2025
Alberta’s proposed involuntary treatment legislation a threat to public health
February 27, 2025
The Canadian Public Health Association (CPHA) expresses deep concern over the Government of Alberta’s proposed amendments to the Mental Health Act and the creation of an addiction treatment order. These changes, if enacted, would significantly expand the ability to impose involuntary treatment on individuals, including not only those with substance use disorders but anyone who uses substances. CPHA urges the Alberta government to abandon this coercive and ineffective approach and instead…
CPHA Granted Intervenor Status in Legal Challenge to Ontario’s Bill 212
February 25, 2025
The Canadian Public Health Association (CPHA) is pleased to announce that we have been granted intervenor status in the legal challenge against Bill 212, the Reducing Gridlock, Saving You Time Act, 2024. This legislation mandates the removal of protected bike lanes in Toronto and grants the Province of Ontario the power to block future bike lane projects, undermining public health, road safety, and municipal decision-making.
Canadian Public Health Association Statement on U.S. Tariffs on Canadian Products
February 3, 2025
The Canadian Public Health Association (CPHA) expresses grave concern over the potential public health implications of the United States’ decision to impose tariffs on Canadian products. Trade policies directly impact the social and economic determinants of health, including employment, income security, and the affordability of essential goods such as food and medications.
Trade disruptions resulting from tariffs can disproportionately affect structurally disadvantaged populations by increasing the cost of living and limiting access to necessary goods. Tariffs on food products,…
CPHA Calls for Urgent Public Health Action to Address Canada’s Toxic Drug Crisis
January 28, 2025
The Canadian Public Health Association (CPHA) has released a new position statement, Public Health Approaches to the Toxic Drug Crisis, urging all levels of government to take immediate, evidence-based action to curb preventable deaths caused by toxic drug poisoning.
As toxic drug deaths continue to devastate communities across Canada, CPHA’s position statement outlines a comprehensive, public health-centered response that…
2024
Canada’s Climate Health Crisis: The Urgent Call for Action from Health Leaders
November 1, 2024
Canada is facing a critical moment in its climate and health future, with extreme weather events and food systems driving an unprecedented health burden. The Lancet Countdown’s 2024 Policy Priorities for Canada lays out a roadmap for urgent action that policymakers can no longer afford to ignore. From health systems buckling under the pressure of extreme heat waves to deadly diets fueled by unsustainable practices, this report sounds the alarm – and provides solutions.
Published today by the
Health Organizations Warn Supervised Consumption Site Closures Will Increase HIV and Hepatitis Transmission, Call on Ontario Government to Reverse Decision
October 16, 2024
In an open letter sent to the Minister of Health today, public health leaders, HIV and hepatitis organizations and service providers called on the Government of Ontario to reverse the recent decision to shutter supervised consumption sites (SCS) and restrict harm reduction services. Signatories warn these actions will significantly increase the risk of viral and bacterial disease transmission, further straining Ontario’s already…
Statement from the Canadian Public Health Association on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation 2024
September 30, 2024
Trigger warning: The information and experiences discussed in this statement may cause trauma triggered by memories of past abuse and deep intergenerational impacts. The Hope for Wellness Help Line offers immediate help to all Indigenous Peoples across Canada. It is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call the toll-free Help Line at 1-855-242-3310 or connect to the online chat at www.hopeforwellness.ca.
On this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation,…
Dead people don’t need recovery beds: Ontario’s closure of ten supervised consumption facilities will result in more toxic drug deaths
August 21, 2024
The Canadian Public Health Association (CPHA) is raising serious concerns over the Ontario government’s recent announcement to ban supervised consumption sites within 200 metres of schools and daycares and the proposed legislation prohibiting any new supervised consumption facilities and the participation in safer supply programs.
“Each of the ten supervised consumption facilities slated for closure have saved hundreds of lives by providing interventions after clients consumed tainted drugs,” said Ian Culbert, CPHA’s executive director. “While the province’s future…
Celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day 2024
June 21, 2024
On this National Indigenous Peoples Day, the Canadian Public Health Association (CPHA) celebrates and honors the rich cultures, traditions, and contributions of the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. Today, we acknowledge the deep-rooted histories and enduring resilience of Indigenous communities, while also recognizing the ongoing challenges they face due to systemic racism.
The ongoing legacy of colonialism, including the devastating effects of residential schools, forced displacement, and assimilation policies, continues to influence the health and well-being of…
Canadian Public Health Association condemns Ontario’s expansion of alcohol sales
May 24, 2024
The Canadian Public Health Association expresses concern and disapproval over the recent announcement by the Ontario government regarding the expansion of alcohol sales to include convenience stores, grocery stores, and big-box stores.
This decision is alarming in light of the extensive evidence on the public health risks associated with increased alcohol availability. It comes from a…