Alberta has announced that supervised drug consumption services in Calgary and Lethbridge will close as part of a broader transition toward treatment and recovery based addiction services.
Calgary Site Scheduled to Close in June
The supervised consumption site located at Sheldon M. Chumir Health Centre is expected to shut down by the end of June.
Mobile Service in Lethbridge Also Ending
A mobile overdose prevention unit operating in Lethbridge will close under the same timeline.
Government Promises Replacement Supports
Provincial officials say funding from the two sites will move into expanded treatment and withdrawal services.
New Withdrawal Beds Planned in Calgary
Health planners say Calgary will receive between 30 and 40 additional withdrawal management beds.
Lethbridge to Receive New Services
Lethbridge is expected to receive:
- 10 additional withdrawal beds
- a new addiction medicine clinic
Ministers Defend Recovery Approach
Mike Ellis said people will continue receiving support through new service models.
Government Says Policy Reflects New Direction
Rick Wilson described the closures as part of Alberta’s long term recovery strategy.
Historic Calgary Site Opened During Opioid Crisis
The Calgary supervised consumption location began operating in 2017 during the height of the opioid emergency.
Several Sites Already Closed
Previous closures have already taken place in:
- Red Deer
- Edmonton hospital area
Three Sites Remain in Alberta
After these closures, remaining services will continue in:
- two locations in Edmonton
- one mobile service in Grande Prairie
Experts Raise Concern Over Public Safety
Some health researchers argue overdose risks remain significant despite recent reductions in fatalities.
Concerns Over Public Drug Use
Public health experts warn that drug use may shift into public areas after indoor services close.
Edmonton Closures Not Immediate
The province says there are currently no immediate plans to shut Edmonton locations.
Calgary Mayor Responds Carefully
Jeromy Farkas described the change as a major transition for city addiction response.
Red Deer Experience Influences Debate
A recent provincial study examining the Red Deer closure has become part of the policy discussion.
Legal Questions Continue
Court proceedings linked to the Red Deer site closure remain active and could influence future legal interpretation.
Policy Debate Likely to Continue
The closures are expected to remain a major topic across health, law and municipal governance discussions in Alberta.
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