@steve anton you seem to be under the impression that recovery is part of their plan it's not they have closed and stopped funding of all sober living building. "As it's discrimination against addicts" they have only enabled and encourages using. That's a big problem
Addicted, scared, dependent, uneducated and those who don’t think for themselves are what the government wants. Much easier to control people like that
"Removing the stigma" around drugs sounds a lot like encouraging people to belive doing drugs is a viable option. There was a new piece done in oregon where they have decriminalized drugs and the overall response seem to be that theyre worse off than before. These policies may keep drug addicts alive and out of jail but the solution should be treatment and rehabilitation, not the enablement of life ruining addictions.
I think everyone should have choice what to do with their body. And Oregon programm didnt worked, like this British Columbia pilot because you need to allow addicts to safe and not expensive drug supply, and you need enough beds to treat those in need.
Right? I don't understand what is the obsession with "reducing stigma". Why? Can anyone tell me why? There should be Stigma, so people don't become drug addict, especially kids and teenagers. You think that girl at 10:00 cares for a second about STIGMA? Common, she has way bigger problems and is desperately trying to get help to get clean, it sounds so dumb when the girl ask her about stigma when its nothing compared to what shes going through.
First off no California defelonized drugs, second Oregon is nothing like portugals model of decriminalization/legalization(with heroin) they don’t treat people with there addictions they don’t get people who use in public go to rehab, they don’t give people cheap housing, they don’t allow legal sale of drugs so there safe supply, and they don’t test street supply all of which Portugal has done
I can't help but notice how drug decriminalization has resulted in tent cities full of drug addicts. Ever heard the phrase "saving someone from themselves"? Some people do not have the ability to self-regulate themselves. Making drugs legal and easily accessible, would be like giving a "free pizza for life card" to a compulsive overeater.
@@alanj9978 yYou have no experience in the field. Someone who can spend their time working on their lives instead of searching for empties to fund and find and use drugs has a much better chance of giving them up. Try reading some studies instead of pretending you know stuff. I’m not a drug user. I have knowledge. I know people function better with the chemicals they need to function. THEN we can start healing the need for the chemicals.
@@whatifschrodingersboxwasacofin are the people selling the govt safe drugs for fentanyl working on their lives? Are the people living in tents working on their lives? The problem with destigmatizing drugs is it only looks at the problem from the perspective of drug users. What about kids? They’re being told a little bit is fine.
@whatifschrodingersboxwasac1336 Lol so what experience do you have that support supplying dangerous substances that they abuse will help? All while doing as they please with no repercussions. Paid for by the functional individuals that have to endure living in the cesspool the streets have become.
I lived in Vancouver 42 years before I moved to Alberta 11 years ago. From 1991 until 2003, I did Meth/E/Coke on a day in day out basis. I was afraid of heroin and because of that, I never did it. If they gave it out free and safe, I would be dead for sure. I was high daily for 13 years, and you know what made me quit... guilt and shame. Feeding drugs to junkies will just delay their death and prolong their misery. Guilt and shame are the best things to get you off drugs. Face your trauma. You can do it. Plus, I pay 42% income tax and I don't want to pay for your weakness
what he said!!!! Scott, i applaud your strength and sobriety choice, these addict's on fentanyl are idiots, you simply cannot ween an addict off fentanyl by giving them needles, places to use and more, the drug just way too strong, and yes, all these so called do-gooder programs only "delay their death and prolong their misery" as you put it, Today it seems only some where around 5 out of 100 addicted to fentanyl get clean, the rest just die from government enabling, not forced treatment as all other programs are failing...
Even if you are correct (that this only delays addicts deaths) then that means there is more time for them to, like yourself, get clean whether that be from some other program or guilt and shame. But the fact is that research has shown that decriminalization paired with access to supports and a safer supply does help reduce the impacts of addiction (like crime or unsafe practices - don't need to rob someone, steal, or prostitute yourself out to get drugs if you can access them safely and also don't compound the risks that come with needle sharing or unprotected sex). If there was a magic solution that would quickly and easily fix the addiction and poverty problems then we'd do it, but this is at least a step in the right direction and better than nothing.
"Every person that has a dilly prescription comes down here and sells them" even an addict can tell you this is just another money grab for Drug companies. The Government would rather let people wallow in their addiction.
You're so right! Omg you tell them When I needed narcotic pain killers legitimately prescribed to me because I was crippled from a serious permanent injury and never ending extreme chronic pain despite the fact that I was not an addict and had tried every other possible option before considering a narcotic prescription for years until I found out they could help me start walking again I never got even the slightest bit of help from doctors and hospitals etc in regards to narcotic pain killers despite all of the legitimate evidence I had and even after trying all other options prior, the DEA has any and all types of narcotic medications especially pain killers so heavily controlled and monitored that doctors don't want to even help legitimate patients anymore out of fear of what the US government will do to them for doing their job humanely But anyway I could go on though my point is that when I could no longer handle any of the pain any longer I almost shot myself in the head many times due to how much pain I was in and how mistreated and abandoned I felt by the doctors But now I can honestly tell you that big pharma controls everything and the government will do anything to get you legally hooked on prescription pain meds
Asking extreme drug addicts whether its a good thing that they are allowed to openly use drugs is stupid. It's like asking a thief if its a good thing to legally allow them to steal what the hell do you think they will say.
Ive asked many of them and actually alot say of course its not bad. Its horrible. They admit their addiction has really spiraled with it being openly allowed with no safe clean supply.
Your comment doesn’t make sense when it comes to scientific studies rehab and safe supply works directing people to places where people can use drugs safely and then if they want eventually get help is the answer
3:22 This is not being talked about enough. Safe supply is not really safe supply when it’s helping fentanyl users sustain their addictions for free because taxpayers pay for their safe supply which is then sold and used to buy more fentanyl (since the safe supply drug does not satisfy the high they are chasing). Moreover, the safe supply approach has led to a whole new group of people now addicted to the safe supply drug (hydromorphone) since it has flooded the market, lowering its market value, and therefore increasing it’s accessibility to new users (who are often vulnerable youth).
Then give them the drug they want instead of giving them shitty workaround drugs that are "approved". Of course they're gonna go sell them for what they really want, it's what they really want.
Destigmatizing won't work. For anyone who has had to guard property like me, thieves have a look here in Edmonton: drug addicted street guys with knapsacks & stolen mountain bikes, 1/2 white, 1/2 native, tatoos, swearing, littering, wearing masks. As soon as you stop watching them watch your property, things disappear. The guy from Ontario admitted doing crime for drugs.
Incredible, as an Italian I would never have believed such a thing. We see Canada as the Switzerland of North America. We think there is no delinquency or drug victims. We know about the United States, but Canada I never imagined. The world is collapsing.
It’s a free country. Create a zone for these users and let them use. Stop allowing medical services to save them and you might actually see a decline in users long term.
@@brevedad1they are actually dy!ng slowly, its the same. They know the risk when they start using it and they seem to be looking for that when they don't go to rehab 🤷♀️
Canada is not a free country, lol. We’re in the middle of a housing crisis because the Vancouver government doesn’t give us the freedom to build high density housing in highly populated areas.
As a resident of a nearby city and someone who works in the DTES occasionally I think this changes nothing. Harm reduction and it’s new incarnation in safe supply and decriminalization / reducing stigma have made things worse for these people. The lady in the wheelchair wants help and support to get clean, people seem more interested in dumping gasoline onto the bonfire. ‘Clean’ pharmaceutical company supplied opiates were the start of many peoples downward spiral to end up in the DTES to begin with. We should look into who funds non profits pushing safe supply and decriminalization campaigns.
Thank you finally someone that went through same thing as Me said same thing with logics. Ontop of getting clean from the devil. It also took my mom on hastings in March.
@@gaylehudson7267 I thought that too. But when I talked to the coroner he said it's coming from over seas China. China wanted to create disorder and disorganization in the west in order to be the new super power. Instead of nuclear weapons from states anymore its fentenyl and control of trade from China. East vs west. Because it's only countries in the west that are suffering not of the east were they sit a 2 billion people compared to 579 million north Americans. We're getting decimated. War 2027 !
