Government of Saskatchewan ministries, Crown corporations and organizations are working to minimize the impacts of the postal service disruption.

Les ministères, les sociétés d’État et les organismes du gouvernement de la Saskatchewan travaillent à réduire au minimum les répercussions de l’interruption des services postaux.

Google Translate Disclaimer

A number of pages on the Government of Saskatchewan's website have been professionally translated in French. These translations are identified by a yellow box in the right or left rail that resembles the link below. The home page for French-language content on this site can be found at:

Renseignements en Français

Where an official translation is not available, Google™ Translate can be used. Google™ Translate is a free online language translation service that can translate text and web pages into different languages. Translations are made available to increase access to Government of Saskatchewan content for populations whose first language is not English.

Software-based translations do not approach the fluency of a native speaker or possess the skill of a professional translator. The translation should not be considered exact, and may include incorrect or offensive language. The Government of Saskatchewan does not warrant the accuracy, reliability or timeliness of any information translated by this system. Some files or items cannot be translated, including graphs, photos and other file formats such as portable document formats (PDFs).

Any person or entities that rely on information obtained from the system does so at his or her own risk. Government of Saskatchewan is not responsible for any damage or issues that may possibly result from using translated website content. If you have any questions about Google™ Translate, please visit: Google™ Translate FAQs.

Saskatchewan Introduces Compassionate Intervention Legislation for Addictions Treatment

Released on December 5, 2025

The Government of Saskatchewan has introduced legislation to support people with severe addictions who are not capable of seeking help despite serious health and safety risks.

The Compassionate Intervention Act would allow for involuntary addictions treatment.

"Individuals struggling with addiction need our support on their path to recovery," Mental Health and Addictions Minister Lori Carr said. "They need a safe space, support and compassionate intervention. We are focused on meaningful long-term recovery for Saskatchewan residents."

"By investing in compassionate care for those struggling with severe addiction, we are not only saving lives, but we are strengthening families, communities, and the future of our province," Justice Minister and Attorney General, Tim McLeod, K.C. said. "Every person deserves the chance to heal, rebuild and thrive."

Currently, addictions treatment for adults in Saskatchewan requires voluntary participation. Existing legislation does not support addiction intervention.

Compassionate intervention is grounded in the Government of Saskatchewan's commitment to a Recovery-Oriented System of Care. It would include strict criteria for entering someone into involuntary treatment. 

The proposed model would allow family members to request treatment for a loved one through the court. Law enforcement can also intervene if a person’s substance use is putting their own life or the lives of others at serious risk.

Individuals may only be brought to a Compassionate Intervention Assessment Centre by police or peace officer, referred by a medical professional, or through a judge’s warrant.

"I am hopeful that the new legislation will change lives and get people on the road to recovery," Saskatoon Tribal Chief Mark Arcand said. "This is about treating the addiction, the illness, for those who are struggling and can't ask for help. I appreciate that involuntary treatment will be done in a culturally responsive way to support individuals on their health journey. "

The Government of Saskatchewan will be seeking feedback from stakeholders, partners, and the public on how the legislation should be implemented. Information will be available at saskatchewan.ca/compassionate-intervention.

-30-

For more information, contact:

Media
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083
Email: media@health.gov.sk.ca

Kerri Ward-Davis
Justice
Regina
Phone: 303-787-8621
Email: jumedia@gov.sk.ca

We need your feedback to improve saskatchewan.ca. Help us improve