Bachrach calls on feds to support detox and treatment in the Northwest

“Liberal inaction means people who are struggling with substances often can't access the help they need, when they need it,” said Bachrach. “Families in our region deserve concerted federal action and I'll keep pushing until that happens.”

OTTAWA– On Friday, NDP MP Taylor Bachrach (Skeena-Bulkley Valley) rose in the House of Commons to urge the government to do more to help First Nations in northern B.C. amid the toxic drug crisis.

Currently, many northern residents are having to travel to the lower mainland to receive treatment services. Lack of transportation and other barriers mean accessing such services is exceedingly difficult.

The Northern First Nations Alliance has proposed a culturally safe detox, treatment and recovery center in the Terrace area. Bachrach coordinated a meeting between the Alliance and the minister of Addictions and Mental Health in May 2023 to request federal support, yet to date there has been no substantive response.

“Liberal inaction means people who are struggling with substances often can't access the help they need, when they need it,” said Bachrach. “Families in our region deserve concerted federal action and I'll keep pushing until that happens.”