Joint Statement on The Compassionate Intervention Act and the state of voluntary care in Saskatchewan
Joint statement on The Compassionate Intervention Act and the state of voluntary care in Saskatchewan
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
UPDATED AT 2:51 P.M on May 6, 2026
The John Howard Society of Saskatchewan provides supports to those involved in or affected by the criminal justice system. We do not specialize in addictions care, but many of the clients we serve live with addiction.
In light of our mandate and experience, JHSS, along with partner organizations, has concerns about the provincial government’s legislation, The Compassionate Intervention Act, which was passed on May 5.
We echo the concerns of the Saskatchewan Medical Association and the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Saskatchewan about how a person’s capacity will be assessed once they are brought to a recovery assessment centre. It remains unclear whether a qualified psychologist will be doing the assessment or whether 24 hours, during which a person might be in deep psychosis, is an appropriate window of time to gauge a person’s full ability to make their own decisions.
If not handled correctly, we believe this legislation could infringe on individuals’ Charter rights since people who have not committed a crime will be detained against their will.
In speaking with experts, peer organizations from across Canada, staff and clients, many that have first-hand experience with addictions understand that recovery only works when those faced with addiction choose to participate.
We believe that the government’s focus should be on strengthening voluntary treatment.
Saskatchewan already enacts “forced treatment” in the form of our correctional facilities. Before more people who struggle with addiction are detained against their will, the province should ensure those who struggle with addictions in prison receive the help they need, both inside and when they begin to reintegrate into their communities.
Lastly, JHSS is concerned about the safety of those released after being involuntarily held. People released from prison are at a higher risk of overdosing, due to their decreased tolerance levels. If the proposed Act operates in this manner, individuals detained due to this legislation may be at significant risk.
JHSS and its partners therefore call on the provincial government to commit to the following:
- Respect everyone’s Charter rights, including the right not to be arbitrarily detained or imprisoned, and the right to life, liberty and security.
- Invest in voluntary treatment first. We know there are people who want help but can’t get it.
- Offer more mental health and addictions treatment to people who are already incarcerated, versus incarcerating more people who need more mental health and addictions treatment.
- Support people after they are released from prison/involuntary treatment or assessment.
Shawn Fraser Grace Gardner
CEO Public Legal Counsel
John Howard Society of Saskatchewan John Howard Society of Saskatchewan
Chantelle Johnson
Executive Director
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Nicole Obrigavitch
Executive Director
Elizabeth Fry Society of Saskatchewan
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