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6mo ago

Ontario Mayors Urge Provincial Action on Mental Health and Homelessness

Mayors of Ontario's largest cities call for a review of health care laws and increased support to address the opioid crisis and rising homelessness.

A hospital bed is seen during simulation training at St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto on Tuesday, August 13, 2019. Researchers say there was "no unusual change" in the rate of preterm or stillbirths in Ontario during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to previous years stretching back to 2002. THE CANADIAN PRESS/ Tijana Martin
A person who experienced homelessness sits with their belongings as city workers move to clear an encampment on Toronto's Bay Street on May 15, 2020.

Overview

  • Ontario Big City Mayors are pressing the province to review outdated mental health and health care consent laws to better address current crises.
  • The mayors are advocating for legislation against public drug use and aggressive trespassing to curb social disorder in urban areas.
  • Despite calls for involuntary treatment, the mayors have not reached a consensus and seek expert input on mandatory treatment laws.
  • With nearly 2,600 opioid-related deaths last year, the mayors demand immediate provincial and federal intervention for addiction and homelessness support.
  • Mayors emphasize the need for expanded treatment programs and supportive housing, highlighting the urgency of the situation across Ontario.