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Jun 1, 2022 3:22 PM - THE CANADIAN PRESS

Kenney slams Ottawa's decision to decriminalize certain drugs in BC

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Kenney slams Ottawa's decision to decriminalize certain drugs in BC (Photo: The Canadian Press)

Premier Jason Kenney says Ottawa's decision to decriminalize possession of small amounts of illegal drugs in British Columbia will likely result in a dramatic increase in drug use, violence, trafficking and addiction.

Under the program, adults in British Columbia who possess up to 2.5 grams of illicit drugs for personal use will not be arrested or charged starting early next year.

It's part of the province's request for an exemption from Canada's drug laws following a record number of overdose deaths. Kenney says his government supports dealing with addiction as a health-care issue while keeping communities safe. Kenney says other provinces should have been consulted first, particularly next door in Alberta.

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