent history. It is driven by the increasingly toxic and ever-changing illegal drug supply. We are committed to examining all tools at our disposal, and evidence, to respond to the tragic increase in overdoses and to help save lives, while supporting a balance between public health and public safety.
We know that a comprehensive approach is needed to address the crisis. This includes efforts across the continuum of care to prevent drug use, reduce harms and support people in accessing treatment and recovery services, as well as enforcement efforts to maintain public safety. It also includes ensuring that people have access to critical supports such as housing.
The government of Canada has invested almost $200 billion over 10 years to support provinces and territories to deliver services, in addition to the $1 billion we have directly invested to address the crisis. Regarding the member's question, the minister has been clear: Officials are working to reconstitute the expert task force so our response can be driven by evidence, not by ideology.
The government remains committed to addressing substance use and addiction as a health issue and not a criminal one. People struggling with addiction are not criminals. They need health care, not to be in jail. We changed the legislation and issued guidance to make sure that in cases of simple possession, police and prosecutors must now consider referring the person to health and social services, issuing a warning or taking no further action. As a result, they can consider both public health and public safety.
We know that we cannot act alone. All partners must work together to make health and social services available and accessible so people can be diverted from the criminal justice system into health care. As with any policy, these efforts must be made with a comprehensive plan for implementation. An exemption can be one piece of the puzzle, but we know that the changes need to be complemented by a range of other actions to have their intended impact.
We will continue working in partnership with all provinces, territories, municipalities, indigenous communities and experts to determine the best ways to support the health and well-being of people who use substances. We remain committed to taking a public health approach to the crisis and keeping everyone in our communities safe.