Statement from MP Michelle Ferreri on International Overdose Awareness Day
August 31st, 2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Peterborough, ON— Michelle Ferreri, Member of Parliament for Peterborough—Kawartha, and Conservative Shadow Minister for Families, Children and Social Development released the following statement on International Overdose Awareness Day:
“Opioids don’t just destroy the lives of the people who abuse them; they destroy the lives of everyone in their orbit.
“Today is International Overdose Awareness Day – It is a day to remember those who have lost their lives to drug overdose and to acknowledge the grief of their loved ones. The day also aims to raise awareness about the risks of drug overdose and reduce the stigma associated with drug-related deaths.
“It is reported by Peterborough Public Health that, on average, a person dies from a drug poisoning every six days, and in the past 12 months, 72 people have died from drug poisonings. These numbers are a stark reminder of the ongoing opioid crisis impact on families, community, and the entire country.
“Right now, people are dying waiting to access help. The federal government must step up and invest in timely access to addiction, treatment, and recovery programs.
“The most compassionate thing we can do as legislators is make sure all Canadians have a route out of the cycle of addiction and on the path to recovery. “
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Media Contact:
Emily McCullough
emily.mccullough.484@parl.gc.ca
343-551-9252