B.C. to open 'highly secure' involuntary care facilities

B.C. will be opening “highly secure facilities” for people with addiction and mental health issues in the province, officials said Sunday.

B.C. will be opening “highly secure facilities” for people with addiction and mental health issues in the province, officials said Sunday.

The announcement came at a Sunday news conference with the premier, the attorney general, Vancouver’s mayor and representatives from two First Nations.

“All of the facilities will provide involuntary care under the B.C. Mental Health Act for people certified as requiring that care,” a news release accompanying the announcement said.

In addition to dedicated, stand-alone facilities, the province will also be establishing “secure treatment” within B.C. correctional facilities.

“People with addiction challenges, brain injuries and mental-health issues need compassionate care and direct and assertive intervention to help them stabilize and rebuild a meaningful life,” David Eby said in a statement.

“This announcement is the beginning of a new phase of our response to the addiction crisis."

This is a developing story and will be updated.