Here's a great idea: legalize hardcore drugs. Create a government supplier. Taint all hard drugs with cyanide and/or arsenic. The problem will solve itself. Think about it - it's like ants using Raid on themselves
Sadly, I actually don't think is going to work. What might work is going back to old-fashioned rehab. Rehab needs to be offered at every turn....after operations, rehab needs to be offered at hospitals after operations or a check up a few days later to check for chemical dependence. Rehab needs to be offered at universities...perhaps even as a course. Rehab needs to be offered in prisons as in exchange for lower sentences. It needs to be everywhere.
Rehab saved my life. They closed down the youth rehab i went to in selkirk manitoba. Sad. I litterally would be dead or in prison without that program. Was addicted to oxy and benzos and cocaine. I now have a family and been sober for 7 years.
@@fattymcbastard6536 addicts of these hard drugs say they will go to therapy when they feel ready to, but the drug are just too strong and they will never be ready to willingly go there...
He is on meth, thatis why he has the fast mannerisms and speaks very quickly, addicts can easily fool people into thinking they are clean, don't be fooledl, and the lying, he says he is running from the law in Ontario but goes on the news that will be viewed by 1000s of people 😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😊
I mean if he's really clean for 6 years that would check out. But it's rare to see someone who went through that and has such opinions. Most of ex-drug addicts try to stay away from the communities that enabled their drug use. Some few brave ones go into outreach services and try to get others out. Very few have the opinion that using is fine. ... so maybe he's infact on some stimulants rather than painkillers, the hell I know.
You can’t trust an addict when they say they’re clean. I’ve talked to addicts before and shockingly they lie about their clean time or even what they consider clean. They sometimes conveniently ignore the times they relapsed.
selling and buying of drugs are harshly punished in most places in Asia. As a result they don't have the kind of drug issues you see in the West. Hard not to think that they just better understand through experience how drugs destroy the fabric of society. I have 6 friends and family members who have all died from drugs in the past 10 years. The latest was a month ago.
People are still using drugs in the Philippines. Its not working there either. There needs to be a balance. Force people into treatment not let them do whatever they want.
He said he came to Vancouver because it’s so lenient on drugs. Decriminalization sounds like an excellent plan to lure the rest of Canada’s unemployable drug addicted homeless to Vancouver. How about handing it out like candy? Maybe that will bring them in faster.
he later clarifies that because of his outstanding warrants in Ontario, he moved to BC. So aggressive drug policy in Ontario led to him fleeing to BC, not harm reduction.
@@aaronshields8135 You’re right, he left because of Ontario policies, and he chose Vancouver for the lack of hassle from the Police. He could have just gone to Montreal, but Vancouver lured him.
Safe supply works as long as there directing people to rehab services if help needed? Why should anyone be in jail for drugs? They need to defiantly prepping up the rehab and recovery centers but safe supply has worked look at Switzerland and Portugal places where u can get heroin as a prescription
@@breachperplex8846 I suspect rehab is regularly suggested, but not wanted. Why give up a drug that makes you feel good? Plus they’re allowed to party all day and night in the parks and streets, which they can’t do in a shelter, or rehab. Basically many have IQ’s equivalent to a 14 or 15 year old, one with big psychological problems, partying on the streets. In the Netherlands they are forced to take rehab options much more seriously as partying and living in the streets is illegal, and gets them an overnight stay in Jail. Rehab begins to look better after a night behind bars.
@@jesintajesinta and those drugs are winding up in the suburbs, certainly sold to teenagers and recreational users. We know these pharma grade drugs almost act as gateway drugs to things like heroin. That's exactly what happened before and they're doing the same stupid thing here in BC now.
@@jesintajesinta Dilaudid is the drug they're handing out. That's 'safe'. Street name is dillys. If these people are selling them then obviously other people are buying them and they're being distributed to people who they were never intended to be given to. That is not helpful to anyone other than the dealers who are reselling them.
That's the eventuality of a lot of these hard opiates. You will get to the point where it hooks you and you can't leave, and can do nothing but get high. You can't afford them if you don't make money. So that's where lots of roads lead and why addiction is a spiral downward.
In Toronto they have these safe injection sites for drug addicts. RIGHT NEXT DOOR IS A PLAYGROUND! Children and parents have found used syringes (some still had a small amount left inside.) all over the playground. NOTHING IS BEING DONE TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM! This whole world is going to hell. Nothing is what it used to be.
When it comes to non addictive drugs that's ok, but for highly addictive drugs, I think it's a big mistake. Having lenient penalty just increases the risk of more people falling into drugs. Drugs will destroy a person's life and their family. Imagine trying to help a relative who's addicted to a substance who's living in the street. Not only that this also causes tax payer money. Rehab, treatments, housing etc. It's a loss loss situation for everyone, imo. I used to think badly of Singapore's stand on drugs, but after hearing the pros and cons. I've changed my mind, I feel they are doing the right thing.
@@brevedad1where I live it honestly seems like every other person you meet is an alcoholic. It wouldn’t be the end of the world if we got rid of alcohol.
There should be no criminal charges pressed against someone for ingesting or possessing drugs. Despite the negative effects of drugs, we should always have the right to bodily autonomy and be allowed to choose what to do with our bodies without fear of legal repercussions. These people don't want to be like this, and they shouldn't be punished with their freedoms being stolen for it.
@@brevedad1 prohibition created a massive black market and a surge in organized crime. The mafia was born out of puritan nonsense, don't fall for this bs. Used to be against all alcohol like you, not a good idea
Not just about "decriminalizing" what about the violent behaviour drugs bring out in people? is it okay to kill another because they were under influence then blame the drugs and people get away with murder basically? Also in Canada, pharma shouldn't be giving opioids as pain meds. In Europe they don't do that. This is a North American problem
No, I disagree. Sorry, but I have osteoarthritis in my spine, and I get steriod injections in my back every 4-6 months, but in between when the steroids taper off I absolutely need pain medication so I can get up and go to work. Otherwise, I can barely walk .. I don't abuse the medication, but I do need them to function, unfortunately. If I didn't have a pain management plan in place, I'd be in trouble. My doctor and pharmacist are amazing. We work together to have a good plan in place... more doctors and pharmacists need to work together with a patient so they don't become addicted. Pain management plans consist of physical therapy, in conjunction with counseling and then medication , and transparency/honesty from the patient. In the end, it's really up to the individual not to abuse the medication.
@@Michelle-xe4ciyou’re talking about legal prescription drugs given to you by a doctor. We’re talking about illegally produced fentanyl sold by drug dealers.
They're handing out pharma grade drugs to these people who are just selling them as soon as they get them. These drugs wind up to recreational users who then could very likely become hardcore drug addicts like the individuals seen in this video. Safe supply is an incredibly stupid idea and should be cancelled immediately before we create even more addicts.
-You are on drugs all the time? -Yes, I am. -I have good news for you. Now, you can do drugs all day long legally. -Yea, thats cool. I am so happy now.
witnessing the decay of our society, Portland is worse-off ever since they decriminalized, Winnipeg is on the way, shoplifting and crime is at an all time high, i really dont see and end to this at all... i can only cringe and wait to see what's the next to hit us
Decriminalizing drugs is the CHEAPEST way the government can "do something" about drug use. Couple days to decriminalize then spend the rest of their day slacking off getting fat pockets from our tax.
I was schocked on my first visit to Vancouver downtown. I thought LA and SF were mutually exclusive events, but in Vancouver they won't even arrest you if you carry.
The ultimate goal is to save lives. However, reviving a drug addict four times a day is a waste of taxpayers money. Accidental overdoses do occur with drug users but I think we have to think of a responsible way of administering expensive treatments when needed.
This is absolutely heartbreaking. These band-aid solutions of our so called politicians won't fix the underlying issue of homelesness and mental agony. Give people the resources and tools to get better instead of perpetuating the cycle. Here .. take some meth or fentanyl..what could possibly go wrong?
