NDP promises involuntary care centre for Okanagan

The BC N-D-P is promising up to $90-million for involuntary mental health and addictions care in the South Okanagan.

With eight days until the provincial general election, the party said it would establish a new care facility at the Okanagan Correctional Centre in Oliver for people facing severe mental health and addiction challenges, as well as complex brain injuries.

The New Democrats said the goal is to provide specialized treatment for people who may be unable to seek help themselves.

Kelowna mayoral candidate and incumbent Tom Dyas and other regional leaders have been advocating the provincial government for an involuntary care centre to be set up at the underused correctional facility.

In a statement Friday, on the eve of general voting day for the municipal elections, Dyas said a promise is only the first step.

“Today’s announcement shows that when the Okanagan speaks with one voice, the Province listens. Now I’m asking every party to put its name on this commitment, so it gets advanced regardless of the outcome on October 24. I’ll work with whoever forms government to make sure it happens, and makes a real difference in Kelowna,” Dyas said.

The NDP commitment builds on existing involuntary care centres in Surrey and Maple Ridge, with additional facilities planned elsewhere in BC.

The commitment comes as the New Democrats point to 860 addiction treatment beds added since 2017, along with expanded youth services through Foundry centres, including in Kelowna, Penticton and Vernon.

The proposal is part of the N-D-P’s broader plan to expand access to both voluntary and involuntary treatment across BC.

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