Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre and Bay of Quinte candidate Ryan Williams are addressing Belleville’s escalating addiction crisis with a comprehensive, common-sense plan focused on recovery and community safety. This initiative responds to the alarming surge in drug overdoses that led Belleville to declare a state of emergency in February 2024.
Investing in Treatment and Recovery
The Conservative plan will allocate $250 million annually over four years to fund life-saving treatment for 50,000 Canadians battling addiction. This investment averages $20,000 per person, recognizing that some cases may require more intensive care. Funding will be sourced by eliminating taxpayer-funded unsafe supply drug programs and pursuing legal action against opioid manufacturers responsible for the crisis.
Results-Based Funding Model
Treatment centers will receive payments based on the number of individuals they help achieve and maintain sobriety. Higher rates will be provided for challenging cases, such as those involving long-term homelessness or multiple overdoses. Funds will be disbursed gradually as treated individuals remain drug-free, with third-party validators confirming outcomes to ensure accountability.
Holding Traffickers Accountable
Recognizing the devastating impact of fentanyl, the plan proposes treating traffickers of this lethal drug as murderers. Individuals caught trafficking over 40 milligrams—enough to kill 20 people—will face life imprisonment. This measure aims to deter the distribution of dangerous substances in our communities.
We will also give police back the tools to put drug dealers away with jail, not bail, which has frustrated local police and kept drugs on the street.
Strengthening Border Security
To prevent the influx of illicit drugs, the plan includes the addition of 2,000 new Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) agents, deployment of container scanners at ports, and expanded patrols utilizing drones and surveillance towers. These enhancements will bolster our borders against drug smuggling operations.
A Commitment to Belleville
“Our community has been deeply affected by the addiction crisis, with emergency services stretched to their limits,” said Ryan Williams. “It’s time for a new approach that prioritizes treatment and holds those responsible accountable. This plan will not only assist 50,000 Canadians in their recovery journey but also safeguard our communities by addressing the root causes of the crisis.”
Pierre Poilievre added, “Enough is enough. The federal government wastes $144 million a year on radical drug policies that have failed and even made the problem worse. Our common-sense plan will bring recovery, not ruin. We will fund life-saving treatment for 50,000 people, helping them get off drugs for good. After our country lost 50,000 people to drug overdoses, the least we can do is invest in saving that same number through powerful treatment that works.”