They were telling her that what they had would last half the day, not 2.5 grams. But if 2.5 is legal for them, but the one's who sell it obviously have to carry much more on them, then there's a bit of an issue. You're saying don't sell drugs, but purchasing in quantity less than 2.5 is fine. But by buying it, they are demanding that someone else break the law. They are addicts. Where is it made? Them being able to carry it, but the whole rest of the process is illegal? They can't be consumers of opioids without creating demand for opioids. They should start shifting them out of the cities to the country or something. The issue is only cities have these sorts of populations, and no one has even healed themselves of such addictions while living right in one of these area's that are full of homeless drug addicts. It can only get worse. Don't even shift them in groups, where they would live under supervision. Shift them out individually. Start with the one's who are the least addicted. The one's who have the best chance to get out and stay out. Not the one's creating the problem, and the demand and .. heck even get them away from government. Don't let it be some government run thing because they don't work. If the gov can supply, like 100 million in drugs for people in these neighbourhoods which will be consumed all in these neighbourhoods, then why not put some money up for people willing to leave, not the people who refuse to leave. You're basically paying to extend their binder. That sort of shady practice is what started this to begin with. The government always tries to keep people in the city. No one who's not willing to leave, is willing to get better
I think your talking points should be how the crime and violence impacts the communities outside of Hastings. Ask the people that live on Hastings how their are robbed, beat up, killed, raped daily. How the crime is going g as far as ubc and other farther areas. Drugs are bad and the cause of much grief. Your questions no offense , are very weak and not addressing the real issues. You never brought up the crime and the effects. Or the mental hospitals rhe government shut down that fueled Hastings situation. Legalizing drugs is sick and very destructive. Hope you start asking the hard questions.
Liens reporting has been amazing. I hope shes always able to make these fringe remotes, id hate to see her locked in a studio reading a telepromoter. Regardless, what she does shes going to kill it.
Wont change a thing. I live below poverty level but have been able to maintain a roof over my head....so far. If I end up on the streets, I wouldn't want to be sober for it. It scares the hell out of me. The only things that will help fix anything are to reduce poverty and that means affordable housing. The other thing is better mental health care. Its a long wait in some areas to be able to see anyone at the Mental Health units. The crime rates and overdose deaths SKYROCKETED since 2017....which is the year that rent started to dramatically increase and continues to do so.
Being addicted to drugs is not fun, it’s not a party. Giving safe supply is such a tiny part of helping addicts. So much needs to be done. They need safe housing, rehab, medical help, mental help. Addicts need a lot of help and the policy makers should be asking people what they need and not just making policies that just scratch the surface of the problem.
If they're just selling the safe supply on the black market and using the money to buy illegal drugs then obviously that is a bad thing. The "safe" supply they're giving out is even more potent than oxycontin and being sold to anyone.
Let’s pray for Canada and BC! Omg it’s the end of days down there. Gosh everyone’s getting murdered robbed! Geez not even Mexico. Maybe the cartels are doing a better job at keeping Mexico safer than Canada.
Yes, in fact, I moved from Mexico to Canada. Hoping here was a safer place to live, we think about Canada as the "Switzerland of North America". I was very surprised to see what's happening in here, I currently live in Victoria BC and I'm moving right away from this province next month. Lots of stabbings in downtown Victoria lately, attacks, robberies, a lot of addicts giving a sketchy panorama in the streets... I have to admit I was kind of disappointed when I came to work here, I hope it's better in my new province. 🙌
This is really puzzling. If a person is in pain - should not the medical system be able to help? Why do they have to rely on the dealers on the street? The gymnast lady wants to go out of the situation but how? On the other side - it would be nice to provide evidence that providing the drugs help people leave them for good. And that the total number of user decrease. Otherwise - the public is left to trust (without evidence) because what we see on the street - increased usage and dependency points to a different conclusion. The testimony of the lady is heartbreaking. At the same time - what citizens observe is that the problem is getting worse. So - if what is being done is "right" how come things are getting "worse".
Whether or not people leave the drug is never brought up because it's not a consideration by law makers. They can't give proof to the affect you want because no proof exists. The entire argument is dependent on the idea that safe supply saves lives because the user is less likely to die from a bad hit, or that users might put themselves in less dangerous situations to get the drug- it's not based on the idea that their dependency is lessened. There are more people on drugs daily, and easy access does not lessen ODs.
@@mkyasha So if I am understanding correctly - all the efforts are made to save (or accommodate) "x" number of people but at the expense "y" number of people (new addicts). Since "y" increases more rapidly (judging from the current situation on the streets) and "y" eventually becomes "x" - that is - completely dependent - then we should expect that given the current trajectory the percentage of people dependent on drugs (as part of the total population) would increase (most likely significantly). And if the remaining population is overpowered by the need of the "x" and "y" - they will likely leave. Or - even if they do not - they most likely won't be able to support the needs of "x" and "y". Since "x" and "y" can't work to feed the need caused by the drugs (and the government has to provide for them) but the rest of the population is significantly diminished or have left - then this city or province or a country is destined to be ruled by anarchy. How can this be considered as a solution? We can see one of the points in this documentary. Is it not worth it to see the other view point? "Canada is dying".
@@mkyasha Not to mention that the people they talked to said that the people who they were handing out the drugs to, were turning around and selling them to other's, so that they could buy fentanyl, so doesn't that defeat the purpose of the safe supply? And yet the government won't cover the cost of my lidocaine pain infusions at $125/month, so that I DON'T become addicted to hard drugs
@@vancouverbluesea While I feel like your comment above is written in a way that is likely overcomplicated, you're correct. Consideration is being given to existing addicts, and the potential for new addicts is being ignored. But in addition to this, existing addicts are also going to OD more because they just literally have more access to drugs, and those drugs in some cases are stronger. I doubt it would ever get to the point that the non addict population will be "overrun", but they will get fed up, for sure.
'I don't drink, I dont smike cigarettes, I *only* smole fentanyl' Maybe destigmatization and saying doing hard drugs is no big deal isnt the solution hmm.
Until Recovery is part of harm reduction, it wont change a thing. People in recovery need support too. And open crack dens operating as shelters by non-profits profitering off addiction need to end.
I wonder why all the protections are being focused on and given to the drug users while the public is almost not in the picture? This government must protect the general public.
those who think harm reduction doesn't work aren't wrong, it just doesn't work as a sole solution, it's meant to work alongside other strategies. Decriminalization is not a monolithic policy towards fixing addiction. Harm reduction is something the local community is able to implement with little spending, so its extra effective for dollars spent. BUT housing solutions are necessary if we expect these people to GET BETTER
Decriminalized the possession of small amounts of certain drugs, has not worked anywhere. Doing the same thing, yet expecting different results is the definintion of insanity.
dumbest idea by an apologist mindset govt that has given up on doing the tough but correct approach... to get rid of them for good and not give them any temptation.. zero tolerance to drugs including pot, etc
What is going to Happen when they all need Hospital Care & there is Nothing for anyone. We as Canadians Have Gone way to Far on this Experiment, Very Cruel even for a Liberal to do this.
Robert Lehman and what's disappointing to realize is that people with medical emergencies or others who should be prioritized at the hospital will have to deal with these drug users and criminals in the same hospital getting top priority for care because the hospital security and staff want to get them in and out of there as soon as possible as to not cause a scene. This will waste precious time and resources for people who need it. They need to make more of these medical facilities and even hospital for drug users and others with mental health issues who at times pose a danger and safety issues where there should not be any. A hospital should feel like a safe space to go
Maybe make it illegal to use outside of a zone and in public. No driver's licenses until doctor cleared. Seriously illegal to sell for profit. The truth is most drug users cannot function well in society. Or it is just a matter of time before they cause an issue. If anyone wants help there should be a part of the zone that is for recovery. Medical dependence is a different matter and should be managed in a hospital type asylum. There are plenty of prescription drug addicts. That needs addressing. The explanation of bad mix was interesting information. It is a dumb choice though, for sure. No one is immune to addiction if they try drugs. Normalizing or turning a blind eye won't be good for youth. They will think "eh....what can happen? I'm young. Everyone else does it. I don't want to miss out." Let's show the results rather than the party idea of "isn't it cool" or the media idea of "I am in so much pain...isn't it tragic and dramatic?" Violent drug users are a different matter entirely. They need jail and separated.
