Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, has released the following statement regarding the BC Coroners Service’s report on illicit drug toxicity deaths for February 2022:

“It’s heartbreaking to see the 174 lives lost in February due to the toxic drug crisis. My thoughts and sympathies go out to all the families who have lost a loved one. No words can ease this pain.

“We know there is more to do, and we won’t stop working until we turn this crisis around.

“This morning, I will be making an announcement on complex-care housing and will be available to provide further comment on this latest report.”

“Complex-care housing provides support for our communities’ most vulnerable people living with mental-health and substance-use challenges.”

Learn More:

Updated actions on the drug poisoning response: https://news.gov.bc.ca/25687