The B-C Coroners Service says toxic illicit drugs killed 206 people last month, raising the number of overdose deaths so far this year to 814.
Premier David Eby says the latest numbers are "profoundly troubling" and the government's aims of helping people get addiction treatment are up against the spectre of deadly illicit drugs circulating in communities.
Elenore Sturko, Opposition B-C United mental health and addictions critic, says she wants the government to release more data about its drug supply and addiction treatment policies to help show what does and doesn't work.
🧵 There is so much to say today, but so much more that needs to be done. The unending loss of life to overdose in B.C. is heartbreaking and, the half-measures being taken are nowhere near comprehensive enough to meaningfully save lives. #bcpoli
— Elenore Sturko (@elenoresturko) May 18, 2023
The Coroners Service report says fentanyl is present in about eight of every 10 deaths, almost always in combination with other substances.
