Ford to detail legislation aimed at dismantling encampments, punishing public drug use

Ontario Premier Doug Ford is set to make a significant announcement on Thursday regarding new legislation aimed at addressing the issue of homeless encampments and public drug use. The news conference is scheduled for 10 a.m. ET at Queen’s Park, where Ford will be accompanied by several cabinet ministers, including the minister of health, minister of municipal affairs and housing, the attorney and solicitor generals, and the associate minister of mental health and addictions.

In a letter sent to more than a dozen mayors last week, Ford outlined his plans for tough new legislation that would provide municipalities with the necessary tools and funding to clear homeless encampments. The legislation would also grant police more authority to enforce a ban on public drug use, along with imposing stricter penalties on individuals who repeatedly violate the law.

Ford also mentioned his willingness to use the notwithstanding clause, a controversial legislative tool that allows the government to override certain sections of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, if the courts interfere with the implementation of the new provisions by municipalities.

The mayors had previously requested Ford to strengthen involuntary addiction treatment laws and to intervene in court cases where municipalities are seeking to clear encampments. They also asked for laws to be enhanced to allow for arrests and imprisonment of repeat trespassers.

While some mayors welcomed Ford’s promise to use the notwithstanding clause to protect the legislation, others, including the mayors of Toronto and Hamilton, have publicly opposed the measure.

The issue of homelessness and encampments has become increasingly prevalent during Ford’s tenure, with tent cities appearing in municipalities of all sizes across Ontario. According to the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, there were approximately 1,400 encampments throughout the province in 2023. Shelters are at full capacity, with around 12,000 individuals in Toronto’s shelter system alone.

Critics from opposition parties at Queen’s Park have accused Ford and his government of neglecting to construct new housing and failing to assist municipalities in expanding shelter capacity.

The upcoming announcement by Premier Ford is anticipated to have a significant impact on the homeless population and public safety in Ontario. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.