The federal government has pared down the requirements cities must meet before getting approval to set up supervised drug consumption sites.
Minister of Health Jane Philpott announced Bill C-37 this afternoon.
"It's important to remember that the evidence is clear. Well established and well maintained supervised consumption sites save lives."
Philpott says five requirements must be met before the government approves a supervised consumption site: They must prove there's a need for the site; that community consultation has taken place; that an impact on crime has been considered; and that regulatory systems and the appropriate resources are in place.
Island Health announced last month that it is seeking federal approval to establish supervised consumption sites at Rock Bay Landing, and at Our Place on Pandora. A third site -- at the former Central Care Home on Johnson -- would be available only to residents of that facility.