I thought the same thing " the government should provide proper equipment for the people who a mixing the drugs up" yikes, totally ridiculous clown world.
Lmao that one guy is out of his mind 😂 wants the government to give tax dollars to their heroin dealers because the dealers know what kind of heroin and fentanyl they like. Maybe another fifteen years Canada will be at that point.
So you like CBC reporters and the work they do, but think CBC should be defunded…. You know, without the CBC, stories about the DTES would only be done from the perspective of business owners and the rich. Defunding the CBC would guarantee that ALL media would be run by the rich. Sure CBC has it’s issues, but we need more than just the voice of the rich in media.
Decriminalize drigs. Hell actually just hand em out too while banning the possession of narcan. Guarantee these degenerates take themselves out and stop being a drain on our resources.
The government should give the stuff out for free. It would take the money away from the violent criminal dealer network and allow the government to directly influence user culture.
decriminalization - yes but that should just mean that addicts dont get arrested and thrown in a jail not that narco terrorists can then open the streets up to flood it with Fent
I worked at B.C. Collateral for five years. For those that don't know, that was a major pawnbroker in the heart of the DTES. Through our clients I got a firsthand knowledge of the drug scene there. That is where I learned that these "drug addicts are people, like you and I, but with their own set of issues. I also learned about the people that prey on them down there. The dealers who will front drugs to girls and women. They then later force them into prostitution to pay off their drug debts. Then front them more drugs so that they can do the whole thing again. After a few cycles of that the women no longer care about what happens to them. Or the people who got hooked in the hospital, recovering from car accidents etc. After a couple of try's at getting them off the prescription meds our medical system just throws them onto the street to fend on their own. Or the mentally/emotionally challenged people down there who are just prey to the wolves on the street. Welfare Wednesday is known as Mardi Gras. That's where you will see three or four ambulances within a two block stretch dealing with overdoses, all day long. I've often half jokingly said that social services should just hand the welfare checks direct to the drug dealers and keep the victims out of the deal. Because that is basically what happens anyway with a lot of the people. I could write pages and pages about this. But basically it is a much more complex issue than the average person on the street realizes. There are many different players in this game, some obvious and some not so obvious. But it is a dangerous game with a high fatality rate. Unfortunately it is also a political game, with lawyers turned politicians using these peoples lives as bargaining chips. Sometimes they look as bad if not worse than the nastiest of dealers. Portugal set the model years ago by decriminalizing possession for all drugs. The improvements that this brought to that community are nothing short of phenomenal. Fewer addicts, fewer overdoses and lower crime rates are all part of what happened from that move. But our politicians still argue, make deals and play games with this. Why?
So many great points. Once they're addicted, without proper help, there is no way out and they're just prey to all those predators out there. If they had other options, there would not be so many people out there being preyed upon and dying.
I dont think the government should be enabling drug addicts. We should be making certain that everyone who wants help kicking their habit has the resources and the knowledge of those resourrces to straighten out their lives.
It’s interesting how treatment wasn’t a topic of conversation. Enabling drug addiction isn’t the answer.
That wasn't the topic of conversation. Read more about this topic you have a very limited understanding of this issue.
@@steveanton763 Maybe it should be?Fueling the pharmaceutical industry is a bandaid and not the cure.
@steve anton you seem to be under the impression that recovery is part of their plan it's not they have closed and stopped funding of all sober living building. "As it's discrimination against addicts" they have only enabled and encourages using. That's a big problem
It is in Vancouver? Here drug use isn't seen as "bad" it's encouraged. It's bad to say you should stop doing drugs.
Addicted, scared, dependent, uneducated and those who don’t think for themselves are what the government wants. Much easier to control people like that
"Removing the stigma" around drugs sounds a lot like encouraging people to belive doing drugs is a viable option. There was a new piece done in oregon where they have decriminalized drugs and the overall response seem to be that theyre worse off than before. These policies may keep drug addicts alive and out of jail but the solution should be treatment and rehabilitation, not the enablement of life ruining addictions.
Through education you could prevent that.
Take the taxes you get from legal drug sales and put them into drug prevention programs.
I think everyone should have choice what to do with their body. And Oregon programm didnt worked, like this British Columbia pilot because you need to allow addicts to safe and not expensive drug supply, and you need enough beds to treat those in need.
I think removing the stigma that they were addicts, but people need to be more accepting of those who were able to be clean.
Right? I don't understand what is the obsession with "reducing stigma". Why? Can anyone tell me why? There should be Stigma, so people don't become drug addict, especially kids and teenagers.
You think that girl at 10:00 cares for a second about STIGMA? Common, she has way bigger problems and is desperately trying to get help to get clean, it sounds so dumb when the girl ask her about stigma when its nothing compared to what shes going through.
@@Breakbeat90s So you build a system where you need drug addicts to fund prevention programs? This is completely stupid.
Oregon and California have decriminalized drugs and they're both having a terrible time with drug addiciton and homelessness. Just saying.
I know, right? If I lived in Vancouver, I'd be so mad.
First off no California defelonized drugs, second Oregon is nothing like portugals model of decriminalization/legalization(with heroin) they don’t treat people with there addictions they don’t get people who use in public go to rehab, they don’t give people cheap housing, they don’t allow legal sale of drugs so there safe supply, and they don’t test street supply all of which Portugal has done
But yeah keep getting likes with your petty comment instead of listening to facts
@@breachperplex8846 what facts are those?
The problem is you can' t just decriminalise drugs, you have to also force the users into rehab and the dealers must be harshly punished
I can't help but notice how drug decriminalization has resulted in tent cities full of drug addicts. Ever heard the phrase "saving someone from themselves"? Some people do not have the ability to self-regulate themselves. Making drugs legal and easily accessible, would be like giving a "free pizza for life card" to a compulsive overeater.
Hush, you're talking sense. Drug advocates just want more drugs. And free everything else.
@@alanj9978 yYou have no experience in the field. Someone who can spend their time working on their lives instead of searching for empties to fund and find and use drugs has a much better chance of giving them up. Try reading some studies instead of pretending you know stuff. I’m not a drug user. I have knowledge. I know people function better with the chemicals they need to function. THEN we can start healing the need for the chemicals.
And then giving them a lifetime subscription to Weight Watchers. You stopped thinking when it suited you. 🤷🏼♂️
@@whatifschrodingersboxwasacofin are the people selling the govt safe drugs for fentanyl working on their lives? Are the people living in tents working on their lives? The problem with destigmatizing drugs is it only looks at the problem from the perspective of drug users. What about kids? They’re being told a little bit is fine.
@whatifschrodingersboxwasac1336
Lol so what experience do you have that support supplying dangerous substances that they abuse will help? All while doing as they please with no repercussions. Paid for by the functional individuals that have to endure living in the cesspool the streets have become.
I lived in Vancouver 42 years before I moved to Alberta 11 years ago. From 1991 until 2003, I did Meth/E/Coke on a day in day out basis. I was afraid of heroin and because of that, I never did it. If they gave it out free and safe, I would be dead for sure. I was high daily for 13 years, and you know what made me quit... guilt and shame. Feeding drugs to junkies will just delay their death and prolong their misery. Guilt and shame are the best things to get you off drugs. Face your trauma. You can do it. Plus, I pay 42% income tax and I don't want to pay for your weakness
what he said!!!! Scott, i applaud your strength and sobriety choice, these addict's on fentanyl are idiots, you simply cannot ween an addict off fentanyl by giving them needles, places to use and more, the drug just way too strong, and yes, all these so called do-gooder programs only "delay their death and prolong their misery" as you put it, Today it seems only some where around 5 out of 100 addicted to fentanyl get clean, the rest just die from government enabling, not forced treatment as all other programs are failing...
