As COVID-19 consumes so much of our attention, the Angus Reid Institute has been considering what it calls, Canada’s other epidemic: Drug addiction, in particular, opioid dependence. The polling company has interviewed about five thousand adults and has found seven-in-ten Canadians say they feel the problem of opioid addiction has worsened in Canada over the past year. 48 per sent say it is worsening in their own community.

Two years ago, 42% said they were following the issue closely and having discussions about it with their friends and family. Now, as COVID-19 consumes their attention, just 16 per cent say the same. Still, Angus Reid says most people are calling for action.

A majority in every province canvassed support the decriminalization of all illegal drugs. The exception is in Saskatchewan and New Brunswick, where nearly half do. Proponents say it would reduce the risk to users by improving the quality of supply while encouraging users to seek drug treatment without stigma.