Prairie Harm Reduction (PHR), which operates Saskatoon's only supervised safe consumption site, has had its federal exemption suspended by Health Canada. The suspension, effective March 26, means the site can no longer offer supervised consumption services. However, the PHR drop-in center will remain open, continuing to provide other services.
The decision by Health Canada follows the recent discovery of a "significant financial shortfall" within PHR. Last week, the board of directors terminated the employment of its executive director, Kayla DeMong, though they stated there was no evidence of fraud or theft. The board indicated that financial management had fallen short of expectations. PHR stated that the suspension was "unfortunate, but not unexpected," and that they are cooperating fully with Health Canada to address their concerns.
PHR is working with external financial experts to conduct a detailed review of its financial reporting and current financial status, with a preliminary report expected in early April. In the interim, Emmanuelle (Em) Morin, former executive director of AIDS Saskatoon, has been appointed as a transitional support specialist to oversee day-to-day operations.
The suspension raises concerns about the availability of safe consumption services in Saskatoon, particularly given the ongoing opioid crisis in Saskatchewan. PHR is encouraging donations through CanadaHelps to help keep its doors open and continue offering services in Saskatoon. The organization said it is actively working to provide the information requested by Health Canada so that the suspension may be lifted as soon as possible.
