National Anti-Drug Strategy
for safer and healthier communities
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Message from the Ministers International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking – June 26, 2008
As the world marks the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime’s International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the Government of Canada remains committed to taking action against illicit drugs because of their devastating impact on individuals, families, communities and society as a whole.
In October 2007, the Government launched its National Anti-Drug Strategy (NADS). The Strategy is aimed at ensuring safer and healthier communities by taking action in three priority areas: prevention, treatment and enforcement.
Prevention
Our government’s approach is balanced; it is tough on crime but compassionate toward those addicted to illicit drugs. As part of its prevention action plan, the Government of Canada has announced $7 million to help communities tackle the increase of drug use among our young people, and launched a multi-year campaign of radio, print and television advertisements to inform Canadians about the dangers and negative effects of illicit drugs.
Treatment
Through the treatment action plan, the Government of Canada has announced $140 million to date to help support the treatment and rehabilitation of those battling addictions to illicit drugs. This money is available for provinces, territories and communities to develop projects and strategies to promote the health and well-being of Canadians.
Enforcement
Under its enforcement plan, the Government of Canada has introduced legislation that would provide mandatory minimum sentences for those convicted of serious drug crimes. Mandatory minimum sentences make our communities safer and send a strong message to criminals: serious drug crime will mean serious time.
We have also invested funds for enforcing drug laws, including more than $3 million to help the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) combat the cross-border flow of illicit drugs and precursor chemicals.
In order to help to stem and seize the flow of illicit drug-related proceeds of crime generated by organized crime, our Government has also enhanced the RCMP’s ability to target illegal drug producers, such as grow ops and meth labs, and make our communities safer.
The Government of Canada will continue to work with various levels of government, community groups, non-governmental organizations and international partners as we implement the National Anti-Drug Strategy and work towards a safer, healthier Canada.