Even if you are correct (that this only delays addicts deaths) then that means there is more time for them to, like yourself, get clean whether that be from some other program or guilt and shame. But the fact is that research has shown that decriminalization paired with access to supports and a safer supply does help reduce the impacts of addiction (like crime or unsafe practices - don't need to rob someone, steal, or prostitute yourself out to get drugs if you can access them safely and also don't compound the risks that come with needle sharing or unprotected sex). If there was a magic solution that would quickly and easily fix the addiction and poverty problems then we'd do it, but this is at least a step in the right direction and better than nothing.
Guilt and shame become the root of the addiction cycle
42% tax is wild
@@dealbreakercgreat point
If you reduce the consequences for a situation. That situation increases.
Now try to convince leftists of this. 🤡
"Every person that has a dilly prescription comes down here and sells them" even an addict can tell you this is just another money grab for Drug companies.
The Government would rather let people wallow in their addiction.
You're so right! Omg you tell them
When I needed narcotic pain killers legitimately prescribed to me because I was crippled from a serious permanent injury and never ending extreme chronic pain despite the fact that I was not an addict and had tried every other possible option before considering a narcotic prescription for years until I found out they could help me start walking again
I never got even the slightest bit of help from doctors and hospitals etc in regards to narcotic pain killers despite all of the legitimate evidence I had and even after trying all other options prior, the DEA has any and all types of narcotic medications especially pain killers so heavily controlled and monitored that doctors don't want to even help legitimate patients anymore out of fear of what the US government will do to them for doing their job humanely
But anyway I could go on though my point is that when I could no longer handle any of the pain any longer I almost shot myself in the head many times due to how much pain I was in and how mistreated and abandoned I felt by the doctors
But now I can honestly tell you that big pharma controls everything and the government will do anything to get you legally hooked on prescription pain meds
Asking extreme drug addicts whether its a good thing that they are allowed to openly use drugs is stupid. It's like asking a thief if its a good thing to legally allow them to steal what the hell do you think they will say.
Ive asked many of them and actually alot say of course its not bad. Its horrible. They admit their addiction has really spiraled with it being openly allowed with no safe clean supply.
@@mdf3006 addiction is a choice. Stop covering for degenerates. Give drug addicts the rope.
Your comment doesn’t make sense when it comes to scientific studies rehab and safe supply works directing people to places where people can use drugs safely and then if they want eventually get help is the answer
Decriminalizing highly addictive opiates does not help people. It enables.
3:22 This is not being talked about enough. Safe supply is not really safe supply when it’s helping fentanyl users sustain their addictions for free because taxpayers pay for their safe supply which is then sold and used to buy more fentanyl (since the safe supply drug does not satisfy the high they are chasing). Moreover, the safe supply approach has led to a whole new group of people now addicted to the safe supply drug (hydromorphone) since it has flooded the market, lowering its market value, and therefore increasing it’s accessibility to new users (who are often vulnerable youth).
Then give them the drug they want instead of giving them shitty workaround drugs that are "approved". Of course they're gonna go sell them for what they really want, it's what they really want.
Destigmatizing won't work. For anyone who has had to guard property like me, thieves have a look here in Edmonton: drug addicted street guys with knapsacks & stolen mountain bikes, 1/2 white, 1/2 native, tatoos, swearing, littering, wearing masks. As soon as you stop watching them watch your property, things disappear. The guy from Ontario admitted doing crime for drugs.
I love that you did what the government should be doing and actually speaking to the people it affects
They spoke to druggies LMAO
They don't care to, because it's not there problem, the live where this doesn't reach there doorstep
lol! What about the people who pay the taxes to fund their drug habits and pay for living expenses? It affects us too.
Incredible, as an Italian I would never have believed such a thing. We see Canada as the Switzerland of North America. We think there is no delinquency or drug victims. We know about the United States, but Canada I never imagined. The world is collapsing.
Oh as an American, Canada definitely has problems!
That's the issue with sterotypes 🤪
Canada, since the seventies, has become unrecognizable. Logic and law have been turned upside down.
I totally agree 👍 oh and by the way. I love ❤️ Italy 🇮🇹 would love to visit one day.
It’s a free country. Create a zone for these users and let them use. Stop allowing medical services to save them and you might actually see a decline in users long term.
We have. It's called Downtown at whatever city you choose.
so you want them to be dea**
@@brevedad1they are actually dy!ng slowly, its the same.
They know the risk when they start using it and they seem to be looking for that when they don't go to rehab 🤷♀️
Canada is not a free country, lol. We’re in the middle of a housing crisis because the Vancouver government doesn’t give us the freedom to build high density housing in highly populated areas.
Yes@@brevedad1
Ban all the drugs, and provide free programmes for addicts . We as humans need to have restrictions on so many levels otherwise we go down so low
As a resident of a nearby city and someone who works in the DTES occasionally I think this changes nothing. Harm reduction and it’s new incarnation in safe supply and decriminalization / reducing stigma have made things worse for these people. The lady in the wheelchair wants help and support to get clean, people seem more interested in dumping gasoline onto the bonfire. ‘Clean’ pharmaceutical company supplied opiates were the start of many peoples downward spiral to
end up in the DTES to begin with. We should look into who funds non profits pushing safe supply and decriminalization campaigns.
Thank you finally someone that went through same thing as Me said same thing with logics. Ontop of getting clean from the devil. It also took my mom on hastings in March.
Big pharma wants you as a customer. They are umbrella corp
Population control, baby.
@@gaylehudson7267 I thought that too. But when I talked to the coroner he said it's coming from over seas China. China wanted to create disorder and disorganization in the west in order to be the new super power. Instead of nuclear weapons from states anymore its fentenyl and control of trade from China. East vs west. Because it's only countries in the west that are suffering not of the east were they sit a 2 billion people compared to 579 million north Americans. We're getting decimated. War 2027 !
th-cam.com/video/_RaWzJUeT0o/w-d-xo.html
Here's a great idea: legalize hardcore drugs. Create a government supplier. Taint all hard drugs with cyanide and/or arsenic. The problem will solve itself. Think about it - it's like ants using Raid on themselves
Sadly, I actually don't think is going to work. What might work is going back to old-fashioned rehab. Rehab needs to be offered at every turn....after operations, rehab needs to be offered at hospitals after operations or a check up a few days later to check for chemical dependence. Rehab needs to be offered at universities...perhaps even as a course. Rehab needs to be offered in prisons as in exchange for lower sentences. It needs to be everywhere.
Rehab saved my life. They closed down the youth rehab i went to in selkirk manitoba. Sad. I litterally would be dead or in prison without that program. Was addicted to oxy and benzos and cocaine. I now have a family and been sober for 7 years.
Rehab needs to mandatory. Addicts don't want rehab; they want to fix their withdrawal symptoms.
I agree. The solution is mandatory rehab. Not decriminalizing
Safe supply works! It’s just they also need to be asked if they need help with getting off drugs
@@fattymcbastard6536 addicts of these hard drugs say they will go to therapy when they feel ready to, but the drug are just too strong and they will never be ready to willingly go there...
Guy in the hoodie seems extremely intelligent and is very articulate. Very surprising to see someone like that on the streets that used to buy drugs.
He is on meth, thatis why he has the fast mannerisms and speaks very quickly, addicts can easily fool people into thinking they are clean, don't be fooledl, and the lying, he says he is running from the law in Ontario but goes on the news that will be viewed by 1000s of people 😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😊
Did you guys even watch? He is 6 years clean 😅
Not as uncommon as you may think!
I mean if he's really clean for 6 years that would check out. But it's rare to see someone who went through that and has such opinions. Most of ex-drug addicts try to stay away from the communities that enabled their drug use. Some few brave ones go into outreach services and try to get others out. Very few have the opinion that using is fine.
... so maybe he's infact on some stimulants rather than painkillers, the hell I know.
