The B.C. government has announced it will expand involuntary care for those with mental health and addictions issues, and will open “highly secure” facilities to house people detained under the Mental Health Act throughout the province.
Premier David Eby announced Sunday that the government would open mental health units at correctional facilities throughout the province, as well as regional facilities that would provide long-term care and housing for those with mental health needs.
The first dedicated mental health unit will be set up at Surrey Pretrial Centre, according to the province. The first regional mental health facility will be built on the grounds of the Alouette Correctional Centre in Maple Ridge.
As part of his public safety pitch, one week before the official start of B.C.’s election period, Eby said the moves would help those with brain injuries, mental illnesses and severe addiction.
“We’re going to respond to people struggling …