Amendments would see fentanyl, methamphetamine, and hypodermic needles
The Prince Albert Police Service were encouraged by news of a recently introduced amendment to The Safe Public Spaces (Street Weapons) Act that would see fentanyl, methamphetamine, and hypodermic needles categorized as street weapons.
The provincial government introduced the amendment on Monday. The Prince Albert Police Service released a statement on Tuesday acknowledging the province’s intentions.
“While we have not yet had the opportunity to review the full legislative amendments, we are encouraged by the government’s commitment to strengthening public safety through legislative tools that address the harms associated with illicit drug use and the unsafe presence of potentially dangerous items in public spaces,” reads the statement.
“As a police service that continues to respond to the devastating consequences of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and drug-related street activity, we recognize the importance of ensuring that frontline officers have the appropriate legal framework to address emerging public safety concerns.”
In a press release, the provincial government said they were including fentanyl, hypodermic needles, and methamphetamine in the Act in recognition of the significant risk these items present to public safety.
Justice Minister and Attorney General Tim McLeod said the amendments are part of the government’s plan to protect communities from drug trafficking, production, transportation, and use.
The government expects the Act to pass during the Spring Legislative Sitting and come into force this summer. In addition to targeting the drug trade, the province believes the Act will help municipalities and First Nations regulate the possession, transportation, and storage of items that could be used as street weapons. The list includes large knives, like machetes, and bear spray.
“We are dedicated to creating safer communities for all Saskatchewan residents,” McLeod said in a press release. “This legislation represents a pivotal step in ensuring that public spaces remain places of enjoyment and comfort, free from intimidation, (and) violence caused by street weapons and illicit drugs.”
The province said the legislation would contain exemptions for individuals who use the items in their proper context, such as food preparation or protection from wildlife threats.
The Prince Albert Police Service acknowledged the exemptions in their statement.
“It is important that any legislation be clear, enforceable, and fair, with adequate guidance provided to those responsible for its implementation,” reads the statement.
“While we await the final wording of the amendments and related regulations, the Prince Albert Police Service supports the broader direction this legislation represents and remains committed to working collaboratively with the Province, municipalities, and Indigenous partners to enhance safety in our community.”
In a statement, a Saskatchewan NDP spokesperson said the party supports the amendment.
@kerr_jas • jason.kerr@paherald.sk.ca