You can’t trust an addict when they say they’re clean. I’ve talked to addicts before and shockingly they lie about their clean time or even what they consider clean. They sometimes conveniently ignore the times they relapsed.
BC got it wrong. Send the users to rehab don't give them more drugs Dah
BC will always get it wrong, keep voting NDP
Your son or daughter comes to you because they have a drug problem. Your solution… here’s more drugs for you. Good job government….
Just look at what happened in Portland Oregon. Terrible idea that will ruin the city for sure.
Short Answer: No! No it is not!
There is no such thing as "safe drugs." The only "safe supply" is none at all.
selling and buying of drugs are harshly punished in most places in Asia. As a result they don't have the kind of drug issues you see in the West. Hard not to think that they just better understand through experience how drugs destroy the fabric of society. I have 6 friends and family members who have all died from drugs in the past 10 years. The latest was a month ago.
Ever go to Pattaya? Thailand? Many people in the bars are using methamphetamine. Nigerians offer it to all the tourists/farangs
freedom comes at a cost
There is also a big difference in North America vs Europe, largely due to how opioids were handled out very freely in NA for pain relief.
You mean the far eastern Asian countries like China Korea Taiwan and Japan.
People are still using drugs in the Philippines. Its not working there either. There needs to be a balance. Force people into treatment not let them do whatever they want.
He said he came to Vancouver because it’s so lenient on drugs. Decriminalization sounds like an excellent plan to lure the rest of Canada’s unemployable drug addicted homeless to Vancouver. How about handing it out like candy? Maybe that will bring them in faster.
he later clarifies that because of his outstanding warrants in Ontario, he moved to BC. So aggressive drug policy in Ontario led to him fleeing to BC, not harm reduction.
@@aaronshields8135 You’re right, he left because of Ontario policies, and he chose Vancouver for the lack of hassle from the Police. He could have just gone to Montreal, but Vancouver lured him.
Safe supply works as long as there directing people to rehab services if help needed? Why should anyone be in jail for drugs? They need to defiantly prepping up the rehab and recovery centers but safe supply has worked look at Switzerland and Portugal places where u can get heroin as a prescription
@@breachperplex8846 I suspect rehab is regularly suggested, but not wanted. Why give up a drug that makes you feel good? Plus they’re allowed to party all day and night in the parks and streets, which they can’t do in a shelter, or rehab. Basically many have IQ’s equivalent to a 14 or 15 year old, one with big psychological problems, partying on the streets. In the Netherlands they are forced to take rehab options much more seriously as partying and living in the streets is illegal, and gets them an overnight stay in Jail. Rehab begins to look better after a night behind bars.
@@MK-cc5vescientifically and statistically it works Portugal is a great model but Czech Republic, Netherlands, and Switzerland have the same models
Never once did the interviewer notice-comment-remark on all the bars in the storefront windows. That tells me all I need to know
It’s a misconception that “safe” supply doesn’t kill people. It does and long term use of “safe” supply can prove fatal and have debilitating effects.
That one man said it all. The safe supply are being sold off and being sold on the black market.
@@jacksonjacob7791 yes and that means people want these “safe” supply drugs because they wouldn’t be buying them on the black market otherwise.
@@jesintajesinta and those drugs are winding up in the suburbs, certainly sold to teenagers and recreational users. We know these pharma grade drugs almost act as gateway drugs to things like heroin. That's exactly what happened before and they're doing the same stupid thing here in BC now.
@@jesintajesinta Dilaudid is the drug they're handing out. That's 'safe'. Street name is dillys. If these people are selling them then obviously other people are buying them and they're being distributed to people who they were never intended to be given to. That is not helpful to anyone other than the dealers who are reselling them.
@@jacksonjacob7791 Exactly. That’s the problem with handing out addictive substances. You never know where they’ll end up.
I say anyone can use anything they want, but once you steal or harm to supply that addiction, that is the issue.
That's the eventuality of a lot of these hard opiates. You will get to the point where it hooks you and you can't leave, and can do nothing but get high. You can't afford them if you don't make money. So that's where lots of roads lead and why addiction is a spiral downward.
Downtown Vancouver is getting worst and worst, just ask Nordstrom how they're doing with shoplifting and people smoking crack in the washrooms.
In Toronto they have these safe injection sites for drug addicts. RIGHT NEXT DOOR IS A PLAYGROUND!
Children and parents have found used syringes (some still had a small amount left inside.) all over the playground. NOTHING IS BEING DONE TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM!
This whole world is going to hell. Nothing is what it used to be.
It’s all connected… housing, health care system, recovery programs, the legal system… we need to fix everything
excellent reporting by Lien. Enjoy following these DTES reports
What a wrong way to help addiction, what’s wrong with politicians? They will regret this big time!.
Addiction to drugs is only going to get worse.
Politicians won't, people will
When it comes to non addictive drugs that's ok, but for highly addictive drugs, I think it's a big mistake. Having lenient penalty just increases the risk of more people falling into drugs. Drugs will destroy a person's life and their family. Imagine trying to help a relative who's addicted to a substance who's living in the street. Not only that this also causes tax payer money. Rehab, treatments, housing etc. It's a loss loss situation for everyone, imo.
I used to think badly of Singapore's stand on drugs, but after hearing the pros and cons. I've changed my mind, I feel they are doing the right thing.
totally, back to criminalize alcohol
@@brevedad1where I live it honestly seems like every other person you meet is an alcoholic. It wouldn’t be the end of the world if we got rid of alcohol.
There should be no criminal charges pressed against someone for ingesting or possessing drugs. Despite the negative effects of drugs, we should always have the right to bodily autonomy and be allowed to choose what to do with our bodies without fear of legal repercussions. These people don't want to be like this, and they shouldn't be punished with their freedoms being stolen for it.
@@brevedad1 prohibition created a massive black market and a surge in organized crime. The mafia was born out of puritan nonsense, don't fall for this bs. Used to be against all alcohol like you, not a good idea
Not just about "decriminalizing" what about the violent behaviour drugs bring out in people? is it okay to kill another because they were under influence then blame the drugs and people get away with murder basically?
Also in Canada, pharma shouldn't be giving opioids as pain meds. In Europe they don't do that. This is a North American problem
No, I disagree. Sorry, but I have osteoarthritis in my spine, and I get steriod injections in my back every 4-6 months, but in between when the steroids taper off I absolutely need pain medication so I can get up and go to work. Otherwise, I can barely walk .. I don't abuse the medication, but I do need them to function, unfortunately. If I didn't have a pain management plan in place, I'd be in trouble. My doctor and pharmacist are amazing. We work together to have a good plan in place... more doctors and pharmacists need to work together with a patient so they don't become addicted. Pain management plans consist of physical therapy, in conjunction with counseling and then medication , and transparency/honesty from the patient. In the end, it's really up to the individual not to abuse the medication.
@@Michelle-xe4ciyou’re talking about legal prescription drugs given to you by a doctor. We’re talking about illegally produced fentanyl sold by drug dealers.
Kerrys hands.. they look so painful. I really hope she gets the help she deserves.
There are some things that shouldn't be legal
Kelly deserves the world. I hoped she makes it
I agree
The government provide the dope? This is wild that they legalize the hard stuff, wow!
It's not legal. Possession of a small amount has been decriminalized, that's all.
They're handing out pharma grade drugs to these people who are just selling them as soon as they get them. These drugs wind up to recreational users who then could very likely become hardcore drug addicts like the individuals seen in this video. Safe supply is an incredibly stupid idea and should be cancelled immediately before we create even more addicts.
When something you love is on fire and the government says here is some free gasoline!!!
Drug problem in Vancouver is not being solved properly. It needs a reform.
-You are on drugs all the time?
-Yes, I am.
-I have good news for you. Now, you can do drugs all day long legally.
