With the announcement of increased access to naloxone kits in pharmacies across the province, Wildrose is questioning why other valuable partners have been omitted from this life-saving initiative, the Wildrose Official Opposition said.
Increased access to naloxone was one of ten common-sense recommendations to combat the fentanyl crisis that were proposed by the Wildrose in 2015. The NDP government’s announcement of increased access to naloxone in pharmacies leaves questions about why access was not also provided to those who have day to day interaction with drug users who would be in a position to administer the life-saving drug.
“Wildrose wants to ensure those working closely with fentanyl users and who have built relationships are adequately equipped to ensure that naloxone kits are getting into the hands of those that need them most,” Wildrose Shadow Health Minister Drew Barnes said. “Addicts don’t overdose during regular business hours. With the current fentanyl crisis taking place in our province, we need to be looking at common-sense solutions to increase access to naloxone kits.”
With 272 fentanyl overdose deaths occurring in Alberta in 2015, a comprehensive solution to the crisis is desperately needed.
“Our party continues to urge the NDP government to fully implement the 10-point action plan developed by Wildrose to combat the fentanyl crisis that is occurring in our province,” Wildrose Shadow Justice Minister Scott Cyr said. “Fentanyl misuse is a public safety issue that is having a serious impact on our communities.”
Only Wildrose has developed a plan based on best practices from other jurisdictions to combat the fentanyl crisis and keep our communities safe.