Health Minister's Statement on Insite

Health Minister Michael de Jong issued the following statement in response to the Supreme Court of Canada ruling that supported the ongoing operation of Insite, North America's only supervised injection site.

"This decision by the Supreme Court of Canada represents a wise and humane ruling by a unanimous bench.

"Conclusive research studies have shown that addiction is a medical condition. Scientific evidence continually proves that Insite saves lives, is a health benefit and poses no risk to the public.

"One recent study in the peer-reviewed medical journal, The Lancet, showed that drug overdoses decreased by 35 per cent within 500 metres of Insite over several years of operation compared to only nine per cent in the rest of Vancouver.

"Since opening in 2003, Insite has contributed to the health and safety of thousands of people by saving lives through prevention of drug overdoses and has connected this vulnerable population to health and addiction services. Last year alone, Insite staff made over 5,000 referrals for health and addiction treatment.

"Today's ruling will allow the doctors, nurses and staff at Insite to continue to deliver care in a safe environment with a stable future.

"The wider implications of today's decision will now be scrutinized in the weeks and months ahead to fully determine the potential impact on the health-care system and on government."

Media Contact:

Ryan Jabs
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Health
250 952-1887 (media line)