-Yea, thats cool. I am so happy now.
witnessing the decay of our society, Portland is worse-off ever since they decriminalized, Winnipeg is on the way, shoplifting and crime is at an all time high, i really dont see and end to this at all... i can only cringe and wait to see what's the next to hit us
Decriminalizing drugs is the CHEAPEST way the government can "do something" about drug use. Couple days to decriminalize then spend the rest of their day slacking off getting fat pockets from our tax.
I was schocked on my first visit to Vancouver downtown. I thought LA and SF were mutually exclusive events, but in Vancouver they won't even arrest you if you carry.
The ultimate goal is to save lives. However, reviving a drug addict four times a day is a waste of taxpayers money. Accidental overdoses do occur with drug users but I think we have to think of a responsible way of administering expensive treatments when needed.
What happened to rehab?
Mixing drug users with the genral public...should that even need to be asked?! Wtf
The dude with the checkered hoodie is actually smarter and more articulate than any of our politicians ! Lol !
100%, I was thinking the same thing...
Watch till the end, he says he is clean a has a job now.
I was impressed with how eloquent yet down to earth he was. Great guy!!!
@@zaz214 -I’d wish we could have at least one person like him on City council who could truly speak for the folks who have no voice.
Thats not saying much from our boxwater blackface
This is absolutely heartbreaking. These band-aid solutions of our so called politicians won't fix the underlying issue of homelesness and mental agony. Give people the resources and tools to get better instead of perpetuating the cycle. Here .. take some meth or fentanyl..what could possibly go wrong?
Awesomely put
They were telling her that what they had would last half the day, not 2.5 grams. But if 2.5 is legal for them, but the one's who sell it obviously have to carry much more on them, then there's a bit of an issue. You're saying don't sell drugs, but purchasing in quantity less than 2.5 is fine. But by buying it, they are demanding that someone else break the law. They are addicts. Where is it made? Them being able to carry it, but the whole rest of the process is illegal? They can't be consumers of opioids without creating demand for opioids. They should start shifting them out of the cities to the country or something. The issue is only cities have these sorts of populations, and no one has even healed themselves of such addictions while living right in one of these area's that are full of homeless drug addicts. It can only get worse. Don't even shift them in groups, where they would live under supervision. Shift them out individually. Start with the one's who are the least addicted. The one's who have the best chance to get out and stay out. Not the one's creating the problem, and the demand and .. heck even get them away from government. Don't let it be some government run thing because they don't work. If the gov can supply, like 100 million in drugs for people in these neighbourhoods which will be consumed all in these neighbourhoods, then why not put some money up for people willing to leave, not the people who refuse to leave. You're basically paying to extend their binder. That sort of shady practice is what started this to begin with. The government always tries to keep people in the city. No one who's not willing to leave, is willing to get better
I think your talking points should be how the crime and violence impacts the communities outside of Hastings. Ask the people that live on Hastings how their are robbed, beat up, killed, raped daily. How the crime is going g as far as ubc and other farther areas. Drugs are bad and the cause of much grief. Your questions no offense , are very weak and not addressing the real issues. You never brought up the crime and the effects. Or the mental hospitals rhe government shut down that fueled Hastings situation. Legalizing drugs is sick and very destructive. Hope you start asking the hard questions.
Liens reporting has been amazing. I hope shes always able to make these fringe remotes, id hate to see her locked in a studio reading a telepromoter. Regardless, what she does shes going to kill it.
Wont change a thing. I live below poverty level but have been able to maintain a roof over my head....so far. If I end up on the streets, I wouldn't want to be sober for it. It scares the hell out of me. The only things that will help fix anything are to reduce poverty and that means affordable housing. The other thing is better mental health care. Its a long wait in some areas to be able to see anyone at the Mental Health units. The crime rates and overdose deaths SKYROCKETED since 2017....which is the year that rent started to dramatically increase and continues to do so.
Being addicted to drugs is not fun, it’s not a party. Giving safe supply is such a tiny part of helping addicts. So much needs to be done. They need safe housing, rehab, medical help, mental help. Addicts need a lot of help and the policy makers should be asking people what they need and not just making policies that just scratch the surface of the problem.
If addicts got that much help then it wouldn’t even be worth it to not be a addict
@@ebeneZr of course everyone needs access to these thing but that’s not what the discussion is about.
If they're just selling the safe supply on the black market and using the money to buy illegal drugs then obviously that is a bad thing. The "safe" supply they're giving out is even more potent than oxycontin and being sold to anyone.
Why do bleeding heart Liberals all think junkies want housing? Housing comes with rules. Junkies dont want rules, they want opiates.
@@jacksonjacob7791 the “safe” supply isn’t more potent then what they can get on the street. If it was, they wouldn’t be selling it.
The real issue is the decriminalization of crime. Not drugs
Wonder how long it will be before shoplifting is legalized?.....
Or murder?
Let’s pray for Canada and BC! Omg it’s the end of days down there. Gosh everyone’s getting murdered robbed! Geez not even Mexico. Maybe the cartels are doing a better job at keeping Mexico safer than Canada.
You don't know what you're talking about.
Yes, in fact, I moved from Mexico to Canada. Hoping here was a safer place to live, we think about Canada as the "Switzerland of North America".
I was very surprised to see what's happening in here, I currently live in Victoria BC and I'm moving right away from this province next month.
Lots of stabbings in downtown Victoria lately, attacks, robberies, a lot of addicts giving a sketchy panorama in the streets...
I have to admit I was kind of disappointed when I came to work here, I hope it's better in my new province. 🙌
This is really puzzling. If a person is in pain - should not the medical system be able to help? Why do they have to rely on the dealers on the street? The gymnast lady wants to go out of the situation but how? On the other side - it would be nice to provide evidence that providing the drugs help people leave them for good. And that the total number of user decrease. Otherwise - the public is left to trust (without evidence) because what we see on the street - increased usage and dependency points to a different conclusion.
The testimony of the lady is heartbreaking. At the same time - what citizens observe is that the problem is getting worse. So - if what is being done is "right" how come things are getting "worse".
Whether or not people leave the drug is never brought up because it's not a consideration by law makers. They can't give proof to the affect you want because no proof exists.
The entire argument is dependent on the idea that safe supply saves lives because the user is less likely to die from a bad hit, or that users might put themselves in less dangerous situations to get the drug- it's not based on the idea that their dependency is lessened.
There are more people on drugs daily, and easy access does not lessen ODs.
@@mkyasha So if I am understanding correctly - all the efforts are made to save (or accommodate) "x" number of people but at the expense "y" number of people (new addicts). Since "y" increases more rapidly (judging from the current situation on the streets) and "y" eventually becomes "x" - that is - completely dependent - then we should expect that given the current trajectory the percentage of people dependent on drugs (as part of the total population) would increase (most likely significantly). And if the remaining population is overpowered by the need of the "x" and "y" - they will likely leave. Or - even if they do not - they most likely won't be able to support the needs of "x" and "y". Since "x" and "y" can't work to feed the need caused by the drugs (and the government has to provide for them) but the rest of the population is significantly diminished or have left - then this city or province or a country is destined to be ruled by anarchy. How can this be considered as a solution? We can see one of the points in this documentary. Is it not worth it to see the other view point? "Canada is dying".
@@mkyasha Not to mention that the people they talked to said that the people who they were handing out the drugs to, were turning around and selling them to other's, so that they could buy fentanyl, so doesn't that defeat the purpose of the safe supply? And yet the government won't cover the cost of my lidocaine pain infusions at $125/month, so that I DON'T become addicted to hard drugs
The medical system is terrible for pain management in Canada
@@vancouverbluesea While I feel like your comment above is written in a way that is likely overcomplicated, you're correct. Consideration is being given to existing addicts, and the potential for new addicts is being ignored. But in addition to this, existing addicts are also going to OD more because they just literally have more access to drugs, and those drugs in some cases are stronger.
I doubt it would ever get to the point that the non addict population will be "overrun", but they will get fed up, for sure.
Best reporter in Vancouver by a long mile. Keep up the good work!
'I don't drink, I dont smike cigarettes, I *only* smole fentanyl'
Maybe destigmatization and saying doing hard drugs is no big deal isnt the solution hmm.
