The NDP says Saskatchewan saw more than one overdose death per day in January. Doyle Vermette, the opposition Critic for Mental Health and Addictions says, “We know that last year already doubled the highest year on record for overdose deaths in our province – and this year looks like the toll in lives will be even more severe.” He says it’s frustrating that the provincial government seems content to ignore the crisis. Vermette wants a clear and comprehensive strategy to eliminate wait times for detox and treatment.

Last week the Lighthouse Supported Living in Saskatoon averted seven potentially fatal overdoses by having staff and residents who are trained in administering Naloxone.  Anna Pacik, Communications Manager, said they surmise that the multiple overdoses which occurred at the same time last Thursday evening came from the same supply of drugs.