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Patch 4 patch bill one step away

It’s now been more than a year since the last fentanyl death in North Bay.
2015 12 1 fentenyl patches north bay

A locally developed solution to curb the growing trend of fentanyl abuse is one step away from becoming law in Ontario, Nipissing MPP Vic Fedeli said today.

Fedeli’s Private Members’ Bill, Bill 33, the Safeguarding Our Communities Act, will receive Third and Final Reading in the Legislature Monday, December 7.

The bill incorporates the Patch 4 Patch program, which has now been implemented in or is in the process of being implemented in 45 Ontario communities. 

“It’s my firm belief this bill can save lives.  It’s now been more than a year since the last fentanyl death in North Bay.  This is indeed a victory considering that since 2007, the city was averaging two such deaths a year,” Fedeli said.

“Thanks to all the local partners, Patch 4 Patch is working, and I believe it will be even more effective once it becomes a province-wide law.”

The program and Fedeli’s bill were highlighted this past summer in a Maclean’s magazine feature on the growth of the fentanyl problem across the country. (http://www.macleans.ca/society/health/fentanyl-the-king-of-all-opiates-and-a-killer-drug-crisis/)

“I’m looking forward to receiving all-party support on Third Reading, and for the Patch 4 Patch program to help save lives right across the province.”