Madam Speaker, at a time when every community in this country is grappling with the devastating impacts of the toxic drug and overdose crisis, it is profoundly disappointing to see this issue reduced to clips and outrage instead of serious dialogue. Canadians expect better from us. They deserve a conversation rooted in facts, not theatrics, and the facts are clear: It is provinces and territories, not the federal government, that decide whether safe consumption sites may operate.
Every provincial and territorial minister of health can issue or refuse exemptions under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Health Canada reviews applications only after applicants demonstrate full compliance with local, municipal and provincial requirements, and show robust safety measures to protect clients and surrounding communities. If they cannot do that, the application does not proceed.
Our role is to support communities through targeted investments, including the youth mental health fund, giving young people earlier access to care and reducing emergency room pressures; expanded funding to the substance use and addictions program for prevention, treatment and harm reduction; continued support through the emergency treatment fund for urgent provincial and territorial needs; and, through budget 2025, strengthened enforcement and border measures to disrupt the illegal drug supply poisoning Canadians. These are the investments that save lives and support communities; they are not shortcuts and not slogans.
Safe consumption sites are one tool in a much broader response. This crisis does not lend itself to theatrics. It demands seriousness and leadership. Families that have lost loved ones deserve to see us rise to that responsibility. Every community is hurting. Every family touched by this crisis is grieving. They are looking to this House for clarity, compassion and a thoughtful, evidence-based plan forward.
Our government understands that we can protect communities and care for people struggling with addiction. Responsible leadership requires both.