OTTAWA – Cathy McLeod, Member of Parliament for Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo, seconded a Private Member’s Bill this week which will serve as an important measure in the fight against the opioid crisis.
Bill C-338, introduced by Bob Saroya, will increase sentences for offences related to the importing and exporting of controlled drugs and substances, including methamphetamines, ecstasy, fentanyl and W-18.
“The opioid crisis needs a multi-pronged approach to tackle this issue. Not only is it a public health emergency, but also a criminal justice issue,” said McLeod. “Those that import and export drugs and substances must be brought to justice and should encounter increased mandatory minimum sentences.”
“What became very apparent during the debate on this Bill, was the Liberal government’s view that illegal drugs and substances are only a health concern and not a criminal justice issue,” stated McLeod. “This government should be targeting gangs and other criminal organizations by introducing tougher sentences for those who exploit the addictions of others for personal profit.”
“The government is not even willing to consider a two year mandatory minimum sentence for those who knowingly put fentanyl into street drugs and sell it to our children,” said McLeod.
“The fact that the Liberals will not support this bill is absolutely shameful,” concluded McLeod.
