St. John’s West MHA Keith White has presented a petition in the House of Assembly seeking action on open drug use and discarded needles.
White says the problem has become a matter of public health and community safety.
In August, St. John’s Mayor Danny Breen wrote the provincial and federal governments seeking help. Breen indicated at the time that residents no longer feel safe or secure. He sought a collaborative approach to the proliferation of open drug use in the capital.
The Gathering Place has since initiated a pilot program whereby teams of patrons fan out across the city to clean up needles and other refuse.
White says government campaigned on safer communities and must live up to that promise by working with the city on the issue.
“Residents have, rightfully so, raised legitimate concerns about needles being found in public spaces. This is a matter of public health, community safety, and personal responsibility,” he said in the House of Assembly.
“I truly recognize the complex challenges associated with substance use, but wish to be clear that our public spaces must be safe and accessible for everyone. The government campaigned recently on making communities safer for all of us. This petition is an opportunity to turn that commitment into meaningful action.”
