Mr. Speaker, Canada's drug crisis continues to take far too many lives, and it is having devastating impacts on families and communities across the country. It is a complex public health and public safety challenge that requires working with those directly impacted to achieve a comprehensive and evidence-based response that includes prevention, harm reduction, treatment and recovery.
Since 2017, the federal government has taken significant steps and invested more than $1.2 billion to support a wide range of initiatives aimed at addressing the drug crisis. Through the Canadian drugs and substances strategy and the Government of Canada's border plan, Canada is implementing a comprehensive approach to reduce substance use and related harm, prioritizing public health while protecting public safety.
As part of the strategy, Health Canada provides funding to governments and community organizations across Canada through the substance use and addictions program. This program supports innovative, evidence-based initiatives in the areas of substance use prevention, harm reduction and treatment tailored to local needs.
Communities and organizations that are approved for funding under SUAP's terms and conditions and eligible expenditures deliver project activities to respond to their specific local needs and circumstances.
It is important to note that harm reduction is just one component of our comprehensive approach to saving lives and keeping communities safe. It complements prevention, treatment and recovery projects to address substance-use issues.
Our government supports harm reduction initiatives when these activities are part of evidence-based projects aimed at reducing substance-related harms, such as overdose and disease transmission.
Indeed, evidence shows that harm reduction measures help reduce infections and injuries associated with the sharing or use of dangerous substances. These measures save lives by reducing the risk of fatal overdoses and limiting the transmission of infectious diseases such as HIV and hepatitis C. These local projects also serve as essential points of contact with health services, treatment and social supports.
We will continue to take a balanced and evidence-based approach that saves lives, supports pathways to treatment and recovery, and keeps communities safe across Canada.