Overdose crisis: B.C. auditor releases reports on prevention, safe supply [Video]

An audit of two harm-reduction programs meant to reduce toxic drug-related deaths in B.C. found the initiatives “weren’t effectively implemented.”

Auditor General Michael Pickup released his findings Tuesday, after reviewing overdose prevention and supervised consumption sites in the province, as well as B.C.’s prescribed safer supply program.

“Many thousands of people in B.C. are grieving the losses of family and friends from the toxic drug supply,” Pickup said in a statement. “The crisis is also an immense challenge for those working to provide care and support for people who use substances. My team and I have a deep sense of empathy for everyone who has been touched by this continuing tragedy.”

B.C. has just under 50 overdose prevention sites, and the BC Coroners Service says there has been one death in the province at a site this year.

While Pickup’s review of the sites found ministries monitored their operational performance, …