Kelowna-Mission MLA Gavin Dew has asked the province to fast track an involuntary care facility for the Okanagan.
“For years municipalities and community groups in the Okanagan have been forced to pick up the slack and the blame for this government’s failed addiction and mental health policies,” Dew said during Question Period in the B.C. Legislature on May 1.
Dew added that there is a regional consensus for the need of a facility such as the Red Fish Healing Centre.
“Which is a proven model to provide mandatory compassionate care for people in need.”
Red Fish Centre, located in Coquitlam, is a 105-bed facility that treats individuals with severe substance use and mental health issues. Individuals may be admitted voluntarily, or involuntarily under BC’s Mental Health Act.
“But people in desperate need are still waiting, and our communities are still bearing the brunt of it,” Dew pointed out. “Will the premier commit today to fast-track this project?”
Health Minister Josie Osborne said the province has made the commitment to expand services.
“To ensure that people get the care they need, not just that type of specialize care (Red Fish), but all through the continuum of care that is needed. We are not shying away from this.”
In September 2024, Kelowna Mayor Tom Dyas joined mayors from 10 other municipalities demanding action from the federal government to tackle public safety and the mental health and addictions crisis.
The coalition outlined three priorities, including provincial mandatory care with federal support. Also in Sept., Premier David Eby announced the NDP will open facilities (over 400 beds) to provide involuntary care under the Mental Health Act for those with severe addictions who are mentally ill and have sustained a brain injury.
