Nova Scotia not considering decriminalizing small possession of illicit drugs: Premier

Nova Scotia's premier says the province is currently not considering following British Columbia's lead in decriminalizing small possession of illicit drugs.

Tim Houston's comments come after the Trudeau government granted an exemption to B.C. to decriminalize a small amount of hard drugs in an effort to curb its overdose crisis.

Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Premier Houston said it is something the province is not considering at this time.

“We're very focused on supporting those with addictions and needs and we also have the Office of Addictions and Mental Health, so it's certainly a main focus of ours to support those Nova Scotians that need it,” he said. “But the approach that B.C. is taking, we'll watch and see what unfolds in that province, but it's not something we're considering right now.”

Houston went on to say different provinces have different issues, adding they'll keep an eye on how things play out in British Columbia.

“Certainly, different provinces have different issues, even within a province,” said Houston. “So we'll work with Minister Comer in Addictions and Mental Health to make sure we have appropriate programs there. But the step that B.C. has taken, we'll watch and see the impact that that has in their province, but it's just not something that's on our radar.” 

Earlier this week, the House of Commons voted against an NDP bill to expand drug decriminalization across the country.