Critics call for more frontline overdose supports as responses cause resource strain (opens original article in a new tab)

Critics in Saskatchewan call for more support for frontline workers as opioid overdose calls increase, straining emergency resources despite a drop in deaths.

• Saskatchewan sees a 32% drop in opioid overdose deaths from Jan 1 to May 31, 2026 compared to the previous year.
• Emergency medical services responded to 1,707 opioid overdose calls in Saskatchewan in 2025, a 550 increase from the previous year.
• Saskatchewan NDP MLA Leroy Laliberte demands emergency funding for frontline workers overwhelmed by rising overdose calls.
• Saskatoon Fire Department reports fewer overdose calls in May 2026 compared to April, with Naloxone proving effective and widely available.