BC is like San francisco of the north, JT should move there.
Until Recovery is part of harm reduction, it wont change a thing. People in recovery need support too. And open crack dens operating as shelters by non-profits profitering off addiction need to end.
Finally! The "Process of Natural Selection" gets a barrier removed!
Let it do its work......
I've seen independent TH-cam creators do better journalism.
I wonder why all the protections are being focused on and given to the drug users while the public is almost not in the picture?
This government must protect the general public.
those who think harm reduction doesn't work aren't wrong, it just doesn't work as a sole solution, it's meant to work alongside other strategies. Decriminalization is not a monolithic policy towards fixing addiction. Harm reduction is something the local community is able to implement with little spending, so its extra effective for dollars spent. BUT housing solutions are necessary if we expect these people to GET BETTER
How will housing solutions help people stop taking fentanly?
Decriminalized the possession of small amounts of certain drugs, has not worked anywhere.
Doing the same thing, yet expecting different results is the definintion of insanity.
dumbest idea by an apologist mindset govt that has given up on doing the tough but correct approach... to get rid of them for good and not give them any temptation.. zero tolerance to drugs including pot, etc
Free drugs 😂 I want free beer if they get free drugs. WTH my taxes need to be used for better healthcare and housing
What is going to Happen when they all need Hospital Care & there is Nothing for anyone. We as Canadians Have Gone way to Far on this Experiment, Very Cruel even for a Liberal to do this.
Robert Lehman and what's disappointing to realize is that people with medical emergencies or others who should be prioritized at the hospital will have to deal with these drug users and criminals in the same hospital getting top priority for care because the hospital security and staff want to get them in and out of there as soon as possible as to not cause a scene. This will waste precious time and resources for people who need it. They need to make more of these medical facilities and even hospital for drug users and others with mental health issues who at times pose a danger and safety issues where there should not be any. A hospital should feel like a safe space to go
Especially considering all those who are vulnerable and seeking medical attention
What is going to happen if there is a natural disaster like an earthquake and the drug supply is not available?
Decriminalization of drugs is one thing supplying drugs is another.
Maybe make it illegal to use outside of a zone and in public. No driver's licenses until doctor cleared. Seriously illegal to sell for profit. The truth is most drug users cannot function well in society. Or it is just a matter of time before they cause an issue. If anyone wants help there should be a part of the zone that is for recovery.
Medical dependence is a different matter and should be managed in a hospital type asylum. There are plenty of prescription drug addicts. That needs addressing.
The explanation of bad mix was interesting information.
It is a dumb choice though, for sure. No one is immune to addiction if they try drugs. Normalizing or turning a blind eye won't be good for youth. They will think "eh....what can happen? I'm young. Everyone else does it. I don't want to miss out."
Let's show the results rather than the party idea of "isn't it cool" or the media idea of "I am in so much pain...isn't it tragic and dramatic?"
Violent drug users are a different matter entirely. They need jail and separated.
Definitely not a good idea!!! What are they thinking?
As a recovering addict whos been on Methadone for 4 years I think this is a terrible idea.
As a lifetime NDP supporter I can say because of these types of decisions I’ll never vote NDP ever again and I’m not alone on that.
Glad drugs are illegal in Australia. You don't see such mass of homelessness. Maybe a person or two in a park
4:04 this man said the government should give the drug dealers better cook equipment to keep the death rate down 😂😂😂🤔
I thought the same thing " the government should provide proper equipment for the people who a mixing the drugs up" yikes, totally ridiculous clown world.
What a joke. What a mess.
Safe supply is not a medical term; it's a political one.
Lmao that one guy is out of his mind 😂 wants the government to give tax dollars to their heroin dealers because the dealers know what kind of heroin and fentanyl they like. Maybe another fifteen years Canada will be at that point.
No drugs. Period.
Free drugs and liquor foe all adults and wider roads
No ignorance.Period.
@@elfpower8300
ET Himself
8 hours ago
Free drugs and liquor foe all adults and wider roads
Cool idea. So, we ban alcohol, nicotine, caffeine, cannabis, cocaine, everything…. Or do you not think alcohol and nicotine are drugs?
@@mdf3006 you’re invited.check your ignorance at the door,though,thanks.
This "free drugs, safe supply" idea is 100% fucked.
When the CBC gets defunded, I hope Lien goes independent. Her reporting is always tight.
So you like CBC reporters and the work they do, but think CBC should be defunded…. You know, without the CBC, stories about the DTES would only be done from the perspective of business owners and the rich. Defunding the CBC would guarantee that ALL media would be run by the rich. Sure CBC has it’s issues, but we need more than just the voice of the rich in media.
decriminalization was terrible idea. this just encourages drug addiction instead of accountability
Decriminalize drigs. Hell actually just hand em out too while banning the possession of narcan. Guarantee these degenerates take themselves out and stop being a drain on our resources.
The guys said “provide what drugs people want properly prepared in a clean environment. That will drive the death rate down“ 😳??
We don’t feed alcohol to alcoholics so I don’t see why we take this approach with drug addicts, it seems they just don’t care.
The government should give the stuff out for free. It would take the money away from the violent criminal dealer network and allow the government to directly influence user culture.
Amazing journalism, I’d watch hours of these videos
How do they get the money to buy drugs.
Theft, prostitution and welfare cheques financed by the taxpayers.
decriminalization - yes
but that should just mean that addicts dont get arrested and thrown in a jail
not that narco terrorists can then open the streets up to flood it with Fent
Sad, asking drug addicts what best for them vs what makes them happy is two different things
Just make the drugs free and strong and then everyone will stay asleep and you won’t have to see them
😂😂😂 seriously
And if they want to do uppers it’s free too but they have to do community service so they can put their energy to use for the city
You're in for a world of hurt. Where has it worked in the U.S. ?
I worked at B.C. Collateral for five years. For those that don't know, that was a major pawnbroker in the heart of the DTES. Through our clients I got a firsthand knowledge of the drug scene there. That is where I learned that these "drug addicts are people, like you and I, but with their own set of issues. I also learned about the people that prey on them down there. The dealers who will front drugs to girls and women. They then later force them into prostitution to pay off their drug debts. Then front them more drugs so that they can do the whole thing again. After a few cycles of that the women no longer care about what happens to them. Or the people who got hooked in the hospital, recovering from car accidents etc. After a couple of try's at getting them off the prescription meds our medical system just throws them onto the street to fend on their own. Or the mentally/emotionally challenged people down there who are just prey to the wolves on the street. Welfare Wednesday is known as Mardi Gras. That's where you will see three or four ambulances within a two block stretch dealing with overdoses, all day long. I've often half jokingly said that social services should just hand the welfare checks direct to the drug dealers and keep the victims out of the deal. Because that is basically what happens anyway with a lot of the people. I could write pages and pages about this. But basically it is a much more complex issue than the average person on the street realizes. There are many different players in this game, some obvious and some not so obvious. But it is a dangerous game with a high fatality rate. Unfortunately it is also a political game, with lawyers turned politicians using these peoples lives as bargaining chips. Sometimes they look as bad if not worse than the nastiest of dealers. Portugal set the model years ago by decriminalizing possession for all drugs. The improvements that this brought to that community are nothing short of phenomenal. Fewer addicts, fewer overdoses and lower crime rates are all part of what happened from that move. But our politicians still argue, make deals and play games with this. Why?
So many great points. Once they're addicted, without proper help, there is no way out and they're just prey to all those predators out there.
If they had other options, there would not be so many people out there being preyed upon and dying.
how about not using 🤔
Government should supply alcohol to alcoholics. Just an idea 💡.
2:55 - Provide clean dope to people? That's the root of the problem, dealers don't have access to what they need to make good dope? Lol.
thanks for interviewing the users. your doing great jounalism
8:20 why are her hand swollen? I’m genuinely curious
I dont think the government should be enabling drug addicts. We should be making certain that everyone who wants help kicking their habit has the resources and the knowledge of those resourrces to straighten out their lives.